Brigham Young University public health professor Ray Merrill received the Beatty Award from the Utah Public Health Association on Thursday, April 3.
The Beatty Award is the most prestigious honor given to a UPHA member who has made a significant contribution to public health in Utah. Merrill has made numerous contributions to the public health field for more than 30 years.
From research to leadership, Merrill has driven impactful changes at BYU and within the broader public health community. He is a fellow for the American Academy of Health Behavior and the American College of Epidemiology, and a past fellow of the National Cancer Institute, the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the World Health Organization.
In addition to serving as a director of the BYU Gerontology program and Cancer Research Center, Merrill has authored 323 peer-reviewed journal articles, 14 textbooks, and three book chapters. He has given 150 peer-reviewed presentations and received external funding through the National Institutes of Health for two major projects.
As the director of the BYU Gerontology Program, Merrill supports faculty, staff and students in administering health care screenings for senior athletes in the Huntsman Senior Games, held each October in St. George. He also coordinates March's annual gerontology event, selecting speakers, scheduling the venue and promoting the conference.
Merrill’s research focuses on cancer epidemiology and aging, with an emphasis on life expectancy and quality of life among seniors. He also co-authored a book with Bill Rodgers examining theories of aging and ways to slow the process through exercise, proper diet, and adequate sleep.
Brigham Young University continues to benefit from Merrill’s leadership and contributions to public health. As he advances his work, he remains a driving force in education, research and community health initiatives.
