Dear ASHHRA Colleagues,

 

Last month, I had the opportunity to attend the Healthcare Human Resources Association of Minnesota (HHRAM) spring conference. I had a blast. I also got a really cool jacket! Thank you HHRAM. The theme of the conference was "Got Engagement?" Over the course of a day and a half, we had speakers share best practices and ask thought-provoking questions, challenging us to think about engagement in non-traditional ways.

 

During the first evening, we enjoyed a cruise on the St. Croix River on a paddlewheel boat. It was the perfect environment for connection. As we enjoyed a beautiful view, we engaged in a moment of fellowship. I enjoyed the opportunity to hear what was on the minds of these talented HR leaders. While some of the members were focused on bringing organizations together and others were trying to identify strategies to remain independent with a focus on strategic alliances, it was clear to me that, in every situation, our landscape is changing and we are expected to help lead our organizations through these uncharted waters.

 

During our time together, we also had the opportunity to talk about the CHHR and the value it brings to us as health care human resources leaders. I was excited to hear about how many attendees were considering taking the exam, and I am confident that some of the tools in progress, such as the virtual study groups, will help provide another level of support for those engaged in their professional development through achieving CHHR certification. Please click here for more details about the certification.

 

As I think back on my time in Minnesota, I reflect on the value in bringing people together to have these conversations. Not only do we have the opportunity to learn from each other, we also have the ability to "let our hair down" and work through our own challenges and opportunities in a safe, supportive, collaborative environment. In a position where we are so often "on stage," it is nice to have an intermission and the opportunity to be vulnerable.

 

As I look to September, I get excited about the opportunity to connect at a national level. The annual conference provides us the opportunity to collaborate, learn and work through issues. It is an opportunity for fellowship. I would love to have the opportunity to connect with you and learn from our shared experiences. Please plan on attending the ASHHRA conference in Grapevine, Texas. You can click here for more information and to register.