In May, we celebrate the largest segment of our workforce with National Nurses Week May 6–12, followed by National Hospital Week May 12–18. Celebrating our workforce demonstrates another of our HR Health Care Leadership competencies... People Strategies... leading with our hearts, capturing the hearts of our people. What better way to foster a meaningful relationship with our organizations and workforce than by celebrating their contributions.

As I reflect on the theme for National Hospital Week, A Guiding Light for Changing Times, we as health care HR professionals must take a proactive approach to be sure we are providing support to our CEOs and organizations. We must continue to be that trusted advisor, modeling transformational thinking, and offering the possibility of best practices.

ASHHRA offers many valuable resources to assist us during these times of change. The concierge service, Ask the Expert, is a simple way to research best practices and innovation right at our fingertips.

Another way we can navigate these changing times is to convene diverse groups and key stakeholders to explore possibilities and be the guiding light for our organizations.

Lastly, attending the annual conference in Washington, D.C., will allow us to participate in wonderful learning opportunities and offer one another support as we face these changing times.

I will close with a thought about our annual conference opening ceremony keynote speaker, Byron Pitts. I am reading his book Step Out on Nothing. His story is truly one of inspiration. Byron has overcome many challenges to become an award-winning correspondent. We will learn much from him about leading through challenge and change.

Join me in our journey to the possibility of inclusion for all.

ASHHRA 2013 President

Vice President, Human Resources

Cone Health

Greensboro, N.C.