May 2026 
President's Report
Several of our WCASHRM Members at the recent ELLA Conference. More members attended but missed our photo opportunity.
Welcome to May! We’re carrying great momentum forward after an exciting and productive April, and there’s even more to look forward to in the weeks ahead.
Last month, we had the pleasure of hearing from Christie Martin with Skills Lab at our monthly membership meeting. Her session, “Beyond the Job Boards: Discovering Hidden Talent in Unexpected Places,” was packed with practical insights and fresh ideas to help us think differently about talent acquisition. A big thank you as well to Natalie Russle with Arkansas Healthcare Insurance for sponsoring this engaging session!
It was also wonderful connecting with so many of you at the ELLA Conference in Little Rock. ELLA is always my favorite event, and this year was no different. There was so much useful information on policy, compliance, and what the landscape for employers and HR will look like going into 2027!
If you missed it, make sure you sign up to attend the HR2026 Conference in Hot Springs, October 14-16. We will be celebrating 40 Years of the HR Conference & Expo as we “Level Up: The Future of HR is A Game Changer”. There will be more great information to help keep everyone in HR on track!
As we move through the second quarter, WCASHRM is proud to support Sunshine Therapeutic Riding Center as part of our Community Outreach efforts. We are currently seeking monetary donations to help with much-needed repairs to fencing and gates. Your support can make a direct and lasting impact.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to invite you to our next virtual membership meeting on May 26, 2026. Join us for an insightful session with Kanya Olivier and Ebony Olivier as they share strategies on “Maximizing ROI from Departing Employees.” Registration is now open, and we hope to see you there!
Please mark your calendars for the following Programs/Events of interest:
June 16-19, 2026 – SHRM Annual Conference – Orlando, FL
August 27, 2026 – WCASHRM 21st Annual Manager Seminar – Hot Springs, AR
October 14-16, 2026 – ARSHRM State Conference-Hot Springs, AR
December 3-4, 2026- Arkansas VLBM (Volunteer Leaders)- Mt. Magazine, AR
April 8-9, 2027 - ELLA Conference - Little Rock, AR
Sincerely,
Jen Vaughn
Jen Vaughn, SHRM-SCP | WCASHRM President | EMAIL ME
Monthly Sponsor
Alyssa Mraz is a HCM Consultant at Paylocity Inc. With over a decade of experience, she works strategically with company leaders to evaluate HR+ Finance+IT technology to streamline processes, mitigate compliance risk, and integrate systems. The best part is she can do this all with a focus on the organizational culture & employee experience. Her goal is to help organizations become recognized as one of the “Best Places to Work.”
In addition to her participation with WCASHRM, Alyssa also serves on the CASA of Pulaski County Board and the Argenta Downtown Council board. Alyssa resides in her hometown of North Little Rock with her husband Eddie Mraz, their 3yr old son Everett, and dog Sully. She loves being outdoors – often hiking or biking, and exploring.
Meeting Topic
Maximizing ROI from Departing Employees: Insights and Strategies with Kanya and Ebony Olivier
MAY 26 | 11:30 a.m. | VIRTUAL - zoom LINK WILL Be in the confirmation email.
FREE FOR WCASHRM CHAPTER MEMBERS. $10 FOR NON-WCASHRM MEMBERS.
This presentation highlights the critical importance of managing employee departures strategically. It addresses the financial, cultural, and reputational implications of employee exits and provides actionable strategies to maximize ROI through effective exit processes, confidentiality protection, and support programs for transitioning employees.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the financial and cultural impacts of poorly managed employee departures.
- Learn key components of a formal exit process that reflects company values and safeguards intellectual property.
- Explore strategies to maximize ROI by supporting departing employees and reinforcing a positive company image.
Ebony Olivier, SHRM-CP is the President of The Company Bridge Program, powered by Job Interview Training Executive Corp., where she leads transformative workforce transition solutions for businesses navigating restructuring, layoffs, and organizational change.
As a seasoned public speaker, trainer, and Human Resources Professional, Ebony leverages over a decade of experience in human resources to deliver expert guidance tailored to the needs of executives and employees alike. Ebony is a certified SHRM Human Resources Professional, Florida Certified Labor Relations Professional, and Certified EEOC Investigator, specializing in employee offboarding, EEOC compliance, and the complexities of workforce transitions. Her expertise spans critical areas such as training and development, performance management, strategic planning, labor relations, talent management, recruitment, offboarding and retention.
