Merrel C. Payne

Operations Analyst

Merrel C. R. Payne is a student-athlete pursuing academic and athletic excellence while preparing for a career in cybersecurity. He is earning a B.S. in Cybersecurity with a minor in Psychology at Florida International University (FIU), graduating in May 2026, after completing his A.A. at Tallahassee Community College (Dean’s List, Fall 2023).

He also attended Presbyterian College on a partial athletic scholarship and began his academic journey at The Bolles School and Bartram Trail High School.

A standout in football (cornerback, safety, special teams) and track (100m, 200m, 400m), Merrel has developed teamwork, leadership, and perseverance skills that carry over into academics and professional pursuits. 

His work experience includes serving as an Amenity Pool Monitor with Vesta Property Services, where he gained strengths in customer service, stress management, and leadership. He is Microsoft Office Certified with strong presentation and team skills.

Merrel is also committed to service and leadership, volunteering with organizations such as Feeding Northeast Florida and the Cara White Mission, and receiving the Leadership Mentorship Award from the University of North Florida in 2018.  He is passionate about technology and security, he plans to pursue graduate studies and a cybersecurity career, combining his technical skills, discipline, and dedication to excellence.