Rebecca A. “Becky” Merriner, MBA, SHRM-CP, PHR, CPLP
Rebecca A. Merriner ’01 has always believed that the one thing that truly differentiates one business from another is the people who work there. “Human Resources plays a pivotal role in the world,” Merriner commented. “Organizations may replicate processes, materials and structures of other successful organizations, but only the talent of an organization makes it unique and distinguishes it from all its competitors.”
Merriner has truly enjoyed her career path within human resources, because it is very fulfilling for her as she enjoys helping employees learn and develop into their full potential as well as improve their lives.
SU’s MBA program not only provided me with a good understanding of business concepts and a foundational knowledge essential for success, it helped me to learn about myself and develop personal resources that have sustained me through my career in HR.”
“SU was a wonderful place for me to continue my education. I was exposed to people from all over the world and walked away with ideas that shaped my life. I rely on the education I received from SU daily, and by making a financial contribution, it helps to ensure that someone else will walk away with that same experience. I donate my time because SU is an extraordinary institution that gives back to the community in which I live and work, so it makes me proud to still, in a small way, be part of SU,” Merriner commented.
Becky Merriner is the Director of Training and Development for Valley Proteins, Inc. Valley Proteins, Inc. is a leader in providing an invaluable service to global economies and the environment through the recovery, rendering and recycling of animal by-products.
Merriner is responsible for managing the training and development function by directing the design, planning and implementation of corporate training programs, policies and procedures. She develops and implements vital business and HR strategies, fundamental programs and processes that drive business results through effective leadership and change management.
Prior to joining Valley Proteins, Inc., Merriner was the Corporate Human Resources Business Partner for American Woodmark Corporation (AWC). American Woodmark Corporation is a leading manufacturer and distributor of kitchen and bath cabinets for the remodeling and new home construction markets.
In addition to Valley Proteins, she is an adjunct professor for Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) and serves as president of the Shenandoah University Alumni Board of Directors. She is a community board member for Valley Health Systems, member of the board of directors for the Shenandoah Arts Council and is a member of the National Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Winchester Area SHRM and the Association for Talent Development (ATD, formerly ASTD).
Merriner is the past chairwoman of the board of directors for the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber and past president of the Winchester Area SHRM Board of Directors.
She has earned the credentials of Professional in Human Resources (PHR) from HRCI and SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) from SHRM; Certified Professional in Learning & Performance (CPLP) from ASTD; Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) Qualification with the Center for Applications and Psychological Type and Consulting Psychologists Press.
Merriner holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Management & Organizational Development from Eastern Mennonite University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Shenandoah University.
Merriner lives with her husband, Jay, and son, Adam, in Frederick County, Virginia.