At The Company Bridge Program, Ebony’s team provides comprehensive services, including reduction transition management, position elimination and reallocation assistance, compliance guidance, leadership training, and outplacement services. They specialize in assisting companies navigating downsizing, restructuring, and mergers, helping organizations transition their employees through the layoff process with empathy and precision.
Ebony’s passion for human resources led her to earn a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Psychology from The Florida State University, with a concentration in Human Resources Management, Training and Development, and Organizational Learning. During her academic journey, she conducted research on adult learning and motivation, laying the foundation for her career as an HR consultant and career coach.
Her personalized approach equips clients with invaluable strategies to navigate challenges and achieve their goals with confidence, making her a trusted partner for businesses and professionals alike.
Kanya Olivier is a distinguished professional and thought leader with a diverse background in Construction, Engineering, Technology and Human Resource Management. As the President of The Company Bridge Program, powered by Job Interview Training Executive Corp., she has established herself as a trusted authority on ethical and compliant workforce transitions. Kanya began her career as a Career Coach and quickly identified a critical need for organizations to manage employee layoffs with both strategic precision and profound empathy. This insight propelled her to develop a comprehensive consultancy focused on navigating the complexities of corporate restructuring.
Kanya’s expertise is widely recognized. She was honored as a nominee for the 2025 SHRM Florida Human Resource Professional of the Year, a testament to her significant contributions to the field. Her influential voice extends through her popular blog, "HR's Guide to Downsizing in South Florida," where she provides actionable insights for business leaders. She is also a published author in the HR Florida Newswire magazine. Her thought leadership includes the July 2024 article, "Mass Layoffs Spark Social Media Outrage: A Threat to Corporate Growth," which explores the reputational risks of workforce reductions, and her definitive June 2025 guide, "HR Executive’s Guide to Navigating EEOC Regulations During Mass Layoffs in South Florida." This latest publication provides critical compliance frameworks for HR executives, further cementing her status as a leading expert in the field.
Under Kanya's leadership, The Company Bridge Program delivers a robust suite of services, including reduction-in-force transition management, position elimination and reallocation assistance, compliance guidance, leadership training, and outplacement services. Her approach is rooted in a strong academic foundation, holding a bachelor’s degree in Economics with a minor in Business Administration from Florida A&M University, which informs her strategic foresight in performance management and planning.
Kanya is known for a hands-on, compassionate leadership style that ensures success for both organizations and their employees. She and her team partner closely with clients to develop tailored solutions that transform workforce challenges into opportunities for growth, stability, and renewed success.
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®.
Managers' Seminar
Registration is now open for the WCASHRM Managers Seminar.
Cost is $95/per person and includes lunch.
Watch our site for more information on the sessions. We will offer 6 hours of CE.
We are seeking sponsors and vendors for our event. Thank you to 1st Employment for their continued support as our Presenting Sponsor.
$1000 Lunch Sponsor
Logo on Website (Seminar Page and Meeting Page)
Logo on Onsite Program
Logo on Luncheon Signage
Vendor Booth
Market to 300+ registrants
Recognition at Keynote Session and Concurrent Session Before Lunch
Registration List after event
Three (3) complimentary registrants
$500 Break Sponsor
Logo on Website (Seminar Page)
Logo on Onsite Program
Logo on Break Signage
Vendor Booth
Market to 300+ registrants
Recognition at Keynote Session
Registration List after event
Two (2) complimentary registrants
$250 Concurrent Session Sponsors - one session
$350 Concurrent Session Sponsors - two sessions
Logo on Website and Onsite Program
Market to 300+ registrants
Recognition for Session
Introduction of Speaker (optional)
Registration List after event
One (1) complimentary registrant
$225 - Vendors
Face-to-face time with 300+ individuals
representing over 75 companies
Booths include 6X30 table with 2 chairs
Electricity with $50 payment
Registration List after event
One (1) complimentary registrant
Visit our Seminar page for more information including registration. If you are interested in being a sponsor, please reach out to Jenny or Janet at [email protected].
Community Involvement
WCASHRM's second quarter Community Outreach is supporting Sunshine Therapeutic Riding Center. The Sunshine Therapeutic Riding Center (STRC) is an equine-assisted therapy organization 501(c)3 that strives to improve the lives of individuals of all age groups, including children with disabilities, through the partnership and therapeutic power of horses.
We are seeking monetary donations as Sunshine Therapeutic is very specific with their needs. Currently, they have a horse right now that has eaten through most of their fencing/gates. There are 16 gates that need to be repaired so they need funds to assist with those repairs.
In addition, Sunshine Therapeutic's Horsemanship Fund (Horsemanship Fund) is for kids whose families can't afford all the services. Insurance can cover some of the costs, but this care fund allows more patients to be seen, which is their goal.
