As I reflect on August’s theme, I think it is a great reminder for us to pause and think about what we can celebrate and be happy about. I know I am very happy to be an ASHHRA member. It is such a pleasure to be able to associate myself with such a great group of health care human resources professionals across the country... it is something that makes me happy.

This month I have personally been fortunate to take advantage of one of the many benefits of membership, the ASHHRA HR Concierge Service. ASHHRA HR Concierge Specialist Ursula Pawlowski provided prompt and high-quality service for my request for assistance in researching a job description for a new position for my health system. Many thanks to Ursula and all the ASHHRA staff who provide support and tools for members every day. I invite you to contact the ASHHRA HR Concierge here if you are looking for a job description or policy template.

Please be sure to sign up for the inaugural Certified Healthcare Human Resources (CHHR) examination. The deadline for submitting your application is Tuesday, Sept. 3. Please don’t miss the opportunity to be one of the first to obtain this certification! Details regarding the application process as well as the CHHR Examination Preparation Guide can be found here.

As you express your happiness this month, remember a smile is a universal expression of inviting inclusion to all those you encounter.

Let us continue our journey to be the possibility of inclusion for all.

ASHHRA 2013 President

Vice President, Human Resources

Cone Health

Greensboro, N.C.