Nicole Merriwether, MSW

In her role of Research Associate, Nicole provides support for a variety of mixed methods research and improvement science projects, as well as practical support for practice-focused initiatives. She has expertise in applying an intersectional and equity lens to understand how each individual's positionalities impact the ways they navigate multiple interlocking systems of oppression. Prior to joining Search Institute, she worked at the Edward Ginsberg Center's Community Technical Assistance Collaborative at the University of Michigan, engaging in community-based research/evaluation and working with primarily BIPOC nonprofit leaders in Ann Arbor. She collaborated with community partners to enhance their capacity in data, evaluation and research in DEI, child welfare, youth development and education. In her spare time, she works in a dissertation lab called VIBES – Venerating Intersections of Blackness in Education and Schooling – developing curriculum for Black high school girls, conducting data analysis and mentoring undergraduate research assistants. Nicole has a BA in Psychology from Michigan State University and recently graduated with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan with a concentration in Program Evaluation, Applied Research and Political Social Work. Nicole is extremely passionate about creating spaces where youth are centered, affirmed, empowered and given opportunities to thrive and achieve their dreams.