Kerilyn Merritt

Director of Marketing & Communications

Kerilyn Merritt is a passionate communications professional with over 30 years of experience in sales, integrated marketing communications, nonprofit leadership, and public relations. An Illinois native and proud graduate of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a concentration in Integrated Marketing Communications/Advertising and a minor in Black American Studies.

Her professional background includes over three decades of sales experience, which spans broadcast media sales and national accounts management in the remodeling and new construction industry. With a unique perspective developed from working both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, Kerilyn has presented at more than 100 national and international trade shows, including live demonstrations at McCormick Place in Chicago during the National Kitchen & Bath Industry Show, reaching audiences of 30,000+.

She has also served as a CAN-TV cable television host for Africa International House’s African Festival of Arts, and as a red-carpet host for the Miss Black Illinois USA Pageant and the 58th Annual Ghana Independence Day Celebration in Chicago. Kerilyn’s media and marketing experience includes writing for websites, voiceover and on-camera talent for national training videos, and leading mass media campaigns for local businesses and national organizations, including Meals on Wheels – Lake County, IL.

Kerilyn currently serves as a Marketing Communications Specialist in higher education, where she combines her expertise in storytelling, strategy, and stakeholder engagement to support institutional goals and amplify the voices of students, donors, and community partners.

She is the founder of All About The Pen, LLC, a freelance service specializing in content creation, editing, and proofreading. She is also a Charter Member of the West Suburban Chicago Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) and remains deeply committed to service and community advancement.

An active member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated – Tau Xi Zeta Chapter, Kerilyn’s dedication has been recognized with multiple honors, including the 2020 Zeta Rising Star Award, 2021 Light of Zeta Award, and 2022 Zeta of the Year Award. She has served in several leadership roles, including Chapter Editor, Public Relations Co-Chair, and Military & Veteran Appreciation Coordinator through the Z-HOPE Committee.

Ms. Merritt is the owner of All About The Pen, LLC – a freelance service specializing in editing, proofreading, and writing publications. Ms. Merritt is a valued board member and previously served as Secretary of The Finer Alliance, Inc., 2020–2023. In 2024, Ms. Merritt began her newest role as Director of Marketing & Communications for The Finer Alliance, Inc.