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President’s Message – September 2023

August 30, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Hello Lancaster SHRM! It is hard to believe the summer is ending and Fall is just around the corner. I hope your summer brought you some joy, wonderful moments, and fond memories. I know mine did. Although, like the weather, not every day is perfect. As I reflect on my own summer, I am reminded that life is a journey filled with twists and turns, impromptu celebrations, and unforeseen challenges. Moments that bring laughter and happiness and others that knock us off balance.

In thinking about the moments from the summer that make me smile, I realize many of my best memories of the Summer of 2023 were the spontaneous get-togethers, the visits with old friends, the laughter shared with family, and the magic found in appreciating life’s small treasures.

In a world driven by schedules and obligations, I think it is the unscheduled moments that often become the most cherished memories. The spontaneous gathering of friends, a Sunday concert at Long’s Park, or a game night at home, reminds me that joy doesn’t always require elaborate planning. It’s the genuine laughter, the shared stories, and the connections formed in these unscripted moments that are the best memories.

Of course, life is not all rainbows and butterflies, it comes with those stress-inducing moments too. Whether it is the loss of a job, a sudden injury or illness, or an unexpected financial burden, these moments have the power to shake our foundations and test our resilience. And my summer was not without those moments as well.

There were times this summer when I struggled in the sea of overwhelming uncertainty. I felt emotional and physical drain as I faced vulnerability and self-doubt. As I adapted to new circumstances, I found myself tapping into my resourcefulness and determination to navigate through the storm. I quickly learned that I was exactly where I needed to be for my own life circumstances. It was this realization that led me to a newfound sense of purpose this Summer of 2023.

I share my reflections with the hope that those who are facing their own adversities can find inspiration as they tackle their own shockwaves. And I hope those who are feeling caught in the chaos of life are reminded to cherish and prioritize what truly matters.

Life is a series of moments, some ordinary, some extraordinary. It is within these moments that lies our potential and our capacity to endure, adapt, and evolve. This is where we learn that setbacks are not the end of the road, but rather detours leading to new and unexpected destinations.

In a world that often glorifies grand gestures and monumental achievements, finding joy in the small things is a transformative practice. It’s a conscious choice to savor life’s everyday marvels, to treasure the connections that enrich our lives, and to recognize that happiness is often found in the smallest, most authentic moments.

So whether you are heading to the beach for one last time or staying home to finish some projects around the house, I hope you can take a pause, relish the last moments of summer, and enjoy the beauty of life’s sweetest, simplest pleasures.

Enjoy your holiday weekend! I look forward to seeing all of you at our Fall Legal Update on September 29th!

My best,

Jen

Filed Under: President's Message

President’s Message – Aug 2023

August 9, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Hello everyone! I hope your summer has been relaxing and you have had some time to enjoy some downtime with the ones you love. Personally, I love watching the fireflies and listening to the cicadas at night. Although when the calendar turns to August it is usually bittersweet. It reminds me that summer is coming to a close and a new season will soon begin. I try hard to cherish each beautiful day and appreciate the season because I know I will soon miss the warm summer evenings.

And yet the turn of the calendar also brings me joy, hope, excitement, and anticipation. I know the familiar sounds of school buses, leaves crunching, and football drumlines are right around the corner. I look forward to pumpkin carving, fall festivals, and the smell of something yummy in the crock pot.

I know many of you may be preparing to or actively changing seasons in your own lives. I have spoken to members who are sending their children off to college for the first time, some who are sending their kids into the military, and others who are still trying to help their kids figure life out. Other parents will be sending their children back to school for another year, maybe to a new school because of their grade level, or maybe it is the final year at their present school.

And for our members, parents and non-parents alike, many of you have shared seasonal changes that you are personally experiencing. Whether it is the new job or the search for something new, trying to buy a home, navigating the changes at home related to the life changes your spouse or partner, child or children are experiencing, the sudden need to care for your parents, the unexpected loss of a friend or family member, or that secret hope that you will be the person who wins the Mega Millions so you have the time and money to focus on all the things you feel like you really need to and want to, we all have seasonality to our life.

I do not know where every individual is in their life at the moment, they read this although, I know we all have our ups and downs. We share in the human experience. When I am down sometimes, I want to be uplifted and other times I want to commiserate with someone. When I am happy, I often have the urge to share my joy and be the person who uplifts others. And sometimes that means just listening. I try hard to match the needs of others, although I suspect I fail more than I succeed and so I try again.

