Dani Merritt, 2000

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“It is an incredible honor and I am extremely grateful to be inducted. Thank you.”

“Don’t follow the crowd, follow the results.”

Following a path that went against her college major, Dani Merritt followed her passion and pursued a career in fashion. Proving to everyone that ‘when there is a will, there is a way’, Merritt launched her own company, Elusion Clothing in 2006. Against all odds and bedridden, the brand was created in her living room in Cleveland Heights, with her last $200. Merritt did not stop there! As sales and reputation grew, the once urban t-shirt company expanded into a full fledged menswear brand. In 2014, Merritt rebranded her company as EC77.

The brand has been worn by many celebrities, professional athletes, musicians and more. The brand has also been featured in numerous major television shows and films. What makes Merritt truly distinguished is not just her solo success in the clothing industry, but her desire to give back and encourage others to follow their passion. Merritt is a member of the Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network where she assists other entrepreneurs in launching their own brands. In addition, she is a strong advocate for mental health and wellness, encouraging others to forge their own path. She believes that no matter the circumstances, one should always follow their dreams, as you never know how far they will take you.

Education

Cleveland Heights High School Graduate

Current Occupation

Founder and CEO of EC77

Achievements
  • Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network Member
  • co-CEO of the Patient Wolf Project, a 501c3 that assists young men in lower income families with college tuition assistance as well as resources pertaining to their career goals
  • One of the only women of color to own a full fledged menswear apparel brand in the United States of America
  • The brand has been worn by many including LeBron James, Travis Kelce, Donald Glover, Usher and many more
  • Started the brand while pregnant in a bedroom with her last $250
  • Self taught, never attended fashion school