NKY SHRM Newsletter - June 2026 Print

Words from the President

School is out. June is here. Your thoughts may be turning toward your summer vacation.  Staying engaged at work can be tough over the summer months.

The good news is that engagement is strong with NKY SHRM. In fact, it is the topic of our lunch meeting in June. Before getting to our June luncheon, I first want to commend our members for their engagement at our last luncheon meeting. I was so impressed with the turnout and the interest in our session in May. The topic, active shooter preparedness, was undeniably a challenging one, but members listened attentively and asked insightful questions. It was heartening to see NKY SHRM members so committed to safety for themselves, their workplaces, and their communities.

In June, we will have a change of pace but no reduction in impact. Davis Robinson of Horizon Consulting will present on employee engagement. Davis is an established professional in Northern Kentucky and a dynamic speaker. We look forward to hosting him and hearing his insights about strategies to keep employees motivated, committed, and inspired at our luncheon meeting on June 30 th at Receptions.

Community is the most important thing that helps me stay engaged at work. This
includes networking with and getting to know colleagues and others in the profession.  To that end, if you are planning to attend the upcoming national SHRM Annual Conference in Orlando later this month, don’t be a stranger. NKY SHRM’s newly elected treasurer, Randy Hemmerle, will be attending. He asks that anyone who will be there to email him at [email protected] to plan a meetup. NKY SHRM is glad to have Randy and all of its members representing us at the national conference.

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Next Monthly Meeting

Join us on June 30, 2026 from 11:30 - 1:00 at Receptions - Erlanger
1369 Donaldson Highway, Erlanger, KY 41018, and hear from Dr. Davis Robinson; on the topic Reimaging Employee Engagement - Prioritize the employee, not the organization

Register Now

Presentation Description

According to research conducted by SHRM, executives indicated that enhancing employee engagement in one of the top five business strategies. Research conducted by Gallup indicatedthat employee engagement fell in 2024 costing $438 billion. But if the engagement was solved, $9.7 trillion in productivity could be added to the economy. That's good news! But the bad news is since 2010, the highest it's ever been is 23% (2022 & 2023). The question is, why isn't the needle moving? Perhaps, it's time to reimagine engagement. 

Learning Objectives

Discuss organizational engagement strategies vs retention strategies
Explain the psychological enablers of employee engagement
Justify how reimagining employee engagement an make an organizational impact

Speaker Bio

Dr. Davis Robinson, AKA "The Fulfillment Dr." is the owner of Hrozon Consulting Services, LLC. He is a national public speaker,leadership coach, employee engagement thought leader, and is recoginized as a top 100 Human Resources Influencer by LinkedIn. He has over 25 years of experiences in Learning and Organizational Development, and is a two-time author: "Fulfilled." and "Disciline Your Motivation: Defeat Deterrents, Construct Confidence, and Believe in Yourself."

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Kentuckian Hiring Academy

Join the New Kentuckian Hiring Academy: Northern KY 

 June 17 | ONE NKY Center 
209 Greenup St., Covington, KY 41011

 The Kentucky Chamber Foundation, in partnership with the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, is excited to host the New Kentuckian Hiring Academy: a one-day, employer-focused workshop designed specifically for businesses looking to strengthen their hiring, onboarding, and retention strategies for work-authorized immigrants, refugees, and other documented workers.

 This in-person training is tailored for Northern Kentucky employers and will provide practical, step-by-step guidance to help businesses confidently expand their talent pipeline while ensuring compliance and long-term workforce success.

During this one-day academy, participating employers will gain:

  • A deeper understanding of the demographics, challenges, and opportunities within Kentucky’s immigrant and refugee workforce
  • Clear guidance on legal hiring practices, documentation, and employment authorization
  • Strategies for reducing barriers to employment and maximizing transferable skills
  • Tools to strengthen language access, cultural awareness, and employee retention
  • Connections to local community organizations and workforce partners

 

Whether your company is new to hiring New Kentuckians or looking to refine your current approach, this academy will equip your team with actionable tools and trusted resources to build a stronger, more inclusive workforce. 

