On May 16, 2025, the Mississippi Emerging Research Institution Council (MERIC) officially ratified its bylaws, marking the formal establishment of the council. MERIC represents eleven Emerging Research Institutions across Mississippi, including:
- Alcorn State University
- Belhaven University
- Blue Mountain Christian University
- Delta State University
- Millsaps College
- Mississippi College
- Mississippi University for Women
- Mississippi Valley State University
- Rust College
- Tougaloo College
William Carey University
The council was created to advance knowledge and innovation by fostering collaboration among institutions where research is not the primary mission. According to its mission, MERIC will support faculty and researchers through shared resources, strategic partnerships, and advocacy to help secure funding, promote academic excellence, and drive research with real-world impact.
MERIC will hold its first official meeting during the MEIC 25 conference at the University of Mississippi in late July, where members will elect the council’s inaugural officers of Chair and Chair-Elect.
By uniting diverse scholars and institutions, MERIC aims to nurture future leaders, amplify research capacity in Mississippi, and translate discoveries into benefits for society.
