2nd Quarter Review

July 2025

Kansas SHRM Summer Update: Big Things Are Happening!

As the Director of Kansas SHRM, I’m truly honored to lead this incredible organization. Over the past several months, I’ve been continually inspired by the heart, hustle, and dedication of HR professionals from every corner of our state. I’m especially grateful for the meaningful connections I’ve made along the way—and I can’t wait to meet even more amazing HR pros at the Kansas SHRM State Conference this September!

It’s been a busy and exciting few months for Kansas SHRM, and we’re thrilled to share some updates with you!

First off, we want to send a heartfelt THANK YOU to all our incredible volunteer leaders across the state—both at the chapter level and on the State Council. Your dedication, energy, and passion are what make our HR community strong and supportive. We see you, and we appreciate all that you do!

Looking ahead, we’ve got some BIG things on the horizon. We're especially excited for the first-ever IMPACT Senior HR Professionals Summit, happening just before the Kansas SHRM State Conference in September. This exclusive pre-conference event is designed specifically for executive-level and senior HR leaders with 10+ years of experience. Join us for meaningful content, valuable networking, and plenty of fresh ideas to take back to your organizations. If you're a seasoned HR pro, you won't want to miss it!

And speaking of the Kansas SHRM State Conference, it’s shaping up to be our best one yet! From nationally recognized speakers to breakout sessions that hit on today’s most pressing HR topics, this is the place to be for learning, connecting, and getting inspired. We’re still looking for sponsors and volunteers—so if you’re looking for a way to get involved, now’s the perfect time to raise your hand!

We also continue to be proud supporters of the HR Registered Apprenticeship Program, a game-changing initiative helping to grow the next generation of HR professionals. The State Council remains committed to expanding awareness and access to this program across Kansas—because we believe in building a strong future for our profession. Watch for exciting new developments in this area in the weeks ahead.

If all this has you fired up and you’re thinking, “I want to be part of this!”—great news! We’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to step into a volunteer leadership role. Whether you're a first-time volunteer or a seasoned SHRM member, there’s a place for you to contribute and grow.

Let’s keep the momentum going—see you at IMPACT and the State Conference!

Stacey Moeder, SHRM-CP

Kansas SHRM State Council Director

Connect with Us

Stay in the know about everything KS SHRM. Connect with us on our social media platforms! Whether you want to know about KS SHRM activities and events, see what SHRM chapters around the state are up to, or learn about National SHRM initiatives - follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to keep current.

Top 10 Reasons to Attend the 2025 KS SHRM Conference

Join us at the 2025 Kansas SHRM Annual Conference in Overland Park this September. Get ready for an incredible lineup of keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities with HR professionals from across the state. If you're still on the fence about attending, check out the Top 10 Reasons to attend listed below. Register today!

Unbeatable Value for Kansas HR Professionals: The conference offers the best value for any Human Resources Professional in Kansas, delivering a comprehensive experience at a competitive price point (as little as $500, max $1500 with room and travel).

Expert Legal Updates from Kansas Attorneys: Gain crucial insights and stay compliant with the latest employment law changes directly from practicing Kansas employment law attorneys.

Local Expertise on Kansas Employment Landscape: Learn from local practitioners who deeply understand and present on the unique challenges and opportunities within the Kansas employment landscape.

Relevant & Current Topics: The agenda focuses on current trends and topics specifically tailored to the needs of Kansas HR professionals, ensuring the information is timely and applicable.

National and Local Speakers: Benefit from a diverse range of perspectives and expertise, with presentations from both national HR thought leaders and local specialists.

Connect with Area Professionals: Network with fellow Kansas HR professionals, build lasting connections, and share relatable experiences and solutions.

Access to Local Vendors: Discover and engage with vendors who specifically serve the Kansas area, providing relevant resources and solutions for your organization.

Practical Application: The conference emphasizes practical application, ensuring you walk away with actionable strategies and tools to implement immediately in your role.

