Honor and hope: Nonprofit recognizes legacy of servant leadership
Nancy Merolla has carved a path for others to follow, leading by example and creating an inspiring legacy of helping others. Her community took notice, and much to her surprise, she was honored by the nonprofit she co-founded, South Florida Wellness Network, with a namesake scholarship, the Nancy Merolla Humanitarian Scholarship.
The $1,000 scholarship is for those who are facing hardships, including students in Broward and Miami-Dade counties who demonstrate a commitment to community service, volunteerism or acts of humanitarianism in alignment with Merolla’s legacy. Applicants from underserved communities or families, such as those facing challenges related to mental health, substance misuses, housing instability and educational barriers, will be considered.
Merolla is board chair and co-founder of SFWN. Susan Nyamora, SFWN president and CEO, has worked with Merolla for many years and expresses her gratitude for Merolla’s impact and dedication to the organization and the community. “Nancy’s selflessness and commitment to helping others has touched countless lives,” she shares. “This scholarship ensures her legacy of love and generosity will continue to inspire and uplift others for years to come.”
The nonprofit was formed in 2014, and it offers resources and encouragement to those affected by behavioral health issues and have lived experience of walking the path of recovery. Merolla and Nyamora are extremely passionate about helping others regain control of their lives.
Merolla shares that those with behavioral health issues hold a special place in her heart. She has seen first-hand how behavioral health impacts individuals and their loved ones.
“I hope recipients will benefit from this scholarship to support their dreams of working in their communities, helping them further their knowledge and education.”
“I hold this work very close to my heart,” she explains. “It’s an honor to be recognized for the efforts I’ve dedicated to volunteering for the past 10 years with SFWN,” she says. She shares that SFWN works to break the stigma surrounding behavioral health issues. This is why she says she is excited that, through the scholarship, new representatives will continue the vital work.
“I hope recipients will benefit from this scholarship to support their dreams of working in their communities, helping them further their knowledge and education,” Merolla emphasizes.
After 12 years at Synovus, she continues to encourage her team. In her role as community development officer, Merolla creates and introduces opportunities for team members to be more involved in their communities.
Jennifer Stimpson, Synovus community development manager, has worked with Nancy since April 2023. “Nancy's generous spirit shines through as she actively engages in the community, pouring her heart and financial expertise into every encounter,” she says. “She shows us how to make a significant impact in our communities by following her extraordinary example.”
Merolla’s history of community involvement includes organizations focused on affordable housing and individual road to recovery. Additionally, the former Florida governor, Charlie Crist, appointed her to the Department of Children and Families in Broward County. She served in this role from 2009 to 2011 and managed more than 1,000 employees and a $100 million annual budget.
Read more about how Synovus team members are enabling people to reach their full potential.
