Merritt Scholars
Merritt is dedicated to building opportunities for more equitable representation within the affordable housing industry.
As part of Merritt’s Commitment to California Initiative we are expanding the Merritt Scholars program, originally launched by Merrit’s long-term CEO Barney Deasy. We will be increasing the number of scholarships fourfold and deepening the support of this program. This program serves as an entry point into the affordable housing industry, allowing students the ability to learn about the many career and development opportunities.
The Merritt Scholars program, started in 2009, was created to attract the next generation of affordable housing finance and development professionals.
This program includes a $10,000 scholarship for undergraduate and graduate students, and a meaningful opportunity to learn more about the affordable housing field via access to a mentor, fully paid attendance at local and statewide industry conferences, and engagement with industry leaders. At the conclusion of the program, Merritt may assist scholars in obtaining a job in the affordable housing field.
Questions about Merritt Scholars or the application process?
Email us at MerrittScholars@merrittcap.org
2022 Scholars

Alexis Johnson
Midwestern State University

Ali Day
CSU Northridge

Daniel Valverde Jr.
University of San Francisco

Jacob Boesch
San Francisco State University

Jonathan Dena
UC Berkeley

Katherine Caggiano
University of San Diego

Madeline Connelley
Stanford University

Monica Davalos
CSU Sacramento

Nathaly Borges
CSU East Bay

Nathaly Teran
CSU Sacramento

Natkarn Sandoval
San Jose State University

Obinna Uwakah
UC Berkeley

Olivia LaVecchia
UC Berkeley

Rebecca Swint
UCLA

Venus Meza
CSU Long Beach

Zennon Ulyate-Crow
UC Santa Cruz