Baltimore, MD, February 24, 2024 – The Cornell Alumni Leadership Conference (CALC) 2024, hosted at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, was a vibrant gathering of minds keen on exploring the facets of leadership and innovation. Among the distinguished participants was Matthew Merril ’26, a culinary artist and content creator, who brought a fresh perspective on the interplay between social media and leadership to the forefront of the conference discussions.
Merril, a current student at Cornell University pursuing Hotel Administration with a minor in Food Science, has made significant strides in blending his culinary passion with digital creativity. His session, part of the “Influence Unveiled: Cornellians Navigating the Social Media Landscape,” was a focal point for many attendees, eager to glean insights from his successful navigation through the realms of TikTok, Podcasts, and Instagram.
This particular panel discussion, which took place from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. in Salons 1-4 of the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront, aimed to dissect the strategies behind effective social media influence. Merril, alongside other esteemed Cornellians such as J.C. Dombrowski ’23, Stephanie Marmelstein Gitlin ’90, and Michelle Stuzin Katz ’90, shared their experiences and best practices for maximizing reach and shaping the digital culture. The panel was adeptly moderated by Macy Hung ’22, who herself is a notable figure in brand marketing and content creation.
Merril’s narrative was especially compelling, illustrating how one’s passion for food can transcend traditional boundaries through the power of social media. His contribution to the panel not only highlighted the essential skills for digital engagement, such as resilience and strategic communication but also showcased the impact of personal branding in establishing a successful online presence.
The CALC 2024, by bringing together Cornell alumni to the scenic Baltimore waterfront, provided an ideal setting for discussions on leadership, innovation, and the digital age. Matthew Merril’s insights into social media strategy enriched the conference, offering attendees a unique perspective on how to effectively leverage online platforms for leadership and influence.
His active involvement in various projects, including “Matthew in the Kitchen,” his role in the culinary team for Hotel Ezra Cornell, and participation in his acapella group, demonstrates the breadth of Merril’s interests and his multifaceted approach to leadership. The Cornell Alumni Leadership Conference served as a testament to Merril’s dynamic approach to combining culinary arts with digital innovation, highlighting his journey as a beacon for aspiring leaders in the digital era.
The “Influence Unveiled: Cornellians Navigating the Social Media Landscape,” panel discussion will be made available on-demand on the Cornell University Website.
