Join Kari Naimon, founder and CEO of AixHR where she will be sharing immediately usable and practical guidance on using AI quickly, securely and effectively create meaningful and impactful learning content.

Register Here

In this session, attendees will learn hands-on strategies for leveraging AI to enhance key talent acquisition activities. Participants will gain prompt writing skills to direct AI for tasks like screening and evaluating candidates, analyzing hiring data, and interview summarization. 

Register Here

 JOIN US IN-PERSON or VIRTUALLY!

Conflict is an inevitable part of any organization, but how we approach it determines whether it becomes a barrier or an opportunity for growth. This session will guide participants through a structured process of addressing conflict effectively by honing into personal experiences and feelings, centering on the best approach, and taking intentional action.

Through self-reflection, we will explore the ways our responses impact outcomes, and how adopting a thoughtful, proactive stance can lead to better resolution and stronger relationships. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of their role in conflict and tangible strategies to navigate it with confidence and care.

 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

AGENDA

5:30 PM IN-PERSON NETWORKING (dinner included)

6:00 PM VIRTUAL SESSION BEGINS

6:05 PM LEGAL UPDATES

6:15 PM PROGRAM

7:15 PM Q&A

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Alicia Pinn

Alicia is a Bay Area native. She was born in Santa Clara, the heart of the Silicon Valley, and raised in both the South and East Bay Areas of northern California. The movement around the Bay exposed her to many diverse cultures and people. This and her sundry family makeup allowed her to embrace people of all backgrounds and identities. Alicia is an individual that likes to find the positives and works to drive the change. She believes that drive, learned experience, and organization are paramount to success!

Alicia has over 20 years of work experience in nonprofit and for profit companies and a non-traditional path of education rooted in the Executive level program for Human Resource Management at Cal State East Bay. She also holds certifications with the Society for Human Resources (SHRM) as a Certified Professional (CP), and a Workplace Inclusivity Specialist. She is also a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) with the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI).

Thank you to our sponsors:

the UCSC Silicon Valley Extension Human Resource Management Certificate Program

Join our mailing list to stay informed about National Human Resources Association events and programs.

(NOTE: This event will be offered both in-person and online. Please select the ticket type that reflects how you will attend.)

What to Expect: 

Discover how top employers strategically utilize their benefits packages to enhance employee engagement, improve retention, and maintain a financially sustainable benefits portfolio. A well-designed benefits program not only supports employees' well-being but also reinforces their connection to the organization. The annual benefits renewal meeting is a crucial opportunity to communicate the value of these offerings. When delivered effectively, this meeting can significantly impact employees’ perception of the company, fostering trust, satisfaction, and long-term commitment.

Key Takeaways: 

•Maximize Engagement & Retention – Well-structured benefits enhance employee satisfaction and loyalty.

•Effective Communication Matters – A strong benefits renewal meeting reinforces value and connection.

•Build Trust & Commitment – Clear benefits messaging fosters long-term employee retention.

Brenda Allison, MBA, HIP, AFIS

Coast General Insurance

Brenda Allison is an experienced insurance advisor with a background in Urban & Public Affairs and an MBA in Marketing. Since 2003, she has guided clients in risk management, earning her HIP and AFIS designations. A sought-after public speaker, she presents at agriculture conferences and advocates for financial literacy, children’s issues, and women’s empowerment. Recognized with numerous awards, including the 2025 LA Business Journal Leaders to Know, Brenda is also deeply involved in community service, serving on multiple boards. In her free time, she enjoys tennis, traveling, and family game nights with her children.

Additional Event Details

7:20 AM Registration & Networking

7:30 AM Breakfast & Introductions

7:45 AM Legal Update

8:00-9:00 AM Program and Q&A

Additional

*Pending approval for 1.25 hours of HRCI & SHRM Credit 

Burnout: Understanding Chronic Stress in the Workplace

The World Health Organization categorizes burnout as an “occupational phenomenon” not an individual disease or syndrome, yet our solutions have historically put the responsibility of healing on individual employees through “self-care” initiatives. This workshop addresses the mutual relationship between worker and workplace by exploring organizational risk factors for burnout, how to build a culture of wellness, and tools to evaluate and manage our personal stress levels.

(click logo for more info)

Corporate Sponsors

                       

         

Most workforces are woefully unprepared to safely and effectively leverage GenAI. That’s a missed opportunity – new research shows that, on average, workers believe they could increase their productivity by 10-30% if they had more AI-related skills.

Find out how those who are leading the way in AI adoption are upskilling their workforce to scale the benefits of this technology. Join us on May 15 to hear key findings from the latest Institute for Corporate Productivity (i4cp) study, Workforce Readiness in the Era of AI.

We will explore:

• How market leaders operationalize and scale AI with strategic support from HR
• What development and training those with prepared workforces are offering and to whom
• Why AI’s most prolific users in the workplace are the most fearful of being replaced by it
• Why a future-ready workforce is more important to improved market performance than AI readiness.

