January 2026 
President's Report
We didn't have a newsletter in December, but we wanted to share a message from our Immediate Past President, Nia Rieves.
Happy New Year! I cannot believe another year has come and gone by so quickly. I want to thank you for allowing me to serve as the WCASHRM President for 2025. It has been a wonderful experience and could not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our Board and Committee Members. Thank you all for your dedication to the chapter and it has been a privilege and honor to server alongside you this year.
Nia
2026 Board of Directors pictured above (Shayne, Deanna, Jenny, Sheryl, Brooke, Lauren, Jen and Brandi. Not pictured: Nia, Terrie, Terry, Bruce).
Happy New Year! I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful and restorative holiday season. I truly value that quieter time between Christmas and New Year. It offers a meaningful opportunity to slow down, reconnect with family, and recharge. It is also a time I use to reflect on the progress and successes of the past year while thoughtfully preparing for the year ahead. That reflection now gives way to goal setting and intentional planning, positioning us to step into 2026 energized, aligned, and ready to seize new opportunities.
I am truly humbled and honored to step into the role of President of WCASHRM in 2026. Our 2026 WCASHRM Board of Directors is an experienced, passionate, and energetic group of HR professionals from across the West Central Arkansas region. Together with you, our valued members, we will continue to lead by example and advance HR excellence throughout the state of Arkansas.
As we look ahead, WCASHRM has one remaining opening on the 2026 Board. We are actively seeking a Certification Director to champion and support our SHRM certification efforts. This role requires current SHRM membership and certification. If this opportunity interests you or if you would like to learn more, please reach out by emailing [email protected]
As you begin 2026, I hope you do so feeling recharged and inspired, ready to set bold goals, embrace new challenges, and continue building strong, supportive, and impactful workplaces together.
Please mark your calendars for the following Programs/Events of interest:
March 9-10, 2026 – The AI+HI Project - San Francisco, CA
April 19-22, 2026 – SHRM Talent Conference - Dallas, TX
April 30-May 1, 2026 - Arkansas SHRM Employment Law & Legislative Affairs (ELLA) Conference - Little Rock, AR
June 16-19, 2026 – SHRM Annual Conference – Orlando, FL
October 14-16, 2026 - Arkansas SHRM HR Conference & Expo - Hot Springs, AR
Our next meeting is January 27th. See you on zoom.
Jen
Jen Vaughn, SHRM-SCP | WCASHRM President | EMAIL ME
Monthly Sponsor
Apprenticely is a non-profit dedicated to building and retaining top talent in the state of Arkansas through Apprenticeships. As a Sponsor, we help companies, large and small, across all industries attract, train, and retain top talent through Registered Apprenticeship Programs, Work-Based-Learning internships, and Pre-Apprenticeship training. Organizations serving the IT, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Energy, and other industries are discovering Registered Apprenticeships are their ideal solution, and Apprenticely is their ideal partner to help them launch and manage their Registered Apprenticeship Programs." Employer benefits include:
- No-cost recruiting services when using Apprenticely as your Sponsor
- Free project management to implement apprenticeships
- Customized training per apprentice
- Average 84% retention rate
- Apprenticely helps you find funding to help with training costs through Federal and State grants.
To learn more or schedule a call, email Jenny Sales at [email protected] or visit apprenticely.org/employers.
We're looking for sponsors for our 2026 monthly meetings, and every month is totally open right now!
It's a sweet deal for members! If you're a WCASHRM Member, it's only $75.00 to sponsor a meeting, $125.00 for non-members.
What do you get? You get to talk about your company's business—the who, what, and why—to fellow HR folks. It's a fantastic way for your Marketing team to connect with the HR community across all of Arkansas, not just Hot Springs!
Don't wait around! Months are filling up fast!
Sponsors get extra promo! You'll get a promotion on the WCASHRM website and in promotional emails. Plus, you get to speak to members right before the meeting starts.
Interested? Let's chat! Just shoot an email to Jenny Sales, the 2026 President Elect, at [email protected] about this opportunity or visit Marketing Opportunities for more information.
