Merrick was born and raised in Vermont, and remains “ever grateful for my experience as a graduate of Burr and Burton Seminary.” While at Burr and Burton, Merrick fostered his passion for competitive sports, including the basketball team, from which he made lifelong friends.

After graduating from Burr and Burton, Merrick earned his bachelor’s degree from Elon University and returned to the Northshire to join his parents Reginald and Elizabeth Counsell in their business, Briggs-Fowler Insurance. He later purchased and ran the company for decades, retiring several years ago. He now enjoys part-time work, skiing at Bromley, and golf at Manchester Country Club. He and his wife, Lisa, are avid travelers taking their RV around the state and Northeast with their dogs, Pickles, and Willoughby. Being on the Alumni Board, Merrick said, “I am honored to be able to continue my involvement with the school that built the foundation for me and my children, a school that continues to grow and exceed our expectations in preparing the next generations for the future.”