Investment in Lasting Connections: The conference provides ample opportunities to foster valuable, lasting connections that can support your professional growth long after the event.

A "No-Miss" Event: As a highly recommended event by experienced professionals, it's considered a must-attend for anyone serious about their HR career in Kansas.

Conference Testimonials

As the HR leader for our company, giving my team the opportunity to attend the annual Kansas SHRM state conference is vital. The keynote speakers share wisdom and inspire my team to greater heights. Breakout speakers share their wisdom as well, whether it’s about the latest compliance issue, trends, or just a new way to approach those “sticky” HR topics in the workplace. On top of that, HR leaders from across the state pour into them in ways I can’t. By attending the conference, they are also able to expand their network of HR professionals that will also mentor them. The PDCs they earn are like the cherry on top!

Mona Martin, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Director of Human Resources

HM Dunn AeroSystems, Inc.

I have been in the HR profession for 20+ years. In my early years, I did not attend KS SHRM conferences. Knowing I needed to enhance my knowledge and gain new networking connections within the HR Community; in 2016, I attended a KS SHRM State Conference in Wichita, KS. It personally changed my life in HR! The training sessions were informative and provided many key components I could take back and apply to my workplace. Starting in 2017, I began volunteering as well as attending the annual KS SHRM Conference. This has provided so many opportunities to connect with leaders and peers. Each year, I feel energized, equipped with information, and motivated to be the best HR I can be for my employer and my local chapter. Attending this conference has been a worthwhile investment for my employer and within my career.

Cindy K Volanti, SHRM-SCP

Human Resource Manager

City of Prairie Village

Introducing the First-Ever Kansas SHRM Senior HR Summit!

As the Chair of this event and a registered attendee, I’m personally excited to connect with and learn from other senior HR professionals from across the state! The event planning committee and I hope you’ll consider joining us for this event and help us turn it into a must-attend tradition for years to come!

Ashley Esquibel

Chief Administrative Officer

Envista Credit Union

Kansas SHRM is proud to debut an exciting new event built exclusively for HR executives and professionals with 10+ years of experience! This dynamic event will be packed with meaningful conversations, high-level networking, and powerful takeaways.

Roundtable Discussions & Networking Event

The Senior HR Summit offers something truly special—roundtable discussions curated by YOU! When registering, you will vote on the topics that matter most to you, ensuring every conversation is timely, relevant, and impactful. These collaborative sessions are more than just discussions—they're opportunities to uncover best practices, solve shared challenges, and walk away with a network of peers who truly understand you! On Tuesday evening, we’ll keep the conversations going with a networking event at Chicken N Pickle!

Compelling Speakers & Thought-Provoking Topics

We’ve handpicked two outstanding speakers to address real-world issues that many senior HR leaders face:

Janice Perkins

Deconstruction and Reconstruction of Building and Retaining Talent

In today’s fast-changing workplace, the old rules no longer apply. Janice will challenge you to reimagine how your organization attracts, grows, and retains top talent. This keynote will dive into redefining executive presence, aligning purpose with performance, and building a more resilient, future-ready workforce.

Jenna Bottolfson

Redefining Confidence: Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Even the most experienced leaders can struggle with self-doubt. In this engaging, interactive session, Jenna will unpack the often-overlooked reality of imposter syndrome among senior professionals—and equip you with strategies to conquer it. Get ready to explore, share, and reclaim your confidence!

HR Rising at SHRM25: Highlights from San Diego

The sun was shining in San Diego last week, and so was the energy at the SHRM Annual Conference & Expo 2025. With more than 20,000 HR professionals gathered to learn, connect, and elevate the workplace, it was a week full of inspiration—and Kansas SHRM was right in the heart of it.

