Lieutenant Colonel Ivan L. Merritt is the Professor of Aerospace Studies and Commander of Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) Detachment 017 at Troy University in Troy, Alabama.  Colonel Merritt is responsible to the Commander, AFROTC for producing future Air Force leaders while maintaining good order and discipline, high ethical standards, and for promoting a positive image on campus and in the local community.  In addition, as chairman of the department, he is responsible to the Chancellor of Troy University to ensure strict academic standards are developed and maintained.  

Colonel Merritt is a graduate of Michigan State University and University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.  In 1985, he was commissioned a second lieutenant; a distinguished graduate from Officer Training School.  He wears the Joint Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster and the Air Force Achievement Medal.