Meeting Topic
HR Legal Update with Wayne Young
JANUARY 27 | 11:30 a.m. | VIRTUAL - zoom LINK WILL Be in the confirmation email | FREE FOR WCASHRM CHAPTER MEMBERS. $10 FOR NON-WCASHRM MEMBERS
H. Wayne Young is a partner with the Friday, Eldredge & Clark and a member of the Labor and Employment Law Practice Group. He was named the 2017 Russell Gunter Legislative Advocacy Award Recipient by Arkansas SHRM. The award recognizes outstanding contributions of time and effort in local, state or federal legislative advocacy on behalf of the Human Resources profession. He is a member of CAHRA and was awarded the association’s Legislative Advocacy Award for 2018. He has also been named in The Best Lawyers in America publication annually since 2015, and has been listed as a Rising Star in the Mid-South by Super Lawyers magazine annually since 2013. He is on the Board of Directors of Women and Children First and he is the past president of the Little Rock Downtown Kiwanis Club.
Wayne serves as General Counsel to the ARSHRM State Council. He graduated summa cum laude from Arkansas Tech University in Russellville and attended law school at the William H. Bowen School of Law at UALR. Wayne was a Bowen Scholar at the University of Little Rock School of Law, and won the Bogle-Sharpe Award for Most Likely to Succeed in the Practice of Law in 2003.
One hour of SHRM PDC & HRCI is approved.
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WCASHRM is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP.
HR Certification Institute's® (www.HRCI.org) official seal confirms that this Activity has met HR Certification Institute’s® (HRCI®) criteria for recertification credit pre-approval, including SPHR® and PHR®.
Board Positions Open
WE NEED A VOLUNTEER!
There’s still time to throw your hat in the ring! WCASHRM is looking for passionate, driven members to join our 2026 Board of Directors. We currently have opportunities for Certification. This role requires the individual to hold the SHRM HR certification.
As a Board Member, you’ll play a vital role in shaping the future of our chapter, supporting your fellow HR professionals, and bringing fresh ideas to life. It’s a rewarding way to grow your leadership skills, expand your network, and give back to the HR community.
Interested or want to learn more? Let’s talk! Email Jennifer Vaughn at [email protected].
Community Involvement
This quarter, WCASHRM's first quarter Community Outreach is supporting Community Resource Center. We are seeking monetary donations or items to donate to the center that is dedicated to serving Hot Springs residents by providing essential services, support, and programs that foster a stronger, more connected community. Its mission is to empower individuals and families by offering resources that promote well-being, education, and economic growth.
When necessary, the CRC serves as an emergency warming or cooling center and needs supplies to feed and clothe the individuals staying in the center.
For more information, visit: https://www.hotspringsar.gov/1861/Community-Resource-Center or https://www.facebook.com/CHSCommunityResourceCenter.
Membership Corner
WELCOME NEW WCASHRM MEMBERS
Christen Carrethers, SHRM-CP - PAgis
Know someone who is in HR but not a chapter member? Share our chapter with them! Since we meet virtually 8 months of the year, we reach all areas of the state.
WHY JOIN SHRM?
Today is a great time to renew your annual membership with SHRM! As a SHRM member, you’ll gain access to over $13,000 worth in HR tools, research, training and resources that can enhance your role as an HR Professional. A SHRM membership provides value daily and is a solid investment for any HR professional. If you renew now, you can lock in your 2025 annual membership for $299. Check out the SHRM Membership Benefits Guide for more details on all the benefits of being a SHRM member.
As the cost of doing business goes up, getting the most out of your resources is more critical now than ever. When you become a SHRM member, you’ll gain access to over $13,000 in tools, research, training and resources that can enhance your role as an HR Professional. A SHRM membership provides value daily and is a solid investment for any HR professional.
DETAILS:
WCASHRM dues are free for SHRM members who primary designate their SHRM membership with our chapter, $30 for SHRM members designated to another chapter, or $45/annually. Our members consist of HR professionals, small business owners, office managers, payroll clerks, benefit coordinators, and others interested in the Human Resource function.
In addition, the national organization - the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) - provides a multitude of resources including articles, legal updates, research, online tools including job descriptions, templates, audit information, and expert help in HR and business.