One of the most buzzed-about moments? Jason Sudeikis—yes, that Kansas native—took the Main Stage with the charm and wisdom of his Ted Lasso alter ego. Through humor, humility, and just the right number of Lasso-isms, he reminded us that empathy, curiosity, and courage aren’t soft skills—they’re essential ones. In a world where noise and division seem louder than ever, his message was simple but powerful: “Rise above. Lead with heart.”

SHRM President and CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. challenged HR professionals to own the moment we’re in. We’re not just reacting to change anymore—we’re designing what comes next. He laid out a bold new course for our profession: championing equal opportunity, rethinking how we prepare people for work, and restoring civility in a fractured world. It was a call to action, and one that hit home for many of us.

Adding to the historic tone of the week, the Closing General Session featured a rare and memorable appearance by President Joe Biden. In a candid conversation with Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., President Biden reflected on the deeply personal nature of leadership. “Too often, we try to separate people into two categories: the work and the family. We say it's business, it's not personal,” he said. “The real leadership is all about getting personal.” His message underscored what many in HR already know: great leadership is about connection, compassion, and recognizing the whole person.

Of course, it wasn’t all keynotes and learning labs. Kansas attendees gathered at the iconic Kansas City Barbeque—the famous “Top Gun” bar—for a fun-filled networking night. More than 50 HR pros (plus some special guests from FHSU’s student chapter and their advisors) enjoyed great food, new connections, and plenty of selfie-worthy moments. It was the perfect reminder that sometimes the best part of a conference is who you meet along the way.

As we reflect on our time in San Diego, one thing is clear: the future of work is in good hands. HR is no longer behind the scenes—we’re out front, leading the way. Let’s keep the momentum going.

Check out some memories of SHRM25 in the video below.

The KS SHRM Employment Law & Benefits conference includes two days of Employment Law & Benefits issues. If you are interested in the legislative process that forms HR law in Kansas, you have the option to attend a special half-day session at the Kansas State house on Thursday morning, which is included in registration.

This conference is generally held in February. The 2026 date will be announced later this year.

SHRM Registered Apprentice Program

KS SHRM wants to partner with you to help you find new sources of talent for your HR team through apprenticeships. The SHRM Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) is a US Department of Labor-registered program to source and upskill untapped talent for entry-level HR positions in Kansas.

Employers get an enthusiastic new member of your team, trained with the skills you need. Apprentices get on the job training, knowledge building, mentorship from HR professionals, and the experience and education needed to pursue the SHRM-CP credential.

Email us our visit our website to learn more.

The Value of Having an HR Apprentice in Our Department

Bringing an HR apprentice into our department has been one of the most impactful decisions we've made. Not only does it allow us to invest in the next generation of HR professionals, but it also brings fresh energy, curiosity, and a willingness to learn that reinvigorates the whole team. The structured learning path ensures they’re gaining relevant skills while also providing additional support.

It’s a win-win. We develop talent aligned with our culture and values, and in return, we gain a team member who is growing in capability every week. Recommended to strengthen your pipeline, expand your team’s capacity, and make a real impact in workforce development.

Amber Neises

VP People & Culture

WSU Tech

Texas Flood Relief

Kansas SHRM stands in solidarity with our friends in Texas who are reeling from the recent deadly floods in Kerr County. As part of our commitment to supporting one another in times of crisis, Kansas SHRM will be making a direct donation to aid in the recovery efforts. We encourage those who feel moved to help to visit the Texas SHRM Flood Relief Resources page.

As one HR community, we rise by lifting others—and now is our time to show that unity in action.

Past Director's Update

Honoring Excellence: The Value of HR Awards in Advancing the Profession

Recognition matters—especially in Human Resources, where so much of the most meaningful and mission-driven work happens behind the scenes. Awards like the Kansas HR Professional of the Year (Trombold Award) and the Rising Star Award do more than honor individual excellence—they elevate the entire profession, showcasing the power of HR to drive impact, shape culture, and transform organizations.

