Merritt Martin

Merritt Martin is vice president, public affairs and strategic communications, and chief of staff, external affairs, for Dr. Patrick Hwu, president and CEO of Moffitt Cancer Center.

Most recently, Martin served as the director of public affairs in the Government Relations department. In this role, she advocated for the cancer center and its work before the Florida Legislature, the governor, the cabinet and local government offices.

Martin has been recognized by organizations across Tampa Bay for her achievements. She was named a Young Professional of the Year by the Tampa Bay Business Journal, as well as listed in the Business Observer’s "40 under 40" rankings. She was also named a Tampa Bay "Up and Comer" and "Business Woman of the Year" in 2018.

Prior to joining Moffitt, Martin worked as a legislative aide for Pinellas Rep. Bill Heller in the Florida House of Representatives. She also managed Heller’s successful reelection campaign in 2008.

Martin received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees of public administration from the University of South Florida, where she also serves on the Foundation Board. Martin is also the former chair of the university’s alumni board of directors.

She is a graduate of Leadership Tampa, Leadership Florida and Moffitt’s Leadership Academy.

Moffitt Cancer Center is Florida’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, a distinction that recognizes Moffitt’s scientific excellence, multidisciplinary research, and robust training and education.