Seats are limited, and early registration is encouraged.

 REGISTER HERE

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KY SHRM Conference

The annual KYSHRM 42nd Annual Conference, August 25-27, 2026, The Galt House, Louisville, KY

For conference information & registration click here -

Conference Registration

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KY SHRM Conference - One Day Registration Option

We’re excited to share some great news there is now a new 1-Day registration option available for the 2026 SHRM Kentucky Conference!

 This is a fantastic opportunity for those who may not be able to attend the full conference but still want to experience impactful sessions, connect with peers, and gain valuable insights all in one day.

 The cost will be $499 for SHRM members.

 To help ensure a smooth experience and track participation, please note the following details for the 1-Day option:

 Valid for Wednesday, August 26 only
• Non-transferable (cannot be split or shared)
• Does not include access to the Tuesday evening Exhibit Hall Welcome Reception (August 25)
• Wednesday-only attendees will receive a distinct lanyard color
• Name badges may only be picked up on the morning of Wednesday, August 26

You can register here:
KY SHRM Conference Registration

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Certification

While many HR professionals recognize the personal value of certification, it’s equally important to understand the impact it can have on an organization. In today’s evolving Human Resources landscape, advanced knowledge and validated expertise are key drivers of both individual and organizational success. However, organizations don’t always fully realize the measurable value
that certified HR professionals bring in terms of strategic insight, compliance, and overall effectiveness.

Not sure which certification aligns best with your career goals? SHRM offers an intuitive self-assessment tool designed to help guide your decision. By evaluating your educational background and HR experience, the tool recommends the certification best suited to your professional path.

Based on your responses, you may be guided toward the SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, or, if you are not yet eligible, a SHRM Specialty Credential.

Additionally, NKY SHRM offers scholarship opportunities to support your certification journey.  To learn more about obtaining your HR certification or to apply for a NKY SHRM scholarship of  up to $500, please visit https://nkyshrm.starchapter.com/Financial_Assistance

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Certification - Gateway Prep Course

Gateway Community & Technical College Workforce Solutions is offering a $100 Early Bird Discount for our fall class if registered by August 1st. Use Promo Code: SHRM100

Brochure

Registration Link   

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Foundation

Did you know that at each monthly NKYSHRM luncheon, we host a raffle featuring a special gift or gift card for just $1 per entry. It is more than a chance to win; it is an opportunity to give back. Each donation supports the impactful work of the SHRM Foundation, benefiting a variety of meaningful programs.

  • HR professionals – through research, tools, and professional development resources that help them improve workplace practices.
  • Students and emerging HR leaders – via scholarships, educational programs, and career support.
  • Organizations and employers – by gaining access to evidence-based HR strategies, improving workforce performance and culture.
  • The broader workforce and communities – because the Foundation’s work promotes better workplaces, inclusion, and economic opportunity.

In short, your donations support the advancement of the HR profession while also creating positive impacts for employees, businesses, and communities and who knows, you may be the next winner!

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National SHRM Conference

National SHRM Conference

Please click the above website for the full agenda and registration packages. 

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Board of Directors

2026 NKY SHRM
Board of Directors

Claire Parsons, President

Vicki Crawford, Vice President

Jayden Julian, Secretary

Randy Hemmerle, Treasurer

Holly Duffy, Past President

Mary Spadaro, Chapter Administrator

Sarah Leyshock, Legislative Co-Chair

Allyson Cook, Legislative Co-Chair

Allison Williams, College Relations Chair 

Kathy Papp, Diversity Chair 

Kathy Papp, SHRM Foundation Chair

Patty Cochran, Membership Chair

Angela Shell, Workforce Readiness

Erin Thiel, Certification Chair

Bobbie Webster, Special Events Co-Chair

Christine Barth,  Special Events Co-Chair

Amy Hatfield, Regional Liaison 

Jennifer Pauly, Social Media Chair

Julie Stockman, Technology Chair

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