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The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has awarded a 2024-2025 Merit Award to the Ohio University SHRM student chapter for providing superior growth and development opportunities to its student members.
This award is presented each year to by the SHRM to student organizations based on their achievements in operations, chapter programming and professional development of members, support of the human resource profession, and SHRM engagement.
“The members of our SHRM student chapters embody the future of HR leadership, making it essential to recognize the pivotal role they play in SHRM’s ongoing success,” said Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, SHRM president and CEO. “The dedication and achievements of the Ohio University chapter demonstrate that the profession’s future is in capable and inspired hands. I commend their accomplishments and their ability to drive innovative programming, professional development, and a growing interest in HR as we adapt to the evolving dynamics of the workplace.”
SHRM student chapters have the opportunity to earn an award based on the number of activities they complete during the merit award cycle, the most recent one of which lasted from May 1, 2024, to April 30, 2025.
OHIO student and DHL intern Lauren Armstrong serves as president of the OHIO chapter and explained that the organization strives to build a strong sense of community by connecting students who are interested in careers related to human resources.
“Through the organization, I've had the opportunity to engage with like-minded peers and professionals, allowing me to not only solidify my career goals but also deepen my understanding of the HR field,” Armstrong said. “The networking opportunities and skill-building experiences provided by SHRM have been invaluable, equipping me with the confidence and resources to pursue my future career endeavors with clarity and determination.”
OHIO students gain experience, meet with mentors, take part in unique learning opportunities
The student organization currently has more than 60 members and has seen a 500% growth in engagement in the last year. Students in the chapter are able to take advantage of opportunities such as fully funded networking trips to cities such as Columbus and Raleigh-Durham, paid SHRM-CP certification exams, mentorship programs with human resources leaders and a wide range of experiential learning programs. The students also take part in alumni engagement events, take on leadership roles and plan community outreach events.
The outstanding work of the students is paying off, as the students are gaining valuable knowledge and experience, and the chapter is receiving national recognition.
"We’re so proud of our students for earning this award,” said Associate Professor of Instruction Shawnee Chapman, who serves as the SHRM faculty advisor. “They truly changed the course of the organization—from launching new initiatives to building lasting systems, their impact has been powerful. I’m deeply grateful for their leadership, passion and commitment.”
SHRM is open to all majors and is part of the Robert D. Walter Center for Strategic Leadership in the College of Business. SHRM’s mission is to equip students with the HR competencies needed to create better workplaces—emphasizing people, processes, and performance.
Fall Kickoff Information session set for Sept. 8
The SHRM Fall Kickoff Information Session will take place on Monday, Sept. 8 in the CoLab at Alden Library, featuring games, free pizza, and exciting prizes. Students interested in human resources are encouraged to attend and learn more about SHRM’s programming and opportunities. Regular SHRM meetings are held biweekly on Mondays from 5–6 p.m. in RTVC 281.
You can learn more about the OHIO chapter, including how to join the student organization here.