The paper membership application is here or the online membership application is here. If you're a SHRM member, you'll need to designate your membership to Chapter#467 with SHRM here.
Benefits of being a WCASHRM member include:
-Virtual meetings are free for members. (Virtual meetings are $10/month for non-members.)
-An opportunity to network on a monthly basis with local HR professionals.
-Regular legislative updates in the industry, community, state and federal levels.
-Recertification credits at our chapter meetings and annual Managers’ Seminar.
-Monthly topics that are relevant and of concern to Human Resource professionals.
-Monthly newsletters with information relating to the chapter, SHRM and HR industry.
-Participation in local workforce readiness activities.
-Certification study groups.
-Certification and College Scholarships.
-Chapter + SHRM (Dual) members get the best rate for ARSHRM
-Conferences.
-Post jobs for free on our website
Deanna Harris, SHRM-CP | Membership VP | EMAIL ME
Certification
WCASHRM is once again hosting a virtual study group to help members prepare for their SHRM certification. We also offer one scholarship for certification testing fees reimbursement per testing window for chapter members.
The chapter will reimburse up to $600 for four (4) chapter members, who successfully pass their certification testing annually. The reimbursement is available to chapter members who are national SHRM members and their employment does not pay for their certification testing. Applications will be accepted after successful exam results. You can download the scholarship form here.
If you are planning to test and want to find a study buddy or would like information regarding our scholarship, please reach out to Terrie Sossamon at [email protected].
Diversity
Spotlight on Diversity: What’s New in 2026?
As we step into 2026, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the workplace are undergoing a major evolution. This year’s trends shift from standalone initiatives to deeply embedded strategies—grounded in accountability, innovation, and integrated business impact.
From DEI to “Relational” Inclusion
Companies are transitioning from traditional DEI metrics toward relational, collaborative, and human‑centered frameworks. The emphasis has shifted from counting demographic categories to measuring who gets heard, sponsored, and empowered, and tying these to business outcomes like innovation and decision quality. [today.aom.org]
How You Can Elevate DEIB in 2026
- Embed fair design into workflows—from hiring to promotions
- Audit AI tools for unconscious bias and ensure human oversight
- Track influence, not just participation—who is being heard and advanced
- Support ERGs actively, especially for disabled and neurodiverse employees
- Align with new regulations, nurturing transparency in pay and representation
- Promote inclusive leadership, with training in emotional intelligence and collaborative decision-making
DEIB in 2026 isn’t just about numbers—it's about sustainable cultural change. The focus is on equitable systems, AI accountability, global compliance, and inclusive leadership—all designed to make every workplace step forward in fairness, representation, and belonging.
January is a month to celebrate the diverse ways in which we communicate and connect with each other. January 2026 highlights the many ways people express identity, memory, and community.
January 3 – Buddhist: Mahayana New Year - Celebrated in many Mahayana communities on the first full moon of January, focusing on reflection and renewal.
SHRM Foundation
Happy New Year! Let’s kick off 2026 strong by supporting the WCASHRM Foundation
As we begin a new year, WCASHRM Foundation is excited to share our goals for 2026 and invite you to be part of the impact we make together.
Our 2026 Fundraising Goal: $2,026
This year, our goal is to raise $2,026 to support scholarships, professional development opportunities, and workforce initiatives that strengthen the future of HR in our region.
We encourage members to consider:
- Monthly giving
- Quarterly contributions
- Or a one-time donation
Every level of support helps us continue meaningful work—and keeps WCASHRM Foundation moving forward.
Top 5% Nationwide — Let’s Stay There!
Thanks to your generosity, WCASHRM Foundation is currently ranked #19 nationally, placing us in the Top 5% of more than 500 SHRM chapters for fundraising. This is an incredible accomplishment, and with your continued support, we can remain among the Top 25 chapters nationwide.
New in 2026: Donor Recognition Tiers
This year, we are excited to introduce donor recognition tiers for individuals and organizations:
- Bronze
- Silver
- Gold
Donors will be publicly recognized at all WCASHRM events throughout the year, highlighting your commitment to supporting education, professional growth, and the HR community.