Each year, Kansas SHRM invites nominations from across the state for individuals who exemplify HR leadership, service, and innovation. For the 2025 awards, the response has been remarkable: 19 nominations were submitted for the Trombold Award and 11 for the Rising Star Award. These nominations reflect the depth of talent and dedication found in Kansas’s HR community—from long-standing trailblazers to emerging professionals who are quickly making their mark.

The selection process is both thoughtful and rigorous. Over the summer, the Awards Review Committee will evaluate all nominees using a defined set of criteria that reflect the highest standards of the profession. They’ll look at each nominee’s contributions to their organization, their service to the HR field, and their ability to lead with integrity, purpose, and people-first values.

Award recipients will be recognized in a special ceremony at the Kansas SHRM State Conference this September. The event is a highlight of the annual gathering and a meaningful moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate the people who are moving the profession forward. It’s more than a ceremony—it’s a statement: HR work matters, and those who do it well deserve to be honored.

In the weeks leading up to the conference—and beyond it—Kansas SHRM will spotlight the nominees, sharing their stories, accomplishments, and impact with the broader community. By doing so, we don’t just recognize individuals; we raise the profile of the profession and inspire others to lead with purpose and possibility.

These awards serve as a powerful reminder that HR is more than policies and processes—it’s about people, progress, and potential. They honor those who challenge the status quo, who support others with compassion and courage, and who use their expertise to create workplaces where everyone can thrive.

Whether you’re a seasoned HR veteran or just starting your journey, the Trombold and Rising Star awards represent the very best of what HR can be. They remind us that the profession is full of leaders—quiet and bold, behind the scenes and in front—who are building better workplaces and brighter futures. And that is always worth celebrating.

Makala Navarro, SHRM-CP, PHR, CPM

Kansas SHRM Immediate Past-Director

Director Updates

Certification Update

Priscilla Abell, MBA, SHRM-CP

Certification Director

Earning your SHRM certification is a great success and an amazing professional achievement. With that being said, it is beneficial to ensure that you maintain the credential and continue to grow your HR knowledge.

According to SHRM, once you are certified, your recertification cycle begins the day you pass the exam and ends three years later, on the last day of your birth month.

The example SHRM provides is as follows,

Your birth month is July.
You take and pass the exam on May 3, 2025.
Initial recertification cycle start date: May 3, 2025.
Cycle end date: July 31, 2028.
Certification revoked: September 30, 2028.

To learn more about the recertification process and fees please visit the SHRM Recertification Portal.

Diversity Update

Unique Hiram

Diversity Director

If you missed the June 18th KSSHRM Diversity Webinar “A Call In vs. A Call Out” Addressing Bias and Cultural Insensitivity in the workplace and speaking out about issues that matter, presented by Crystal Aluko, SHRM-CP, Director of Inclusion and Student Success at WSU Tech, you can watch the replay here.

Save The Date! Kansas Inclusion Summit will be held on Thursday, September 25, 2025, at Prairie Band Casino & Resort in Mayetta, Kansas. More information will be provided soon.

Foundation Update

Tammy Bissette, MBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

SHRM Foundation Director

Tired of "education required" roadblocks? Ready to shake things up?

The future of hiring is here, and it's all about SKILLS!

The SHRM Foundation's Skills First initiative is championing a world where your talent shines brighter than your degree. Ditch the old rules and build a workforce where everyone has a chance to thrive.

Emerging Professionals Update

Slater Heglin, MPS-OL

Emerging Professionals Director

Keeping HR Students & Emerging Professionals Engaged This Summer

As the summer months come and go, it is easy for routines to shift and engagement to slow down. This season offers a prime opportunity to keep HR students and emerging professionals connected, learning, and inspired. Whether you're a chapter leader, mentor, or HR professional looking to invest in the future of our field, here are a few meaningful ways to support early-career engagement this summer:

Create Micro-Internships or Job Shadow Days

Offer bite-sized professional experiences that fit into students’ summer schedules. Even one day spent shadowing a seasoned HR pro can offer eye-opening insight into real-world practice.