For more information, watch this video: Sunshine Therapeutic Mission Video or visit: https://www.sunshineridingcenter.org or https://www.facebook.com/sunshinecenterar.
College Relations
ARSHRM Conference Student Invite & Benefits
Want to level up as an emerging HR professional? Serve as a student volunteer! As a student volunteer, you will have the ability to network with over 400 HR professionals, listen to top-notch speakers, and have your resume shared with attendees and vendors from around the state.
Benefits of Being a Student Volunteer:
- Free conference registration
- Ability to gain practical experience in conference operations (great for resumes)
- Networking
- Conference T-shirt
- Free Meals
- *Hotel costs may be covered for student volunteers who can commit to volunteering for the entire event
Volunteer Requirements:
Attend the event set-up on October 13th (Details TBD)
Be available to serve throughout the conference
Optional:
Provide a resume for Vault access
To ensure the receipt of a t-shirt, student volunteers will need to notify the College Relations Director by 8/1 of their intent to volunteer.
Benefits of being a Student Member with SHRM:
Membership: Is only $75 annually for a student and leads to 1/2 priced professional membership for the two years following graduation. SHRM provides a ton of resources, training, networking, etc.
Add a local chapter membership to get the most out of networking and training opportunities. Some chapters offer free memberships when you are a SHRM member, others a discounted rate or a student rate. Check out the local chapters here: https://www.arshrm.com/state-chapters.
Scholarships: Another benefit of being a SHRM member is scholarships. There are local and national scholarship opportunities. You can find those resources here:
Certification: Being a certified HR Professional is one of those things that sets us apart in the HR space. One of the best times to complete your SHRM certification is near the end of completing your degree. The HR/Business content is still fresh in your mind, and you are in a studying mindset. If you take your certification exam while you are a student, you will be able to take it at a discounted rate. You learn more about the certification program here:
Jennifer Vaughn, MBA, SHRM-SCP
Diversity
May Diversity and Inclusion Calendar 2026
May highlights Mental Health Awareness Month and includes observances recognizing cultural heritage, accessibility, and global solidarity.
May 5 – National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
Raises awareness of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people.
May 16 – Veterans: Armed Forces Day
US observance on the third Saturday in May, honoring those currently serving in the military.
May 17 – LGBTQ+: International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia
Highlights violence and discrimination against LGBTQ+ people worldwide.
May 21 – Global Accessibility Awareness Day
Held on the third Thursday in May, focusing on digital access and inclusion.
May 27 – Islamic: Eid al-Adha*
A major Islamic festival commemorating Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son; in 2026, it is expected around this date (beginning the evening before), with exact observance varying by location and moon sighting.
Discover May heritage events with our May Awareness Months 2026 to celebrate diversity months 2026.
Terry Davis | Diversity Director | EMAIL ME
SHRM Foundation
There is a lot going on at WCASHRM this year! We are always looking for new ways for members to connect and engage, so be sure to check out these new opportunities for 2026.
NEW!! WCASHRM Foundation Sponsorship Levels 2026
Gold Sponsor - $500
Recognition Includes:
- Prominent logo placement on all major WCASHRM event materials
- (flyers, slides, signage, select digital communications)
- Two (2) complimentary tickets to the WCASHRM Managers Seminar
- Sponsor logo included with virtual meeting gift cards
- Dedicated social media spotlight recognizing the organization’s support
- Verbal recognition at WCASHRM supported events
- Recognition as a Gold Sponsor on the WCASHRM website and Foundation communications
Silver Sponsor - $250
Recognition Includes:
- Logo placement on select WCASHRM event materials (slides and select digital communications)
- Logo placement on printed/digital event materials for one WCASHRM Foundation event
- One (1) complimentary ticket to a WCASHRM Foundation fundraising event
- Recognition in select WCASHRM digital communications
- Recognition as a Silver Sponsor on the WCASHRM website and Foundation communications
Bronze Sponsor - $100
Recognition Includes:
- Logo or name recognition on select WCASHRM digital platforms
- Verbal recognition at select WCASHRM Foundation-supported events
- Recognition as a Bronze Sponsor on the WCASHRM website and Foundation communications
Recognition opportunities may vary based on event format and communication channels. WCASHRM reserves the right to determine appropriate and equitable recognition.
2026 Goal
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
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
Membership Corner
WELCOME NEW WCASHRM MEMBERS
Your Name Could be Here!
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 2026 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 offers a 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 me.
Jennifer Greer, SHRM-SCP | Certification 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.