Jeff Jacob honored with PayrollOrg’s 2025 Special Recognition Award at 43rd Payroll Congress

• News & Views

• Author By Payroll Office
• May 22, 2025

PayrollOrg proudly announced Jeff Jacob, assistant comptroller for Illinois State University, as the recipient of the 2025 Special Recognition Award during the 43rd annual Payroll Congress in Nashville. This prestigious award celebrates Jacob's exceptional contributions to the payroll profession and his commitment to advancing educational initiatives for payroll professionals and higher education communities.

Jacob, who has spent much of his career at Illinois State University, has held various roles, including tax specialist, payroll/accounting lead for HCM implementation, and payroll manager. With over 20 years of payroll experience, he earned his Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) designation and became a PayrollOrg member in 2016. In 2023, he received PayrollOrg's Meritorious Service Award for his outstanding service.

"Being recognized at Payroll Congress is an exciting moment and a significant milestone for me, both professionally and personally," Jacob said. "It is a moment of celebration and reflection. A true testament to the guidance, knowledge, and support provided to me by my family, friends, and colleagues. Without their contributions and encouragement, none of us would be here."

Jacob's leadership extends beyond his university role. He has served as a volunteer on the SPLTF Best Practices and Educational Institutions Subcommittee and as one of the SPLTF co-chairs. His efforts have focused on developing innovative educational programs that empower payroll professionals and foster collaboration between PayrollOrg and academic institutions.

"The recognition is incredibly rewarding. It reflects the passion and effort invested in my work and brings a sense of accomplishment and pride," Jacob said. "It is a reminder that our contributions are valued and impactful, motivating me to continually strive for excellence, share, and be a lifelong learner. It strengthens my resolve to mentor and support others in the community, share knowledge and experiences to help them and myself, and be a continual learner to achieve our personal and professional goals."

Laurel Serra, Director of Educational Services at PayrollOrg, praised Jacob's dedication. "I couldn't be more excited to see Jeff Jacob receive PayrollOrg's Special Recognition Award," Serra said. "It's been a true privilege to work alongside you over the years as we've delivered meaningful education to payroll professionals and those in higher education, an area especially close to my heart. Your unwavering dedication to this profession, and your support of others, is nothing short of exemplary. Thank you for everything you do. I'm looking forward to many more years of collaboration."

Jacob holds a master's degree in college student personnel Administration from the University of Central Missouri (1996) and earned his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation from the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation in 2000. His academic background and professional expertise have been instrumental in his contributions to the payroll field.

The Special Recognition Award, presented annually at the Payroll Congress, honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding service, leadership, and innovation in the payroll profession. Jacob's selection highlights his role as a trailblazer and advocate for excellence in payroll education.

The 43rd Payroll Congress, a premier event for payroll professionals, features workshops, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities, bringing together industry leaders to share insights and celebrate achievements like Jacob's. PayrollOrg, the leading professional association for payroll professionals, continues to champion education and innovation through events like these.

"Thank you to PayrollOrg for acknowledging and recognizing my work and dedication to the payroll profession," Jacob said.