Match Students with Mentors

Facilitate summer mentorship pairings. One call a month can make a big difference in helping students feel supported and connected to the HR community.

Involve Them in Chapter Projects

Tap into their energy and creativity by inviting students to help with events, newsletters, social media, or chapter initiatives.

Spotlight Emerging Talent

Use your chapter’s newsletter, website, or LinkedIn page to feature students or recent grads doing great things. Public recognition is motivating and builds community.

Students may be away for the summer, but that doesn’t change the need for influence. Let’s work together to make sure they feel included, equipped, and excited about what is ahead.

Sponsorship and Advertising Update

Candye Daughhetee, SHRM-CP

Sponsorship and Advertising Director

Game-Changing Support: How Strategic Sponsorships Elevate HR Impact

As the KS SHRM Sponsorship and Advertising Team works diligently to create an impactful year ahead, the organization is energized by a bold vision for 2025—one centered on powerful partnerships and transformative engagement.

Sponsorships and advertising are seen not merely as financial contributions but as strategic investments in people, purpose, and progress. Through these partnerships, KS SHRM can deliver programs that empower HR professionals across Kansas with the tools, education, and community support needed to lead with both confidence and compassion.

2025: A Milestone Year of Opportunity

KS SHRM has set an ambitious goal for 2025: to raise $150,000 through sponsorships and advertising. This effort comes during a pivotal time of transformation in the organization's approach to partnership opportunities.

Although the year began slowly, momentum is building, and early results have been encouraging. The organization is beginning to see the tangible impact of this renewed energy. However, continued support is essential.

Members are encouraged to connect KS SHRM with businesses or individuals who may benefit from partnering with the organization. Referrals can be sent directly to the Sponsorship & Advertising Director or any team member. Several of these personal referrals have already led to successful partnerships—KS SHRM is deeply grateful for that support.

Collaboration is the Currency of Change

Candye Daughhetee and the Sponsorship & Advertising Team remain committed to helping current and prospective partners identify opportunities that align with their goals. Believing strongly in the power of collaboration, she invites returning sponsors and new allies alike to join this movement and help drive lasting impact.

Now is the time to engage. Be part of the momentum. Be a Game Changer.

Workforce Readiness Update

Doris Queen, PHR, SHRM-CP

Workforce Readiness Director

In Kansas, workforce development efforts are focused on addressing critical labor shortages in high-demand industries and preparing the workforce for the future. Programs like the Delivering Residents and Workforce (DRAW) initiative, the Digital Opportunities to Connect Kansans (DOCK) program, and the Workforce Aligned with Industry Demand (AID) program are key components. These initiatives aim to provide training, funding, and support services to both job seekers and employers.

These programs and initiatives demonstrate Kansas’ commitment to building a strong and competitive workforce, ensuring that Kansans will have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the 21st-century economy.

To keep your eye on these and other initiatives happening in Kansas, follow the KS Commerce News Room.

District Director Updates

Amanda Cadle, MBA

West District Director

SHRM HR Knowledge Advisors: A Hidden Gem for HR Professionals

As HR professionals, we often carry the expectation—whether placed on us by others or ourselves—that we must be experts in every HR aspect from employment law to employee relations. We pride ourselves on being the go-to resource, the fixers, the compliance checkers, and the culture champions.

But let’s be honest—HR isn’t easy, and we aren’t superhuman.

At some point in every HR career, self-doubt creeps in. Maybe it’s a complicated legal situation, a gray area in policy, or simply the fear of missing a step in a sensitive process. That’s where SHRM steps in – not just as a membership, but as your HR superpower when you need it most!

One of the little-known yet incredibly valuable benefits of SHRM membership is access to HR Knowledge Advisors. These seasoned professionals are available to provide guidance, resources, and real-world insights on all kinds of HR challenges—at no extra cost. Members can reach out with up to 15 inquiries per membership year.

