As we jump right in to 2016, I know that we are going to experience another year of growth, change and partnership as we navigate the ongoing redesign of the health care delivery model. When I think about this important work, I reflect on how ASHHRA continues to be a key partner in these shifting landscapes, providing tools and support to ensure success of HR leaders and the organizations we serve. For me personally, the networking and connection with other ASHHRA members has been invaluable, along with the ability to share best practices and lessons learned, as well as the overarching camaraderie and support.

The CHHR certification has also been a distinguishing factor for me and my career development. It has allowed me to have important conversations with my leadership partners in operations, finance, IT and more about the critical role of having a higher level of expertise specific to the complexities of health care HR and how that knowledge contributes to each of our organizations’ success as we collaborate together in the design of the future health care space.

I have also looked to the learning sessions and the ASHHRA conference as a way to not only support my professional development and the continuing education requirements of my CHHR certification but also as a way to connect with fellow thought leaders.

ASHHRA could not continue to prosper without the dedication and work of our volunteers. Each and every one of you has made a significant contribution to ASHHRA, and it is greatly appreciated. Let me thank those board members who have ended their board service to ASHHRA in 2015:

• Norma Tirado, vice president, human resources and information technology/CIO, Lakeland Regional Health System, St. Joseph, Michigan.
• Jim Frain, SPHR, CEBS, CHHR, vice president, human resources, South Bend Medical Foundation, South Bend, Indiana. Jim provided a total of seven years of leadership to ASHHRA in a board capacity and continues to support ASHHRA in other volunteer responsibilities.
• And our outgoing Past President Maureen O’Keeffe, SPHR, CHHR, recently retired vice president of Human Resources and CHRO at St. Luke’s Health System, Boise, Idaho, whose leadership and vision has helped guide ASHHRA over the last several years.

I would also like to welcome our new member of the 2016 ASHHRA Board of Directors:

• Cathy Henesey, SPHR, CHHR, director, talent acquisition and workforce planning, AMITA Health, Elk Grove Village, Illinois.

Finally, I would like to take a moment to thank the committee members, the board and the ASHHRA staff for their contributions that made 2015 such a successful year.I look forward to working with these key partners in 2016 as we work together to Nurture Engagement in Shifting Landscapes!

Kristen E. Fox, MBA, CHHR, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
ASHHRA 2016 President
Director, Partner Integration
Providence Health and Services

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http://www.ashhra.org/