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Sandra Merkel-DeJames, PhD
Innovator, Strategist, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist
Dr. Sandra Merkel-DeJames is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, innovator, and business leader with extensive experience across multiple industries and continents. She is currently the Founder and CEO of Trellis Eco Technologies, leveraging her 20+ years of leadership experience.2
Professional Background
Dr. Merkel-DeJames has a diverse and impressive career history:
Entrepreneurship:
- Founder, President, and CEO of Harmonize Strategy Group (founded in 2017)1
- Co-founder of Acclivity Technologies Inc. (February 2022)1
- Co-founder of Fieldhouse Holdings (August 2022)1
- Founder of K.I.D.S Community, Inc. (2019)1
- Founder and leader of NC Elite Volleyball, Inc. (founded in 2007)1
Corporate Leadership:
- Vice President of Innovation and Commercial Development at Metabolon Inc.1
- Vice President of Precision Medicine at Metabolon Inc.15
- Head of Regional Development (Americas Region) for Novozymes1
Expertise and Interests
Dr. Merkel-DeJames specializes in:
- Building and launching new businesses
- Leading transformational change
- Enabling growth
- Strategy development and alignment
- Innovation and commercial development
- Precision medicine and health technology
Her experience spans public, private, and venture-backed companies, as well as for-profit and non-profit organizations.1
Education and Certifications
- BA in Psychology from UNC Charlotte
- PhD in Biology from UNC Charlotte
- Post-doctoral training at the UNC School of Medicine
- Certified Professional Coach
- Certificates in Fundraising, Social Entrepreneurship, and Non-profit Strategy from UC Berkeley, Haas School of Business1
Athletic Background
As a student-athlete at UNC Charlotte, Dr. Merkel-DeJames was a NCAA Division I scholarship athlete in Volleyball and Track & Field, earning multiple accolades and finishing her career ranked 14th nationally in career assists.1
Board Memberships
She serves on various boards and advisory councils, including:
- National Advisory Board for the NCSU Institute for Emerging Issues
- Board Chair for NC Elite Volleyball, Inc.1
Dr. Sandra Merkel-DeJames continues to be active in the business world, recently sharing insights on topics such as women in sports and youth sports specialization through her LinkedIn profile.34
Highlights
February 7th marks National Girls and Women in Sports Day, a celebration of the incredible achievements and contributions of female athletes around the world. This day highlights the importance of equal opportunities and access for girls and women in sports, promoting gender equality and empowerment through athletic participation. It serves as a reminder of the progress made in women's sports and the ongoing work needed to ensure that all females have the chance to excel in athletics at every level. From grassroots programs to professional leagues, National Girls and Women in Sports Day recognizes the perseverance, dedication, and talent of female athletes, inspiring future generations to break barriers and pursue their athletic dreams.
Great article on specialization in youth sports. With only an estimated 1.3% of high school athletes earning college scholarships, the vast majority of athletes need to play for fun, social engagement, fitness, and love of sport. There should be opportunity for multi-sport athletes in travel/club systems. Most athletes, including elite athletes, can achieve their goals in a primary sport while playing multiple sports.