I recently had the opportunity to connect with a SHRM HR Knowledge Advisor while navigating a particularly complex ADA accommodation request. Within 24 hours, I had expert advice, applicable law references, and confidence to move forward with clarity. In challenging moments, SHRM becomes more than a membership—it’s the trusted superpower supporting you behind the scenes.

The bottom line? You don’t have to go it alone. You don’t have to know everything. And you certainly don’t have to second-guess yourself in isolation.

SHRM’s HR Knowledge Advisors are here for you. Whether you're facing a tough compliance question or simply want a second opinion, take advantage of this resource. When challenges arise, SHRM becomes your secret weapon, equipping you with the knowledge and support to tackle even the toughest HR situations.

Callie Lowry, SHRM-CP

East District Director

Being in HR, reviewing resumes and applications is an extremely common task. This TED Talk with Nicos Marcou dives into resumes and how employers can use unique application techniques to help them stand out from the rest. First, he discusses how stressful creating resumes can be and what is running through applicants’ minds when they are doing so. “Am I including too much information? Does this look visually appealing? Should I include my hobbies and interests? If I don’t include them, does it make me look not personable?” These are all valid points and help the reader to better understand some of the recommendations that he goes on to present.

Then, Nicos mentions how companies focus on having a unique and inclusive culture, yet their application process is standard like other companies. So why not make that process unique just like their culture? After all, this truly is the first glance at the company.

A few ideas that were given:

Include video testimonials to assess communication
Include use of technology – simulations, exercises, situational assessments, etc.
Online quizzes or challenges

Mark Taylor, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

South District Director

Why Networking Matters for HR Leaders

Let’s face it—HR leadership can feel like a lot to juggle. That’s where networking comes in. It’s not just about swapping business cards or adding people on LinkedIn. It’s about building real connections that help you grow, stay sharp, and tackle challenges with fresh ideas.

When you’ve got a solid network, you’re never really going it alone. You can tap into others’ experiences, get advice on tricky situations, and share what’s working in your world too. It’s a great way to stay ahead of trends, discover new tools, and even find your next great hire.

Networking also helps you stay visible and engaged in the broader HR community. Whether it’s through events, online groups, or just grabbing coffee with a peer, those conversations can spark new thinking and open unexpected doors.

And let’s not forget—it’s just nice to talk to people who get what you do.

So, here’s your nudge: reach out to someone new this week. Join that webinar. Say yes to the invite. You never know where one good conversation might lead.

Cindy Volanti, SHRM-SCP

North District Director

What is your Resilience in HR?

By being in Human Resources, we all have experienced tough situations, keeping a positive attitude, monthly, daily, and sometimes hourly demands, and providing clear communication to supervisors and leaders, just to name a few.

In the article, Challenges with Strength and Adaptability, by Emma-Clare R, HR Manger at West London Waste Authority, she identifies these ways in which HR can bolster Resilience.

Believe that change is an opportunity for growth and innovation. Don’t fear it, Embrace it!
Maintain the Power of Empathy. Active listening, showing compassion and genuinely care about employee well-being. (we are HR, right?)
Involve yourself with continuous learning and development. Stay up to date on industry trends, “we need to keep up”!
Utilize the Strength of Networks and Collaboration. Attend conferences, join your local and state SHRM chapters, get involved with like-minded professionals.

As the North District Director of KS SHRM, the last bullet is my favorite and provides endless opportunities for each of us to stay engaged, involved and energized to stay resilient within our workplaces.

Flint Hills SHRM

Flint Hills SHRM was honored with the Gold Excel Award from SHRM for its innovative efforts to enhance member engagement and chapter sustainability. Key initiatives included evaluating 100% Dual Membership Requirement (DMR) participation, launching a structured monthly HR Happy Hour focused on relevant HR topics, and actively supporting the KS SHRM Student Conference and the local college SHRM chapter.

