CHASE MERRILL
Eugene
Summary
Aspiring lawyer and public servant with a strong commitment to advocating for the rights and needs of others. Possesses a deep understanding of social justice issues and has consistently created positive change within various communities. Proven ability to engage diverse audiences and foster collaborative relationships to drive impactful initiatives.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Secretary of Advocacy Events
ASUO
Eugene, OR
09.2025 - 05.2026
- Planned and coordinated numerous on-campus events, including immigration and activism 'Know Your Rights' seminars, medication abortion fairs, town halls that contributed to securing the service on the University of Oregon campus, voter registration drives, and rapid response initiatives supporting students impacted by SNAP cuts. Developed an immigration resource toolkit and organized letter-writing campaigns for individuals in ICE detention centers. Collaborated closely with multiple ASUO executive departments and student organizations to execute events successfully, strengthening communication, organizational, leadership, and cross-functional teamwork skills while managing multiple projects simultaneously. Built strong partnerships with campus organizations by helping transform their ideas into impactful community-focused events.
Director and Founder
CM Equity Consulting
Portland, OR
02.2024 - Current
- Founded and managed an independent promotional, event planning, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI consulting firm, partnering with businesses, nonprofits, and educational institutions to modernize outreach strategies and strengthen engagement with younger audiences. Provided social media management and branding support for multiple individuals and organizations, increasing community engagement and visibility. Collaborated with schools and educational organizations to support curriculum development and advocate for systemic, equity-focused changes in education. Developed strong skills in strategic communications, marketing, project management, consulting, and community-centered leadership.
Board Member
Respond to Racism's Direct Action Committee
Lake Oswego, OR
02.2021 - 09.2025
- Facilitated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives by addressing racism through community education, advocacy, and engagement efforts. Participated in and moderated panels designed to educate and engage the broader community on issues of equity and social justice. Organized and led a fundraising and awards gala for the non-profit Respond to Racism, successfully helping raise $50,000 through sponsorship outreach to community members and organizations. Developed the selection criteria for the inaugural Bruce R. Poinsette Award, honoring his legacy as a Civil Rights Activist. Strengthened skills in event promotion, social media outreach, fundraising, and community partnership development by coordinating large-scale events and securing donated auction items and event support from local organizations.
Small Business Owner
Bejeweled Sweets
05.2024 - Current
- Operated a small business selling homemade baked goods and sustainably crafted jewelry at local farmers' markets. Designed and created handcrafted jewelry using donated and repurposed materials to promote sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion. Developed hands-on experience in entrepreneurship, business operations, product marketing, and customer engagement. Created and implemented social media marketing campaigns and promotional strategies that increased business visibility, customer outreach, and revenue growth.
Street Volunteer
Mercy Teams
Portland, OR
01.2020 - Current
- Collaborated with Mercy Teams Street Outreach to organize and distribute hygiene kits for marginalized communities affected by homelessness, helping provide approximately 250 kits monthly.
- Coordinated with community groups and volunteers to prepare handmade sack lunches and assemble essential care packages for individuals experiencing homelessness.
- Strengthened skills in community outreach, volunteer coordination, event organization, and mutual aid initiatives while supporting vulnerable populations through direct service efforts.
Nanny
Lake Oswego, OR
01.2018 - Current
- Provided childcare services for multiple children, including a child with special needs, while offering consistent educational, emotional, and developmental support.
- Managed daily responsibilities including tutoring, household tasks, and caregiving in a fast-paced environment, strengthening multitasking, adaptability, and time management skills.
- Gained experience in first aid practices, emergency response, and conflict resolution while maintaining a safe and supportive environment for children and families.
Swim Instructor
Emler Swim School
Tualatin, OR
05.2024 - 10.2025
- Certified swim instructor with Emler Swim School, teaching foundational and advanced swimming skills to toddlers, children, and adolescents.
- Developed strong abilities in working with students of varying learning styles, skill levels, and dispositions while fostering a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment.
- Strengthened communication, patience, leadership, and classroom management skills through instruction, student supervision, and individualized coaching.
Education
B.S - Political Science
The University of Oregon
06-2029
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Senior, Lakeridge High School
06-2025
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Graduate, Vanderbilt Summer Law Program
06-2023
Skills
Leadership & Operations:
Strategic Leadership, Cross-Departmental Coordination, Organizational Management, Multi-Project Coordination
Communications & Outreach:
Public Speaking, Executive Communication, Social Media Strategy, Writing & Editing
Advocacy & Engagement:
Community Mobilization, DEI Facilitation, Policy Research
Program Management:
Event Planning, Program Coordination, Volunteer Management, Strategic Initiative Development
Accomplishments
- Coca-Cola Scholarship Semi-Finalist, National Competition, 2024-10-01
- FYRE Award Recipient, UO Undergraduate Research and Distinguished Scholarships, 2026-05-01
- UO Stamp Scholarship Recipient, National Competition, 2025-03-01
- Justice for Black Girls Research Fellowship Recipient, Researching Black Girlhood, 2025-04-01
Timeline
Executive Secretary of Advocacy Events
ASUO
09.2025 - 05.2026
Small Business Owner
Bejeweled Sweets
05.2024 - Current
Swim Instructor
Emler Swim School
05.2024 - 10.2025
Director and Founder
CM Equity Consulting
02.2024 - Current
Board Member
Respond to Racism's Direct Action Committee
02.2021 - 09.2025
Street Volunteer
Mercy Teams
01.2020 - Current
Nanny
01.2018 - Current
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Graduate, Vanderbilt Summer Law Program
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Senior, Lakeridge High School
B.S - Political Science
The University of Oregon
Class Year
2029