The Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina announces the appointment of Dr. Melinda Merrell as the Foundation's new Senior Director of Grantmaking, effective August 2024. In her new role, Dr. Merrell will spearhead the Foundation's grant programs, working closely with President Donna Waites and fellow team members to develop and execute a grantmaking strategy that aligns with the Foundation’s mission and core values.
Dr. Merrell worked most recently with Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina serving as the Masters of Health Administration Program Director and Clinical Assistant Professor. Her comprehensive experience also includes over a decade of dedicated service at the South Carolina Office of Rural Health (SCORH), during which she led efforts to provide technical assistance to rural health care providers and communities across South Carolina. At both the Arnold School of Public Health and SCORH, Dr. Merrell played a hands-on role in internal grant writing administration, external community support, dissemination of sub-grants, and served on state, regional, and Federal grant review committees.
At the Sisters of Charity Foundation, Dr. Merrell will oversee all grants awarded annually, embracing principles rooted in transparency, trust, humility, and alignment with the Foundation’s core values. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Merrell to our team,” said President Donna Waites. “Her passion for positive change, extensive background in addressing systemic issues, and leadership experience will be invaluable as we continue to support and uplift communities throughout South Carolina.”