The chapter has recently solidified a partnership with Manhattan Area Technical College (MATC) to bring a SHRM Certification Prep Course to the region. As a result of this collaboration, MATC is now a SHRM Education Partner, and the course will be integrated into its Tech+ curriculum—expanding certification access for local HR professionals.

In support of the SHRM Foundation, the chapter’s Foundation Director organized a fundraiser drawing for a Michael Kors purse, helping raise funds to support HR professionals through scholarships and resources.

The chapter awarded its HR Superhero of the Year award to current Chapter President, Adrienne Hayes. Adrienne shared her deep appreciation for the recognition and reflected on her involvement with both the local and state chapters. She noted the value of the relationships she’s built, and her gratitude for serving alongside a passionate, committed board focused on building a strong, sustainable future for Flint Hills SHRM Chapter.

Join us for a full day of HR learning on October 15, 2025, starting at 8:30am for our Annual Meeting. It will be an interactive session designed to help HR professionals navigate situations that could lead to legal action. Featuring real-world insights from an experienced employment attorney, this seminar will explore what HR should be doing on the front end to build a strong, defensible position if a case heads to court. Through case scenarios and a mock deposition, attendees will gain practical tools to better protect their organizations—and themselves. Don’t miss this eye-opening opportunity to learn what attorneys wish HR had done before litigation begins. Training will be eligible for recertification credits!

Salina Human Resource Management Association

This fun and insightful session by Taylor Schwartz, showed just how powerful social media and marketing can be in the hands of HR pros. We learned how to turn employee stories, culture snapshots, and even office events into eye-catching content that attracts top talent. From showcasing what makes your workplace special to carving out a unique employer brand, the tips were practical and creative. For example, how to adjust your message to the platform and generation you’re trying to reach. Bonus points for the ideas on expanding your candidate pool and reaching a more diverse audience. Who knew HR could be this Instagram-worthy?

SHRM Greater Emporia

Are you an HR professional living in or around Lyon County, Kansas? We’d love for you to check us out!

SHRM Greater Emporia provides valuable opportunities to grow professionally through a mix of networking, relevant resources, and dynamic monthly meetings. This quarter, our members enjoyed insights from a local Police Department Detective on negotiation tactics, a legislative update from Natalie Bright, and an employment outlook update from Phil Hayes.

Whether you're looking to stay current on HR trends or connect with fellow professionals, we offer meaningful ways to engage, learn, and lead in your field.

Mark your calendars now for the 13th Annual Emporia Area Business Conference this October.

SHRMJC

Do you live in or around Johnson County Kansas, and work or partner in Human Resources? Check us out! SHRMJC offers a variety of professional resources, networking, and certification opportunities. From monthly chapter programs featuring HR expert presentations (offering recertification credits), new member engagement opportunities, biz mixers, round tables, and more, SHRMJC offers a plethora of ways to connect, engage, and stay up to date with Human Resource topics and trends!

There is no better way to establish credibility, earn professional recognition, and network with colleagues than through membership in SHRM of Johnson County (SHRMJC). We hope to see you at an event soon!

SHRM of SW Kansas

In April, SHRM of SWKS was awarded the SHRM Excel Platinum Chapter Award. We are very proud of our accomplishments in 2024 and look forward to a successful 2025!

During Q2, SHRM of SWKS had 3 great chapter meetings with Paul Lopushinsky from Playficient, Chris Thixton discussing Financial Wellness, and Jimmy Brough and Miguel Rosales from BCBS of Kansas presenting the Medicare Timeline for Employees. There was great attendance for all meetings. We have some very informational meetings coming up over the next couple of months and we’d love for you to join us.

SHRM Topeka

SHRM Topeka is excited to host several amazing events this summer!

