1981-1991: Mary-Linda Merriam

Dr. Mary-Linda Sorber Merriam (Armacost) (1981-1991)

Merriam earned her BA, MA, and PhD in speech communication from Pennsylvania State University. Before coming to Wilson, Merriam was the assistant to the president of Boston University. Even before being elected to the presidency, Merriam had a connection to Wilson College through her mother, who was an alumna from the class of 1930. Merriam was inaugurated as Wilson's president on Oct. 3, 1981. While in office, she expanded the range of recruiting and the College's curriculum. She established the Continuing Studies program (now called the Adult Degree Program) that encouraged students of all ages to return to college for their degrees. She also established the Veterinary Medical Technology program and the Equitation program. A child care center was opened on campus during her administration.

In 1991 she left Wilson to become the first female president of Moore College of Art and Design in Philadelphia (1991-1993).