Dr. Shakila Merchant Bids Farewell to NOAA CESSRST, Embarking on New Scientific Endeavors

After more than two decades of dedicated service, Dr. Shakila Merchant has made the decision to part ways with the NOAA Cooperative Science Center for Earth System Sciences and Remote Sensing Technologies (CESSRST) Administration. Dr. Merchant expressed her intention to return to her lifelong passion for scientific research, community service, teaching, mentoring, and forging new partnerships.

Throughout her tenure at NOAA CESSRST, Dr. Merchant has played a pivotal role in providing essential administrative and management services to the NOAA Educational Partnership Program and Minority Serving Institutions Cooperative Science Centers (EPP/MSI CSC) community. Her contributions have been instrumental in fostering successful collaborations and ensuring the success of countless students.

In an event organized to honor and celebrate Dr. Shakila Merchant’s achievements, she expressed her heartfelt gratitude to her colleagues at the City University of New York (CUNY) CREST Institute, NOAA CESSRST, and the City College of New York (CCNY). Recognizing the significance of their support in her accomplishments, she expressed her desire to celebrate this milestone with those who have been integral to her journey.

Reflecting on the past two decades, Dr. Merchant described her experience as an incredible and enlightening adventure. Not only has she gained a wealth of knowledge, but she has also formed lasting friendships across the globe. She expressed her deep appreciation for the connections she has made, emphasizing the invaluable role they played in her personal and professional growth.

While bidding farewell to her role at NOAA CESSRST Administration duties, Dr. Merchant assured her colleagues that she would remain at the City College of New York, which she considers her second home. She intends to pursue her unwavering belief in the power of scientific exploration and continue working closely with her NOAA friends and partners. Dr. Merchant also expressed her enthusiasm for building new partnerships, engaging with stakeholders, and forging new friendships along the way.

Dr. Shakila Merchant’s departure from the NOAA CESSRST Administration marks the end of an era, but it also heralds an exciting new chapter in her scientific journey. Her passion for research, community service, and education will undoubtedly lead to further accomplishments as she embarks on her next adventure.

Dr. Merchant’s commitment to research, mentorship and teaching remains unwavering even as she transitions from her role at NOAA CESSRST. She will continue to serve as a valuable mentor and educator at the City University of New York (CUNY), where she plans to devote her expertise to nurturing the next generation of early career professionals. Her dedication to guiding aspiring researchers and sharing knowledge will undoubtedly make a profound impact on the academic community at CUNY and beyond.