On July 17, 2025, we will welcome both Melody Rayl, Partner with Fisher Phillips and Dr. Pam Foster for our July SHRMinar! Melody Rayl joins us for our lunch time meeting to talk about AI In The Workplace: Non Human Resources. Dr. Foster will be with us for the afternoon for a training session on investigations called, Ensuring Ethics Through Workplace Investigations. Both are very timely, crucial topics and we look forward to this jam packed day!

We are partnering up with Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library for our second annual Not Your Average Career Fair on September 24, 2025. This is a unique career fair that is low-cost for employers and also provides additional services for attendees, such as resume assistance and interview preparation.

On October 16, 2025, we are back with our fourth DisruptHR event! This promises to be a smashing good time that you won’t want to miss!

SHRM Western Kansas

Wichita SHRM

As HR professionals, we often have a front row seat to the impact that child care issues have not just on our employees and their families but on recruitment, retention, and productivity. Wichita SHRM is committed to finding solutions that benefit all Kansans. That’s why we have partnered with Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas, City of Wichita, and Child Start offer “The Business of Care: Tackling Childcare Through Workplace Innovation Summit.”

Please mark your calendar and plan to join us from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Friday, August 15, 2025 at Botanica Gardens, 701 Amidon Street, Wichita, Kansas. This event will feature a keynote speaker, panel discussions, and table talk topics facilitated by seasoned HR professionals. The event is free but registration is required. You can learn more details here.

Congratulations to our recent award winners, Kayla Hedges (Wichita SHRM HR Professional of the Year) and Bria Porter (Wichita SHRM Rising Star)! Your dedication, impact, and leadership continue to inspire the HR community.

Bright & Carpenter Consulting: Team Transitions & New Additions

We want to share a quick update regarding some exciting transitions happening at Bright & Carpenter Consulting.

Farewell and Best Wishes to Amy Billquist

As many of you know, Amy Billquist has accepted a new role as Vice President of Communications and Events with the Kansas Chamber of Commerce. While we will deeply miss her incredible attention to detail and dedication—especially in her support of KS SHRM—we are thrilled for Amy and this new opportunity for her and her family. Please join us in wishing her all the best in this next chapter!

With change comes opportunity, and we’re excited to announce the expansion of our team with several talented professionals.

We appreciate your patience and support during this transition. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Warm regards,

Natalie Bright

Bright & Carpenter Consulting

New Team Members

Joelle Peterson

Events & Website Management

We are delighted to welcome Joelle Peterson, who will be stepping into Amy’s former role. Joelle brings over 30 years of event planning experience, having worked with church groups, schools, nonprofits, travel organizations, and businesses. Notably, she has worked with The New Theatre & Restaurant, the Overland Park CVB, and currently supports her family’s business, Bichelmeyer Meats, by managing their website and social media.

Contact Joelle at events@brightcarpenter.com.

Julie Haag

Membership Services

We are also pleased to introduce Julie Haag, who will assist with membership coordination for several associations managed by Bright & Carpenter. Julie holds a Communications degree from the University of Kansas and brings 25 years of experience in consulting, sales, and marketing. She will be working on both membership and event needs across our statewide associations.

Contact Julie at office@brightcarpenter.com.

Sara Baker

Communications & Legislative Support

Joining earlier this year, Simply Administrative LLC, Sara Baker offers specialized communications and legislative support. With a background in the hotel industry and a passion for helping professionals streamline their day-to-day tasks, Sara founded her company in 2007 to provide expert-level administrative services across various sectors.

Sara is a dedicated professional who values efficiency, attention to detail, and empowering clients to focus on what they do best. Outside of work, she enjoys time outdoors with her husband of 17 years, their three boys (a 16-year-old and 13-year-old twins), and their two beloved dogs—Gunner (a goldendoodle) and Tucker (a golden mountain doodle).

Chapter Websites

Our Kansas chapters are hosting incredible events across the state, including many virtual opportunities. You can click here to find any one of our chapters to be directed to their website, or you can click the chapter logos below, and find upcoming events.