Breaking Barriers: Captain Zeita Merchant Makes History as First Black Woman to Reach Admiral Rank in Coast Guard
Captain Zeita Merchant, an alumna of Tougaloo College, a historically black college or university (HBCU), is poised to make history during Black History Month as she ascends to the rank of admiral. In the 233-year history of the Coast Guard, Captain Merchant will be the first Black woman to achieve this rank within the division. As she assumes her new role, Captain Merchant pledges to serve the nation diligently while also commanding the Port of New York.
This groundbreaking achievement adds to Captain Merchant's legacy of making history. Previously, she distinguished herself as a Commander in the USCG Sector New York, where her responsibilities encompassed ensuring the safety and security of one of the nation’s busiest and most economically significant port complexes. Managing a port responsible for transporting billions of dollars in cargo and tens of millions of people annually, Captain Merchant's experience at both the operational and executive levels of the Coast Guard has earned her certification as one of the Coast Guard’s top Emergency Managers. This certification requires her to lead large-scale, multi-jurisdictional incident responses across the United States.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, Captain Merchant relocated with her family to Mississippi when she was in the third grade, returning to her parents' home state. Despite facing economic challenges, her upbringing emphasized values such as family and community service. Growing up in Jackson, Mississippi, Captain Merchant excelled academically, graduating as a Salutatorian from Lanier High School with aspirations of becoming a doctor. However, the burden of student loan debt cast doubt on her medical school dreams until she discovered the Coast Guard’s College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative—a scholarship program designed to support students in minority-serving institutions by covering tuition and providing a salary during training.
Initially unfamiliar with the Coast Guard, Captain Merchant saw the scholarship as a temporary opportunity to bolster her resume and finances while she deliberated her next steps. Despite military service not being her initial plan, she embraced the challenge, driven by her desire for independence and a fulfilling career in service. The three-year commitment required by the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative ultimately turned into a 27-year career, a journey Captain Merchant attributes to divine guidance and faith.
Reflecting on her remarkable career trajectory, Captain Merchant expresses gratitude for the opportunities that have unfolded, viewing them as part of a greater plan. As she prepares to embark on her new role in April, she remains steadfast in her faith and commitment to service.
Congratulations to Captain Merchant on her historic achievement, and may her tenure as admiral be marked by continued success and impact.
