And Other Duties as Assigned is a compelling comedy/drama that demonstrates the frustrations and challenges faced by HR professionals today, and will serve as the opening keynote for the KYSHRM Conference on Tuesday, August 29. Karen, played by LSHRM President-Elect Patricia Williams, is beginning her journey as an HR leader, and wonders if HR is a role where she can make a difference and have impact. 

No surprise to us HR professionals as the Bridging the Talent Gap Survey reveals most Kentucky companies face a talent shortage. This based on the results of 1084 respondents to the survey. The results of the survey were revealed May 22 at the KY SHRM statewide Bridging the Talent Gap Reveal event.

The Kentucky SHRM State Council is accepting nominations for our most prestigious award - The Lyle Hanna Volunteer Spirit Award. This award is given to a Kentucky chapter member who advances the HR profession, contributes to improving HR in their work and career, and makes exceptional volunteer contributions to their community and local chapter.

As you may know, SHRM President and CEO Hank Jackson announced his plans to retire this year. On June 1, it was announced that, after an extensive search, Johnny C. Taylor Jr., J.D., SHRM-SCP, has been named president and CEO of the Society for Human Resource Management. His appointment is effective in November.

Beginning with the 2017 Winter testing window, students enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s HR degree program at an educational institution aligned to SHRM’s curriculum guidelines are eligible to apply for the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) exam. 

In 2005 the Lyle Hanna Volunteer Spirit Award was developed to recognize volunteer SHRM leaders in Kentucky. The award, named after two-time KYSHRM chair Lyle Hanna, honors recipients for “tireless efforts, enthusiastic spirit, and passionate commitment to serve the HR professional and advance the HR profession.”

Your help is needed to spread the word about an exciting event that will increase the visibility and credibility of HR in our state! I'm talking about KYSHRM's Bridging the Talent Gap in KY initiative!

The competition really heated up this year for the 13th Best Places to Work in Kentucky program. Participation in the process has steadily grown and this was the second year that 100 winners were recognized in our commonwealth. There were 41 recognized at the program’s inception in 2005.

The Kentucky SHRM Conference is August 29-31 and you need to be there! Last year's State Conference was the largest ever held with over 500 attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors taking part. Please plan on attending this year's Kentucky State Conference August 29 - 31 at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville.

The focus of wellness is changing. Employers are more focused on keeping healthy employees healthy — not just encouraging unhealthy employees to change their lifestyles.