Merchants’ 2023 Shining Star Revealed
December 20, 2023
Merchants Bonding Company is proud to announce the recipient, and the runner-up, of the 2023 Shining Star award. This award holds special significance at Merchants, as it honors associates making extraordinary contributions to their community through volunteer efforts.
Winner
This year, we proudly present the 2023 Shining Star Award to Doug Mercer, Territory Director of Contract Underwriting, at our Austin, Texas Office.
Doug has enormous passion for, and dedication to the organizations he serves - the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo and Go Rodeo Roundup Committee. The 19-day-long event raises funds for college & trade-school scholarships. Throughout his extensive tenure as a volunteer, Doug has taken on increasing responsibilities. The event he currently directs achieved a remarkable feat, netting more than $400,000 in a single night! A total of 18,000 scholarships were awarded in 2022. Doug’s involvement is year-round, on a near daily basis, with the support of his wife. Doug says his connection to the students is what drives his enormous commitment.
Runner-Up
Merchants also recognized Kyle Nielsen, Product Compliance Specialist, in our West Des Moines, Iowa Office as the 2023 Shining Star runner-up.
Kyle is involved in the community on several levels; not only does he coach through the YMCA, and volunteer at his kids’ school, but he’s an active supporter of the Eat Greater Des Moines food rescue program. Every weekend, Kyle and his family collect donated food from Trader Joe’s, transporting it to a community program catering to families in need. Kyle's active participation in Merchants’ Community Outreach Council, which raises funds for our focus charities through events at Merchants, further amplifies his dedication to the community.
To honor each individual, the Merchants Bonding Company Foundation has made a donation in their name to a charity of their choice. Go Rodeo Roundup at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo event will receive $2,000 on behalf of Doug, and Orchard Place will receive $500 on behalf of Kyle. Congratulations to the Shining Star award winner, and runner-up. Merchants deeply values and appreciates your hard work, dedication, and generous spirit.