Oakland, CA – Oakland Roots SC is proud to announce its partnership with Samuel Merritt University (SMU), a private university specializing in health sciences with its main campus located in the heart of Oakland, California. As the Official Higher Education Partner of Oakland Roots SC, Samuel Merritt University will work alongside the team to promote health, wellness, and community engagement throughout the East Bay and beyond.
“Samuel Merritt University is dedicated to building the future of healthcare through the development and training of critical health care roles for our community. No one uses their feet more than soccer players, not just our team, but all of the dedicated youth and recreational soccer players in our region,” said Oakland Roots VP of Brand Partnerships Andrea Lepore. “Training the next podiatrists, nurses and other community health workers is an important part of creating a healthy, sustainable region.”
Through this partnership, Oakland Roots SC and Samuel Merritt University will collaborate on social media stories and engage with the loyal fans and our community at Roots games to create brand awareness.
“We are thrilled to partner with Oakland Roots Sports Club, an organization that shares our deep commitment to community and health. At Samuel Merritt University, we are dedicated to training the next generation of healthcare leaders who will support the well-being of our vibrant East Bay region. Soccer is a sport that brings people together locally and globally — through this partnership, we are excited to further our mission of improving health outcomes and creating a healthier future for all,” said Dr. Ching-Hua Wang, SMU President and CEO.
About Oakland Roots and Soul SC
Oakland Roots is a purpose-driven men’s soccer team that seeks to harness the magic of Oakland and the power of sports as a social force for good.
Oakland Soul women’s soccer team serves as an elite pathway to pro soccer, providing a high-quality training environment while empowering players — one day at a time…one game at a time.
About Samuel Merritt University
Samuel Merritt University, based in Oakland and with campuses in Sacramento, San Mateo, and Fresno, is one of the largest healthcare educators in Northern California. The university is a national and statewide leader in building the pipeline of nurses, physical and occupational therapists, physician assistants, and podiatric physicians who provide care for thousands of Californians every day.
