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GOVERNANCE, OVERSIGHT & BEST PRACTICES
What is MERCplan?
MERCplan is committed to advancing retirement plan governance for public-sector entities. We focus on structural best practices, fee transparency, fiduciary clarity, and participant outcomes — with an emphasis on simplifying oversight while improving plan effectiveness.
Through research, discussion, and implementation, MERCplan supports public leaders who are evaluating how their 403(b) and 457(b) plans are structured and governed.
This resource library is designed for board members, superintendents, CSBOs, HR directors, and public-sector leaders evaluating retirement plan governance.
FEATURED CONVERSATIONS ON RETIREMENT PLAN GOVERNANCE
Public-sector retirement plan governance is evolving. Across multiple states, plan sponsors are examining whether legacy multi-vendor 403(b) structures provide adequate oversight, transparency, and efficiency.
The conversations below explore how different entities have approached consolidation, consortium models, and governance reform.
Consortium-Based 403(b) Governance
Southern Education Retirement Consortium
In this interview, leaders of the Southern Education Retirement Consortium describe how a consortium-based, single-vendor structure can improve retirement plan governance for participating districts. The discussion explores economies of scale, centralized oversight, investment consistency, and the structural advantages of consolidation.
Transitioning to a Consolidated 403(b)
Chicago Public Schools
In this discussion, HR leadership at Chicago Public Schools explains their transition to a consolidated 403(b) structure and the governance considerations behind that decision. The conversation highlights administrative simplification, fee transparency, and long-term plan oversight.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE
Built by a Teacher, for Teachers
Clear, honest education on 403(b)s, pension systems, and the historical development of supplemental retirement plans — so educators can make informed, confident decisions about their financial future.
LEARN HOW THE CONSORTIUM MODEL WORKS
What to Expect
This is a brief, informational conversation to explain how the consortium governance model works and how districts typically evaluate whether shared retirement plan governance is appropriate for their circumstances.
There is no obligation, no product discussion, and no expectation of making a decision.
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