Wherever you are in the seasonality of your life, remember you are not alone, others have been there, and others will follow behind you. Learn from your successes and your failures; we are all comprised of both. Share your stories, you would be surprised how others can benefit or may appreciate hearing that they are not alone. Finally, if you are not experiencing any personal or career change currently and feeling quite content, that’s truly wonderful, however as a human resources professional it is essential that we always remember that someone who works in our company or organization probably is.

If you would like to catch up with me to talk about this topic or any topic, I will be at the Lancaster Chamber HR Roundtable event on August 15th where we will be talking about Employee Handbooks. I will be presenting at the PA SHRM Annual Conference in State College on September 14th & 15th, and I will of course be at our Fall Legal Conference at the IU13 Training Center on September 29th. I sincerely hope to see you at one or all of those events!

Embrace the change of seasons, as Michael J. Fox says, “With gratitude, optimism is sustainable.”

My best,

Jen

Filed Under: President's Message

President’s Message – July 2023

July 10, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Over the past week, I have had some time to reflect on two recent, significant American holidays – Juneteenth and the 4th of July.  I have been contemplating these two holidays and their relationship to leadership.  How do we as citizens and leaders connect the spirit of intentions from these monumental events and relate their purpose to the present day?   

In many of our workplaces these holidays are recognized with decorations, social media postings, emails, and days off from work, but what do these days really mean, and are these activities enough to drive systemic change? 

The Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776, during a time when the American colonies sought independence from British rule.  From a historical perspective and context, it was a radical and progressive document.  To outline the objections against the British monarchy and proclaim the believed fundamental rights of individuals was truly revolutionary.   

The Declaration of Independence states, “all men are created equal” and have the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  While these ideals are still celebrated today, the language of the document and context of the time is indicative of gender inequality and how deeply ingrained slavery still was at the time of its adoption.   

Juneteenth marks the date in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, more than two years after the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation.  The delayed enforcement of emancipation highlights the continued struggle for equality faced by non-white races and the gap between the principles of the Declaration and the lived experiences of those enslaved. 

Progress can be slow.  It would take until 1870 for black men to obtain the right to vote and until 1920 for women to receive the same right.  So how can leaders and HR professionals interpret the words of the Declaration and the actions of Juneteenth to embrace the spirit of universal equality regardless of race, gender, religion, or any other characteristic? 

Juneteenth and the 4th of July are reminders of the ongoing struggle for freedom and equality.  They serve as reminders of the continuous work required of leaders to ensure that the promises of liberty and equality are extended to all individuals, regardless of their race or background.  

The Declaration of Independence was a challenge to injustices and assertation of the right to self-governance.  Juneteenth was a milestone in the fight for civil rights, humanity, and the inherent worth of all people.  I think we must remember that our work in DEI is never finished.  It is a journey that will continue to evolve to reflect changing societal values and a broader understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion.  I believe we can draw inspiration from the spirit of these holidays and continue to address systemic injustices and inequalities that persist in society and our workplaces today.  

I hope these past holidays have given you the inspiration to make meaningful changes as they have for me.  I also hope you are all taking some time to enjoy your summer with your family and friends.  I look forward to seeing you on July 11th for our panel discussion about neurodiversity! 

Sincerely, 

Jen 

Filed Under: President's Message

HR 101 and B.Y.O. Lunch & Learn Dates

June 7, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Created and Hosted by the Government Affairs Committee

Join us at the Workforce Development Board for FREE HR related facilitated discussions from 12 pm to 1 pm. Two series with the same initiative; Provide timely policy and legal updates to the LSHRM membership.

B.Y.O. Lunch & Learn (formally Brown Bag Lunches) programs are facilitated with 15/20 mins of education/presentation followed by open discussion. Topics will be decided upon closer to event date as policies become relevant.

  • October 19th – Topic TBD

HR 101 Series consists of 6 sessions (1.5 year blocks). This series is structured around the “Life of an Employee.” Whether you are a new HR professional or seasoned, we invite you to join the conversation.

  • September 21st – Hiring Process
  • November 16th – Wage & Hour

Filed Under: House Favorites

SHRM recently awarded Lancaster SHRM its prestigious EXCEL Platinum Award for the Lancaster SHRM accomplishments in 2022.  

June 7, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Lancaster SHRM Awarded  

For Elevating Human Resources, Improving Workplaces  

Lancaster, PA, May 22, 2023 — SHRM recently awarded Lancaster SHRM its prestigious EXCEL Platinum Award for the Lancaster SHRM accomplishments in 2022.  

The EXCEL award is given to state councils and chapters to recognize major accomplishments, strategic activities, and tactical initiatives that elevate the profession of human resources.  The Platinum Award is the highest honor a local chapter can receive in recognition for their efforts. 

