Terry Yau

Terry Yau joined the MERIT Health Leadership Academy in 2019 as a College Access Coordinator, where she helped prepare and support students in their college application journey by overseeing volunteers, teaching college application curriculum, and providing hands-on application support. Since then, her role has evolved to Program Operations Manager. Her responsibilities include overseeing MERIT’s programmatic operations to ensure that all school year and summer programming is successfully implemented. In addition, Terry supervises the organization of data systems and data collection to aid in program evaluation, staff accountability, and MERIT’s development. In addition, Terry has worked to synthesize and codify operations to assist in strategic growth for the organization.

The MERIT Health Leadership Academy is a nonprofit organization that supports Baltimore City high school students who aspire for careers in healthcare. Through comprehensive academic and career mentorship, MERIT seeks to empower students from underrepresented backgrounds in becoming healthcare leaders and change agents who advance equity. MERIT’s programming includes college preparatory courses, college admissions guidance, and professional summer internships. The organization aims to build networks between Baltimore City’s health communities and its youth, helping to connect scholars with professionals who serve as mentors, advocates, and career consultants. Currently, the program serves over 200 active scholars and alumni, many who are taking the next steps towards helping the health workforce reflect the diversity of the communities it serves.