Dena Merriam

Dena Merriam is the "Founder and Convener of the Global Peace Initiative of Women, Ms. Merriam has worked to engage women in peace-building activities in conflict and post-conflict regions around the world. She has organized major international interfaith events and has built a global network of renowned women spiritual leaders. Currently, Ms. Merriam is working with the United Nations to organize a series of regional youth leadership summits around the world to mobilize young people to initiate efforts to meet the Millennium Development Goals. Dena Merriam is also a Partner and Vice Chair of the Ruder Finn Group, a global communications company. She holds a master's degree from Columbia University and has served on the advisory boards of the Harvard University Center for the Study of World Religions, the International Center for Religion and Diplomacy, and the Manitou Foundation." 

"Dena Merriam is a partner and the Senior Chairman of Ruder Finn Inc., where she works in cultural marketing, creative services, corporate responsibility, and with religious and nonprofit organizations. Ms Merriam has worked with many corporate foundations and government organizations on social and global issues and has been involved with numerous projects with the United Nations. A long time friend of Shumei, she works with the Shumei Cultural Foundation to implement a global communications program to foster greater appreciation for the arts and to engage dialogue between the spiritual and cultural worlds. "


 * Director, Interfaith Center of New York
 * Director (US Board), AIM for Seva