“SHRM’s impact on the world of work is due to the dedication and efforts of our chapters and state councils Lancaster SHRM. “The Platinum EXCEL Award is not only a celebration of the great work done by Lancaster SHRM, it’s also recognition of their focus and determination to cause the effect to make great workplaces”, said Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, president, and chief executive officer of SHRM.  “Their HR leadership is exemplary.” 

The EXCEL Award can be earned at four levels: bronze, silver, gold and platinum. Each level has a prescribed set of requirements and accomplishments that must be met. Lancaster SHRM will receive recognition in SHRM publications and at conferences, a logo to display on its website, and information to share with its members about the significance of this award.  

In 2022, Lancaster SHRM accomplished five (5) major initiatives focused on Advancing the Human Resources Profession, Serving Human Resources Professionals, Enhancing the SHRM Community, and Growing and Retaining Membership.  One of the recognized initiatives was the LSHRM intentional connection and collaboration with local organizations to increase community involvement and continue to be recognized as the local leader on HR content.  

By partnering with local organizations that exhibited advanced DEI efforts and focused on underserved community member, LSHRM’s DEI Committee was able to host monthly programs in a collaborative effort with representatives from the United Way of Lancaster County, Lancaster YWCA, Spanish American Civics Association, Lancaster LGBTQ+ Coalition, Church World Services, and Occupational Vocational Rehabilitation. 

Lancaster SHRM is a professional organization focused on the professional development of individual members, and the increase of public awareness of human resource management as a valuable profession with recognized standards of practice. With over 400 members representing more than 100 organizations, Lancaster SHRM continues to be an excellent resource for networking and the exchange of information among human resource professionals in Lancaster County for over 60 years. 

Lancaster SHRM is an affiliate chapter of the Society of Human Resource Management (SHRM). SHRM is the world’s largest professional membership organization dedicated exclusively to the advancement of human resource management. 

For more information about Lancaster SHRM visit lancastershrm.org. 

About SHRM  

SHRM creates better workplaces where employers and employees thrive together. As the voice of all things work, workers and the workplace, SHRM is the foremost expert, convener and thought leader on issues impacting today’s evolving workplaces. With nearly 325,000 members in 165 countries, SHRM impacts the lives of more than 235 million workers and families globally. Learn more at SHRM.org. 

Media: For more information, contact Edward Burke, at Edward.Burke@shrm.org or 703-535-6036. 

Filed Under: Uncategorized

President’s Message – June 2023

June 7, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Hello LSHRM Community!  As the school year winds down and the graduation parties and weddings kick into gear, I hope your summer is off to a wonderful start!  I know I am enjoying the longer days, the warm sunlight, and the blooming flowers.  Even though we did not have much of a winter this year, every year the change of seasons fills me with appreciation for the new season even more. 

During the month of May, I experienced a season of personal growth.  I attended the Racial Equity Institute series hosted by the YWCA Lancaster.  It was a 3-week class on Tuesday nights, each session was 2 hours in length.  I was unsure of what I would learn, yet I was confident I would leave the series more educated than when I started.  Wow, I was right about that! 

Along with approximately 20 other members of the Lancaster County community, we were guided on a journey of learning in a safe space about topics that can feel uncomfortable, frustrating, anger-inducing, and confusing.  We talked about race, physical & mental ability and disability, gender, sex, identity, expression, attraction, and sexual orientation. We discussed concepts such as privilege, power, fragility, intersectionality, equality, racism, discrimination, and oppression.  

The team at the YWCA Lancaster led us beautifully!  They engaged participants, encouraged dialogue, sought out questions, and reframed perspectives.  I would strongly encourage anyone to attend any of the multiple educational programs, meet-up groups, and gatherings the YWCA Lancaster has to offer!  The series was well worth the time and commitment. 

I share this with you because as you know, June celebrates Juneteenth and Pride month.  As I reflect on the class I just completed and the new friends I made, I was contemplating what Juneteenth and Pride month means to me and how HR professionals can recognize both in the workplace. 

Here is what I determined, to quote one of our instructors from the YWCA – “Call people into the conversation, instead of calling people out.”  He was saying there is room for everyone at the DEI table. When we focus on relationships over shame we will create a more inclusive environment for all.  So to begin to help make a shift in mindsets, culture, or behavior in our workplaces our job as HR leaders is to provide the opportunity to others in our organization for education, awareness, and an invitation to a conversation.   

