I begin the year with the privilege of taking on the President role for Wichita SHRM. Considering the role, I find that perhaps an official introduction is in order. I have been involved with SHRM and I consider myself a “SHRM-me” for the last 16 years. In my regular work life, I am an employment attorney, practicing for about 20 years. I have worked with human resource professionals located in numerous states and with large and small companies. From all my experience, I have always known the value of the local SHRM Chapter.

At the retreat of the new Wichita SHRM Board, all the members were asked what they enjoy the most about SHRM. The common response among the members was “networking”. In our Chapter, networking provides resources and the ability to utilize each other when questions arise or dealing with specific issues. Over the past several years, the Wichita SHRM Board has continued to add value to its members by providing key networking opportunities and resources to everyone. The goal in 2012 is to continue providing these resources and networking.

I also have the pleasure this year to work with a Board that includes some excellent and active HR professionals. The Wichita SHRM Board members are not only active on local human resource issues but are also involved with Kansas SHRM initiatives. I encourage you, if you have a chance to contact any of the Board members, to do so, since they are an excellent resource.

Please allow me to introduce the 2012 Wichita SHRM Board of Directors:

President Elect                     Shelbye Smith with iSi Environmental
VP Programs                         Makala Wiese with CCH – Wolters Kluwer
VP Membership                     Jon Tiger with Spirit Aerosystems
VP Marketing                         Kevin Steckley with Windsor HR Services
VP Communication                Todd Sutcliff with National Screening Bureau
Treasurer                               Amber Neises with Metal-Fab, Inc.
Secretary                               Amanda Ropar with Professional Engineering Consultants, P.A.
Director Legislative                Mindy McPheeters with Delta Dental of Kansas
Dir. Workforce Readiness     Teresa Bengtson with Allen, Gibbs and Houlik
Director Foundation               Bobbie Knoblauch with Wichita State University
Director Certification              Betty Shuman with Wesley Rehabilitation Hospital
Director Student Liason         Laura Gerber with Murfin, Inc.
Director Technology              Kathy Slemp with Friends University
Director Finance                    Lavetta Shaffer with A-OK Enterprises
Director Diversity                   Dena Smoot with Butler Community College
Director at Large                   David Cox with Kelly, Dean & Lewis, LLC
Director at Large                   Sheila Whiston-Fox with Via Christi Hospitals
Director at Large                   Melanie Stoecklein with Foley Equipment
Director at Large                   Mona Martin with Nex Tech Aerospace
Past President                      Jena Lysen with Allen, Gibbs and Houlik

In conclusion, I would like to thank everyone for allowing me to serve as the 2012 President of Wichita SHRM. I would also like to thank the past President, Jena Lysen, for having such an excellent 2011. I hope that 2012 will be just as much of a success.

I look forward to seeing everyone at a SHRM event soon.

Trinidad Galdean, JD, PHR
2012 President of Wichita SHRM
trinidad.galdean@kutakrock.com

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