First Quarter Fundraiser: Coffee for a Cause
Our first fundraiser of the year will be Coffee for a Cause — a fun, casual opportunity to enjoy great coffee and even better conversation. Date and location will be announced next month. A portion of the proceeds will benefit WCASHRM Foundation and will be utilized to:
- Support student and professional scholarships
- Fund SHRM Foundation initiatives
- Invest in future HR leaders in our community
We are grateful for your continued engagement and generosity. Together, we are investing in the future of HR and making a measurable difference right here at home.
Ways You Can Donate
You can give via our West Central Arkansas WCASHRM - Catalog and we will submit your donation on your behalf or you can go directly to the donate.shrmfoundation.org website to give. Please be sure to list our chapter #467 so WCASHRM receives the credit for your donation. (If you donate via our website, please help us cover the credit card fees. For a $10 donation it is $0.75)
TOGETHER, WE CAN CREATE A WORLD OF WORK THAT SUPPORTS WORK FOR ALL.
SHRM Foundation - Building an Inclusive World of Work
Brandi Brazil, SHRM-SCP | SHRM Foundation Director | EMAIL ME
Workforce Readiness
lots of opportunities to assist in workforce readiness
Fountain Lake:
Fountain Lake School District is starting a podcast called "Cobracast." They will be using guest speakers for the show. If you would like to promote your organization or visit with students about a variety of careers, please contact Leland Green at 501-226-8607 or by email at [email protected]
Please complete the link below to a brief questionnaire to sign up for dates that best fit your schedule. Cobra Podcast | Guest Speaker - Google Form Questionnaire
Lake Hamilton:
Draft Day is April 9th and 10th from 8 am- 1 pm. Our local chapter may have an opportunity to assist with reaching out to local businesses to gather feedback and analysis from draft days held in previous years. This analysis will be used to continue to improve the event to better serve students in our local area.
Henderson State University:
On March 11th from 8am- 1 pm, Henderson State University is holding a Business Conference Day to benefit college of business students. For more information, please contact Ashley Campbell at 501-304-2379.
National Park College:
On March 12th 10am- 2 pm, National Park College will be hosting their annual job fair.
Brooke Gilbert | WCASHRM Workforce Readiness Director | EMAIL ME
Chapter Meetings, RSVP's, Payments
All 2026 Monthly Meetings will be held 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
In Person meetings for March, June, and September.
All other meetings will be virtually via Zoom.
IN PERSON LOCATION:
The Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce |
VIRTUAL ZOOM LINK:
We no longer email the meeting link the morning of the meeting. It is available in the confirmation email that you receive immediately after registering. Please save this email for access to the meeting. Please add [email protected] and [email protected] to your safe list so it doesn’t deliver to junk. If you can't locate the link, please email [email protected] for the link.
COST:
Virtual: Free for members; $10 for non-members.
In-Person: $15 for members; $20 for non-members. $5.00 late fee.
About WCASHRM
Starting in February 2024, Google and Yahoo are implementing new email authentication requirements for all bulk email senders. The changes are to protect recipients from scams and phishing attempts by authenticating all incoming emails based on specific requirements.
If you are having trouble receiving mail from your organization, a firewall or spam filtering service is likely the cause of the issue. However, you can add several domains and IP addresses to your local Allow List ensure safe delivery. Depending on your e-mail service, you may be able to do this yourself, or you may need the assistance of your IT administrator. We recommend including the following:
- 166.78.71.148
- 159.135.230.118
- 159.135.230.230
- 159.135.230.228
- 159.135.230.229
- 159.135.230.23
- starchapteremailhost2.com 67.43.2.30
- hostemail1.starchapterhost.com 209.59.162.85
- hostmailbox1.starchapterhost.com 67.43.7.204
- starchaptermail.com 69.60.117.130
Messages from the organization will usually have the same reply-to email address on them (visible if you start to reply to the message). Adding this address to your address book or contact list can also help ensure delivery. Adding webmail@ (the domain name) to the address book or contact list can also help. These changes can be helpful if e-mails are being reported as bounced, too.