Roosevelt University’s Society for Human Resource Management (RU SHRM) student chapter exemplifies a commitment to not only academic excellence, but civic engagement and community development. The organization, deeply rooted in fostering professional growth, recently earned the prestigious Superior Merit Award, underscoring its pivotal role in shaping future human resource leaders. Guided by its dedicated faculty advisor Dr. Carolyn Wiley, RU SHRM is shaping the next generation of human resource professionals through impactful programming, professional development and community service. Dr. Wiley is a professor of Management, Human Resource Management and Organizational Leadership at Roosevelt’s Walter E. Heller College of Business. She hopes to one day have the Human Resource Management master’s degree designated as a STEM program to broaden the reach of the program.
The RU SHRM student chapter is affiliated with the National Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the leading professional organization for human resource practitioners globally. With over 300,000 members, SHRM provides unparalleled opportunities for networking, education and career development. The Roosevelt chapter’s engagement at the national level has students actively volunteering at national conferences, introducing speakers and contributing to logistical operations. Dr. Wiley proudly shared, “Our student officers receive red-carpet treatment, which opens the door to professional environments and invaluable networking experiences.” Such opportunities enable students to build relationships within the human resource community while enhancing their leadership skills.
Academically, RU SHRM’s graduate capstone course immerses students in real-world HR scenarios, honing skills in decision-making, talent acquisition and performance management. Through exercises like crafting elevator pitches, students learn to address organizational challenges and present solutions that resonate with CEOs and hiring managers. “Employers want candidates who solve their pain points, not just showcase credentials,” said Dr. Wiley. This hands-on preparation equips graduates to excel in competitive HR roles and stand out in the job market. RU SHRM alumni have secured roles as human resource directors, Presidential Management Fellows and industry leaders.
RU SHRM's success is also attributed to its community-focused initiatives. The chapter actively participates in volunteer activities such as packing meals at the Greater Chicago Food Depository and collaborating with local food pantries to promote workforce readiness. One standout event was a partnership with Roosevelt’s Career Closet, which helped fill the campus resource with professional clothing items donated by Heller College of Business faculty members, further demonstrating their commitment to social justice and inclusivity. Dr. Wiley highlighted how such initiatives align with Roosevelt’s broader mission: “We recognize that human resources is not just about managing people—it’s about making a tangible impact on the community.”
RU SHRM stands as a testament to what is possible when students, faculty and professionals come together with a shared vision for leadership and community impact. Since 2007, Dr. Wiley’s leadership has been pivotal, fostering a supportive culture of excellence. For students considering joining, Dr. Wiley offered a compelling invitation: “Membership is free, and the benefits are immense—networking, professional development, and a supportive community that will propel your career forward.”
