For Steve Merkin, giving back to the School of Labor and Employment Relations (LER) is more than just a donation—it’s a way to ensure that future students have the same life-changing opportunities he did. As an undergraduate and graduate alum of the University of Illinois, Steve’s connection to LER runs deep, and his generosity is helping to shape the next generation of HR leaders.
Steve first discovered his passion for organizational behavior during his junior year. Encouraged by faculty, he enrolled in LER in the spring of 1981, joining a small but dedicated cohort of nine students. That decision set the foundation for a career spanning decades, where he became a leader in HR and a mentor to countless professionals.
His journey to success was shaped by LER and the Evan Scholars program, which provided him with a scholarship while pursuing his Bachelor’s degree. “Being an Evan Scholar was life-changing. It taught me the value of hard work and opened doors I never imagined,” Steve recalls. Now, he aims to provide the same kind of support to LER students through his scholarship.
Before joining LER, Steve gained hands-on experience by working in a spice manufacturing plant in Chicago, immersing himself in the realities of workplace operations. “I always spent time on the floor being with employees working side by side, showing them that I was willing to do what they were doing, to learn what they did and recognize their expertise,” he says. That experience instilled in him a belief in meeting employees where they are, an approach that later defined his leadership style. He also stated multiple times that genuinely listening to the employees you’re supporting is one of the most underrated and essential skills to have in HR.
Steve remained engaged with LER throughout his career, giving the commencement speech in 2006, mentoring students, and teaching change management with fellow alum Larry Pearlman for eight years. His experiences strengthened his commitment to ensuring students receive the best education possible. That’s why he established a scholarship at LER, helping students accelerate their careers just as he did.
Steve explained that providing opportunities for others, just like LER did for him, felt like the best way to give back and put money to work. The scholarship’s first recipient, Jacobi Thomas, who will graduate this December, has already proven the program’s impact. “Jacobi is incredible. We meet monthly, and it’s rewarding to see his enthusiasm for LER and his future in HR.” Some advice that he has extended to Jacobi and offers to all current students is to be business-oriented. Merkin encourages everyone to spend as much time as they can learning their organization’s business in order to be an effective leader and HR professional.
Steve’s story is inspiring when it comes to supporting LER’s mission. He believes that donating isn’t just about giving money; it’s about investing in the future of HR. Gifts to LER support scholarships, faculty initiatives, and program enhancements, all shaping the next generation of HR professionals.
“Every contribution, no matter the size, creates opportunities for students and strengthens the program.”
Steve Merkin, AM 83
For Steve, giving back is personal. “LER had a profound impact on my life, and I want to make sure it continues to do the same for others,” he says. “By supporting students, we’re not just helping individuals; we’re strengthening the entire profession.”
Steve offers a simple message to fellow alumni considering how they might give back: “You get out of things what you put in. Whether it’s your education, career, or relationships, invest wholeheartedly. The rewards, both tangible and intangible, are immeasurable.”
Steve is now enjoying his retirement after over 40 years in the HR field at companies like RoundTable Healthcare Partners, Renaissance, Cardinal Health, Cobra Golf, Allegiance Corporation, Baxter International, and Consumers Power Company. He and his wife Janice, a University of Texas alumna, College of Communications in 1983, and his daughters, Samantha, a University of Illinois alumna, College of Media in 2018, and Sydney, a University of Arizona alumna, College of Education in 2020, all live in the Chicago area.
The LER community is fortunate to have alumni like Steve, whose generosity and dedication ensure that future generations will thrive.
If you’re inspired by Steve’s story and would like to support student scholarship opportunities, please contact Cory Hatfield at coryhat@illinois.edu or 217-300-2056.