We all have multiple identities and our DEI events at work can celebrate our individual and collective, diverse, unique, and different perspectives together in one space. I think in doing so, we can create environments where regardless of the day or month, each and every day people can feel comfortable to be their authentic and complex selves at work. 

I hope this summer season brings each of you what you are hoping for and sprinkles in something a little bit better – whatever that may be, however you define it. 

Be safe, be happy, be healthy!  I look forward to seeing all of you again soon! 

My best, 

Jen 

Helpful tips: Downloadable PDF

It is not easy to create ideas to engage people at work.  Here are some ideas to celebrate or recognize communities with your team members: 

  1. Host a DEI workshop, and invite employees, customers, and/or community members. 
  1. Hire an LGBTQ+, veteran, DEI, immigrant, disabled, formerly incarcerated, etc. speaker.
  1. Donate or volunteer to or with a charity of an identified group or organization as a company or department to show active support.
  1. Evaluate your discrimination & diversity policies, handbook & job description language. 
  1. Conduct a lunch and learn on an awareness or socially relevant topic every month or quarter. 
  1. Host a cookout/movie night to watch and discuss a film related to Juneteenth or Pride month.  
  1. Create an online or in-person book club celebrating authors representing marginalized communities.
  1. Decorate the office, your workspace, or change your Zoom background to celebrate or recognize, create awareness.
  1. Share social media posts, articles, and recognition.  Engage your co-workers with posts & comments. 
  1. Create quizzes for each monthly calendar celebration. 

Filed Under: President's Message

June Slides

June 5, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Imprinting The Creative Process At Work And Beyond with Loryn Spangler-Jones

Imprinting-Creativity-in-the-Workplace-and-Beyond-AutosavedDownload

Filed Under: Past Presentations

About Our Panelists:

June 2, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Craig Single is the VP of Talent Analytics and Acquisition at SOCi, Inc., a marketing technology SaaS business.  Previously he served in a similar role at Xactly Corp and Vertex, Inc., a publicly traded SaaS company.  At Vertex he led the creation and launch of their Neurodiversity hiring program and helped for a regional non-profit, Neurodiversity Employment Network.  Prior to Vertex, Craig lead Talent Acquisition for a top 20 national public accounting and consulting firm.  Before his corporate career he worked in higher education and co-op services.  He also enjoyed being a part of a SaaS, at a Dot Com, as a sales leader.  He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Psychology. 

Linda Behmke is currently an Employee Experience Manager at Quest Diagnostics, and leads their disability inclusion Employee Business Network, DiverseAbilities.  Linda has been with Quest for 23 years in various HR roles over the years including Recruiting, HR Generalist, Project Manager, Corporate Engagement and HR Compliance Manager.  Throughout the years she has worked closely with Inclusion & Diversity helping to set up and oversea carious Employee Business Networks and handling related reports and surveys.  The DiverseAbilities EBN had a successful Autism-led hiring initiative for several years.  Linda has been a disability advocate since childhood. 

Dr. Kristin Austin is a lover of learning and unlearning.  Dr. Austin’s goal is to catalyze individuals and structures to question “Who is at the table?  Who is missing from the able? For whom was the table built? And who is unaware that the table exists?”  Dr. Austin has pursued answers to this question via 19+ years of administrative and faculty higher education roles domestically and internationally, as well as by leading organizations and teams through equity, inclusion, and belonging-oriented education.  Currently, Dr. Austin serves as Director of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access at Rewriting Code, Inc., a national not-for-profit organization dedicated to retaining undergraduate and graduate college women in technology majors to disrupt and dismantle racial and gender inequality in the technology sector.  Dr. Austin holds a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership & Administration, a Professional Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, A Master’s degree in Counseling, and a bachelor’s degree in Social Work.   

Janet Potts is a Sr. HR Business Partner for Suvoda, a global clinical trials technology company, and an HR Advisor for Weavers Way, a natural food Co-op in the Philly area. She is a passionate people strategist with a flair for blending human-centered decisions and legal best practices. In her 11+ years in HR, she has tackled all the People topics, from day-to-day processes to big picture strategies. She is especially passionate about the difference ‘good’ HR can make for the lives of employees.  

Suzanne Gleason is a dynamic talent acquisition leader with more than 15 years of industry experience. As Senior Vice President of Professional Services, she is responsible for business and talent development. Suzanne’s knowledge of human capital management, operational excellence, strategic agility, and change management led her to firstPRO. She is the recipient of the 2022 Founder’s Award, This prestigious award recognizes a past president of Greater Valley Forge Human Resource Association who has made outstanding leadership contributions to the chapter and the HR profession. In addition, she is a past winner of the Delaware Valley HR Consultant of the year award. 

