What a year 2011 turned out to be! HR Florida truly was the catalyst for shaping educated and engaged HR business professionals with influence in the field and community. Looking back, we’ve done some pretty great things. It was hard work, but it was also “heart” work. Together, we:
• Advocated successfully against the eVerify and Guns in the Workplace amendments, through our inaugural state legislative “Day on the Hill” event,
• Smashed records with over 1,700 in attendance at our world-class state conference,
• Raised $15,000 to benefit the SHRM Foundation and Kids Against Hunger charity,
• Launched a new student chapter in Orlando and several initiatives to increase chapter membership,
• Became a SHRM National Pinnacle Awards finalist for our upcoming Executive Summit, and
• Supported over 964 HR professionals in attaining their career goals through our HR Connections program.
We’re not done yet.
As an optimist at heart, I’m always energized by the thought of new beginnings. Clean slate. Uncharted territory. Worlds to explore. So that makes me believe 2012 presents us with the opportunity for fresh intentions and new purposes. It’s a time for hope, renewal, and recommitment to HR Florida, our chapters and our volunteers.
Why do we do what we do as volunteers? It’s certainly not because of the money or the glory. For most of us it is because we have the opportunity to learn, to grow both personally and professionally, to build relationships, to give back, and to serve.
So, as I enter the second year of my presidency, my goals for HR Florida continue to focus on forging this strong sense of community and service. We’ll use Council and SHRM resources to assist our chapters, our members, and their businesses. We’ll provide a state conference that meets professional development expectations and delights attendees and sponsors alike. We’ll get out to ground zero and help our chapters and our professionals tackle the tough challenges the economy will continue to bring to employers and employees alike. And we’ll go P+P for the ultimate in SHRM recognition— Platinum and Pinnacle!
We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of leaders who have stepped up to the challenge of keeping HR Florida at the forefront of HR. I’m delighted, honored, and proud to work with these people and to be a part of this organization. I’ve learned. I’ve grown. I’ve made many wonderful friends. I’ve worked hard, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Help put a stamp on our profession by volunteering at the chapter or state level. There are all kinds of opportunities that fit your skills, your interests and your time. Visit www.hrflorida. org to see what’s out there. Think about it. Better yet, make that commitment to community and to service by joining me in this “Heart-Work for HR.” See you around the state!
Heather E. Vogel, SPHR President