Employee Benefits for the Evolving Workforce

Hear from our benefit experts.

The workforce is evolving and employees are demanding more from employers. Companies are experiencing rising healthcare costs that are not sustainable using outdated tactics. Join us as our industry experts discuss creative benefit options for employees of all generations, the various funding options to consider and how to ensure that your broker is aligned with your goals and not the insurance carriers. 

You will learn about: 

• Flexible Benefit Offerings in 2025
• Alternative Funding Options
• Misaligned Incentives, Getting the Most Out of Your Benefits

Rich Westermayer, Founder of BeneSmart

Richard is the founder of BeneSmart and a lifelong entrepreneur with a background in finance. He received his bachelor's degree in finance from the University of Missouri and has spent the past 10 years working in the employee benefits industry. During this time, he has worked with businesses of all sizes and industries, providing enrollment fulfillment for over 3,300 clients. With his extensive experience and deep understanding of the benefits industry, Richard aims to share his knowledge and fresh perspective with as many people as possible. He is committed to helping businesses make informed decisions about their benefits and find the best options for their needs.

Julie Kappen, VP of Health & Welfare at Risk Strategies

With close to 20 years of experience in employee benefits, including the provider, carrier and HR space, Julie brings a multi-pronged approach to help employers navigate the complex health insurance environment.

With a strong pharmacy benefit background and experience working with jumbo employers, Julie can help employers tackle their highest healthcare costs through learned strategies from some of the largest companies in the nation. Most recently, Julie brought digital health programs to enterprise employers across the Southeast to help reduce overall healthcare spend.

Pete Shemetulskis, Vice President at Marquee Benefit Advisors

Pete Shemetulskis is a seasoned benefits consultant with over two decades of experience, serving self-funded, fully insured, level-funded, and PEO employers. Known for his deep expertise, Pete excels at simplifying complex benefits challenges while consistently bringing innovative, practical ideas to the table.

Thank you to our Monthly Sponsor! 

Thank you to our Major Sponsor! 

Thank you to our Contributing Sponsor!

 

JOIN US IN-PERSON or VIRTUALLY!

Human Resources strategy to lead and modernize HR strategy, processes and practices to ensure business value, values (cultural), and compliance. 

 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

AGENDA

5:30 PM IN-PERSON NETWORKING (dinner included)

6:00 PM VIRTUAL SESSION BEGINS

6:05 PM LEGAL UPDATES

6:15 PM PROGRAM

7:15 PM Q&A

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Marianne Campbell

The people I most enjoy working with meet at the Venn diagram intersection of dreaming big, achieving results, and having fun. I like to solve problems, Get Stuff Done, and improve work and the world.

I’m an agile professional executive who has led Human Resources, CSR, Communications, Public Affairs and Digital Marketing. As a lifelong learner, I have accumulated diverse industry experience working within Financial Services, Fin Tech, Retail, and E-commerce, Innovation, Home Security, Automobile Service, and Membership Clubs. I've led global teams in the Americas, Europe, Canada, and Japan, and I've worked for small and large companies ranging from 250 - 125,000 employees and revenues of $1B - $15B.

I joined Syufy Enterprises in June 2022 as the first CHRO, with the goal to modernize our Human Resources function. I look forward to sharing what we've accomplished and learned along the way in an effort to help you consider and learn from the experience.

Thank you to our sponsors:

the UCSC Silicon Valley Extension Human Resource Management Certificate Program

Join our mailing list to stay informed about National Human Resources Association events and programs.

Professional Recruiters of Rochester (Pro-ROC)

Talent Acquisition Program

HIRE UP: Elevating You Through a New Era

Join Professional Recruiters of Rochester (Pro-ROC) for our annual Talent Acquisition Program on Wednesday, June 11th! This year’s program is designed to empower talent acquisition and HR professionals at all levels with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the rapidly evolving recruitment landscape. Through a series of presentations and networking opportunities, participants will leave with actionable insights to elevate their talent acquisition strategies to the next level.

Agenda: 

• 8:30 - 9:00AM: Registration, Breakfast Buffet, and Networking 
• 9:00 - 9:10AM: Introductions
• 9:10 - 10:15AM: APA Solutions Presentation
• 10:15 - 10:55AM: Wellness Program & Sponsor Highlights
• 10:55 - 11:40AM: APA Solutions
• 11:40 - 11:45AM: Closing Remarks

This program has been submitted to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and HR Certification Institute (HRCI) for review. 

About Pro-ROC

Professional Recruiters of Rochester (Pro-ROC) is a special interest group of the National Human Resources Association – Rochester Affiliate. Pro-ROC’s collaborative leadership team assists recruitment professionals in refining and enhancing the craft of talent acquisition.

