Lorie Merrow

Project Specialist

"Lorie" Eleanor Merrow has worked in International Programs for six years. As Project Specialist, Merrow is responsible for writing grant proposals and developing externally-funded projects that extend JMU resources to internationalize the campus and community. Often working in conjunction with faculty and other departments, Merrow has coordinated or directed projects for cross-cultural understanding both in the local community and overseas, budgeted at a total of over $500,000. She has traveled to Egypt, India., Kenya, UAE, Morocco, as well as throughout Western Europe. She also serves as a Designated School Official and Alternate Responsible Officer for international students, coordinates JMU involvement with 'Scholar Rescue' efforts and works on miscellaneous projects.

Merrow earned her BS in Education, MA and 'ABD' in History from the University of North Dakota, with French language minors throughout. Born in Connecticut, she has lived in North Dakota, Oregon, Iowa and the U.K., as well as Virginia. Merrow has worked in various sectors, including as college instructor, public school teacher, restauranteur, and stay-at-home Mom. These reflect her over-arching and long-term interest in the large questions of life, particularly, what we human beings are doing here on earth, particularly in the modern age, as well as why and how we pass on our cultures, especially through educational systems. She is married, with two grown children, and enjoys walking, reading, movies, puzzles and cooking in her spare time.