July 2021 note from the editor 

    Our July issue is very special because we feature the top educational programs for HR professionals. If you would like to finish your degree or perhaps obtain a graduate degree, you will find many excellent offerings in this issue. We are showcasing many Southeastern colleges and universities with an array of online degree programs that are bound to meet your needs. Check out these fine programs and find the one that suits your needs.

    What an honor to have Doug Baber, SHRM-CP, and Certification Director for HR Florida on our July cover! He is also Human Resources & Risk Management Director at St. Lucie County Board of Commissioners. In addition, he is currently working on his dissertation for a doctorate in Business Administration. Doug is also immediate past-president for the St. Lucie County Human Resource Association. You will want to read about Doug’s incredible accomplishments on Page 6.

    Speaking of certification, if you are not yet certified, be sure to check out our website for our Online HRCI Certification Exam Prep Class beginning August 2. Our next Online SHRM Certification Exam Prep Class begins in October. Getting your HR certification is one of the most important steps you can take to move up the career ladder. If your company doesn’t provide tuition reimbursement for this important certification, pay for it yourself! This is an investment that you will never regret. I also encourage you to become active in your local SHRM Chapter. Networking with your HR colleagues is also a great investment in your career.

    Save the Date for these upcoming fall conferences:

    TN SHRM Conference & Expo Aug 15-18 in Nashville

    2021 HR Florida Conference & Expo Aug 29-Sept. 1 in Kissimmee

    37th Annual Conference KYSHRM Aug. 31-Sept 2 in Louisville

    SHRM21 Annual Conference & Expo Sept 9-12 in Las Vegas

    SHRM Georgia State Conference Sept 22-24 in Stone Mountain

    ARSHRM State Conference & Expo Sept 29-Oct 1 in Rogers

    NCSHRM State Conference & Expo Oct 20-22 in Greensboro

    4th Annual Supervisor and Manager Conference Nov. 19 in Memphis

    Watch your email for your invitation to our July complimentary webinar sponsored by Data Facts on July 29, “The Structure of HR.” Be sure to check out our Thursday webinars in July on Page 19. Earn 4 HRCI and SHRM credits. If you are not currently receiving our monthly email invitation, you can subscribe on our website at www.hrprofessionalsmagazine.com