Filed Under: Today's Specials

President’s Message – May 2023

May 9, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

In his book, The One Minute Manager, Ken Blanchard shares that “Feedback is the breakfast of champions.” Many of us in HR are familiar with that quote or have studied the concept of feedback before. We recognize that feedback is valuable and often encourage our team members, leaders, and managers to provide more consistent feedback. Feedback, however, can feel like a double-edged sword.

Sheila Heen and Douglas Stone explain in their book, Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well that feedback is rooted in two fundamental human needs – our need to get better and our need to feel accepted, respected, and loved. When I think about feedback as a concept, it makes perfect sense. I grasp the knowledge and I am confident I have improved over the years in my ability to apply the best practices of providing feedback to others. Where I struggle (and I suspect I am not alone) is in receiving feedback.

In thinking about the types of feedback, the positive, appreciative feedback feels good. The feedback that feels more critical or uncomfortable is the coaching or evaluation kind. This is especially true for me when I have worked hard on a task or project only to learn that I did not meet the expectations of others. Even though I asked for their thoughts, it hurts to know my time and efforts did not hit the mark.

Learning that what I thought I did well, from someone else’s point of view, was considered “less than” and quickly stirs a myriad of emotions. I can experience self-doubt, frustration, anger, hurt, shame, disappointment, annoyance, and sadness (to name a few). It can take me several days to process what I have heard and learn from the experience. While I often have found that at a future point, the feedback has resulted in my growth or improvement, the process continues to be challenging.

I share all of this as some of the comments we received on the Spring Conference survey were more of the coaching or evaluation kind. I know how hard and tirelessly our volunteers worked to assemble a day they felt would be meaningful and valuable for attendees. I know how much effort our presenters put into their talks to try to meet the varying needs of the audience. I also know when you run events, things happen that are out of your control or are unexpected.

Through my personal development journey, I have learned that regardless of the type of feedback, who delivers it, or the forum in which it is shared, there is always a takeaway which will help me grow. That knowledge has evolved into an appreciation as I have recognized that feedback comes from a place of caring. So, in that vein I want to say thank you to everyone who cares about the success of LSHRM. By sharing your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions we will be able to continue to amplify what we do well and enhance our opportunities for growth and continuously enrich our programs and offerings.

Thank you to our volunteers and presenters for your commitment to our members and dedication to adding value to others. I believe in the people who comprise our organization and with your feedback I am confident we will continuously evolve and grow to meet the needs of HR professionals in Lancaster County.

With sincere gratitude;

Jen

LSHRM President 2023

Filed Under: President's Message

President’s Message – April 2023

May 9, 2023 by Rebecca Wood

Happy Spring!! Even though we did not have a snowy winter, I am still excited by the change of season. I love the longer, warmer days and the flowers which are beginning to bloom. I find I have an extra spring in my step and a bigger smile on my face at this time of year. Sometimes change is a positive event!

Speaking of positive events, I am so excited for one of our most popular events of the year, the annual Spring Conference on April 14th! This is the event you don’t want to miss! We have an all-star lineup of speakers and thought leaders ready to share insight, wisdom, and motivation on a variety of fascinating topics. Vanessa Philbert will kick us off with an engaging presentation about identifying the circumstances, factors, and experiences that shape who we are and the life lessons we may have missed. Greg Orth will lead a thought-provoking discussion about identifying our self-limiting beliefs and how to shift those beliefs so we can get out of our own way.

After a wonderful lunch, we will hear from Karen Snyder as she shares an energizing, new perspective on passion, career, and the power of connectivity. Then we are lucky enough to have the dynamic duo of Janet McNally and Leslie Wireback to provide an interactive session focusing on the countless opportunities and possibilities within the field of Human Resources. Finally, we will finish strong with Holly White who will help us assemble our own personal advisory board to take our individual journeys from surviving to thriving!

How can you not be excited by all of that?! Sometimes, it can be easy to take for granted all of the incredibly talented professionals in our community who are willing to commit their time and efforts to enhancing the HR community in Lancaster County. I am so proud of the programming LSHRM has to offer.

I want to share a big and heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our Board members, Committee members, and volunteers. Your work is truly outstanding! I am sincerely grateful to work alongside our team of committed and dedicated volunteers.

I am looking forward to seeing all of you in 2 weeks and until then, I hope everyone has time to go outside and enjoy the sunshine!

All my best,

Jen Strobel

LSHRM President 2023

Filed Under: President's Message

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