Meet our Speakers

Joan Graci

President and CEO, APA Solutions

As an advocate for leading with the brain in mind, Joan continues to engage her diverse client base by utilizing her three-plus decades of experience within the professional development space by enhancing her training with the most cutting-edge neuroscience. She is an agile leader who customizes her learning sessions to make them as applicable as possible to the unprecedented times we are living in. The brain-based approach she takes to both her training and coaching has resulted in increased self-awareness and better stress management among all of her clients.

Adrienne Schleigh

Adrienne Schleigh is a SHRM-certified Senior HR Professional with nearly 20 years of experience across all facets of human resources. Her experience spans diverse industries, supporting clients of various sizes and sectors. She specializes in talent attraction, retention, and engagement, change management, training, compliance, and stakeholder engagement. Known for her strong communication, creativity, and collaboration, Adrienne is passionate about fostering a people-first culture. Her mission is to help organizations create environments where people are valued, treated fairly, and empowered to thrive.

In her current role as Senior Director, Strategic Partnerships at the Melita Group, Adrienne creates content and educational programs that emphasize the importance of a strong people foundation for strategic HR, develops tools to support HR discussions and planning, and collaborates with thought leaders to curate valuable content that contributes to the HR community. A personable and enthusiastic communicator, Adrienne is often invited to speak on human resources, leadership, and workforce trends. She has presented at multiple state SHRM conferences, NHRA Rochester, Disrupt HR, and was selected as the keynote speaker for the 2022 CNY SHRM annual conference.

Interested in sponsoring this event? Please contact Miranda Leo at miranda@jkexec.com for additional information and available sponsorship slots.

Thank you to our generous sponsors!

Presenting: MetroData Services

             

Coffee: JK Executives

Advertising:Beyond TalentEdge!

Mastering True Leadership

(NOTE: This event will be offered both in-person and online. Please select the ticket type that reflects how you will attend.)

- We start promptly at 7:30 am!

This engaging and insightful program is designed to equip attendees with a deep and comprehensive understanding of the core principles of effective leadership. By exploring proven strategies and real-world applications, participants will gain valuable insights into developing their own leadership styles and enhancing their communication skills. The session will delve into key topics such as fostering collaboration, inspiring teams, navigating challenges, and building trust, ensuring attendees leave with practical tools they can implement immediately to lead with confidence and impact. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to grow in your leadership journey, this talk offers something for everyone looking to elevate their skills and drive meaningful results.

Justin Grooms

Chariot Consulting

Additional Event Details

7:20 AM Registration & Networking

7:30 -9:00 AM Program and Q&A

This event is pending for 1.25 credit hours for both HRCI & SHRM credits.

     

Thank you to our sponsors:

www.parallaxed.com

Progressive Discipline

(NOTE: This event will be offered both in-person and online. Please select the ticket type that reflects how you will attend.)

- More information to come!

Rachel Nelson, Esq.

Nelson Law Office, Employment Attorney

Additional Event Details

7:20 AM Registration & Networking

7:30 -9:00 AM Program and Q&A

This event is pending for 1.25 credit hours for both HRCI & SHRM credits.

     

Thank you to our sponsors:

www.parallaxed.com

In preparation for the 2025 HR Executive and Rising Star Luncheon, we have opened sponsorship opportunities! Please read the descriptions below on the different sponsorship opportunities that we offer. This year’s luncheon will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at Monroe Golf Club. 

Questions on sponsorship opportunities? Please contact Gina Sullivan (Gsullivan@mindex.com).

Presenting - $4,000 - Sold Out

• Reserved seating in prime location at event (2 tables of 8).
• Pre Packaged Sponsorship Kit (4 LinkedIn Images, Web Copy, Social Media Copy & Email Header).
• Event program recognition, strategic placement of full-page color ad in program booklet (inside cover or back page).
• Your organization’s signage at the event.
• A few moments to speak during the event.
• Your logo and the NHRA logo will appear on table signs.
• Recognition of your sponsorship in event presentation and on NHRA’s website.

 

Giveaway - $3,500 - Sold Out

• Reserved seating in prime location at event (1 table of 8).
• Pre Packaged Sponsorship Kit (Web Copy, Social Media Copy).
• Event program recognition, full-page color ad in program booklet (other than inside cover or back page).
• Your logo and sponsorship call out on NHRA’s social media and on event table signs.
• Recognition of your sponsorship in event presentation.
• Co-branded event giveaway item with your logo and NHRA’s logo.

 

Platinum - $2,500

• Reserved seating in prime location at event (1 table of 8).
• Pre Packaged Sponsorship Kit (Web Copy, Social Media Copy).
• Event program recognition, full-page color ad in program booklet (other than inside cover or back page).
• Your logo and sponsorship call out on NHRA’s social media and on event table signs.
• Recognition of your sponsorship in event presentation.

 

Gold -$1,750

• Reserved seating (4 tickets to event).
• Inclusion in pre-event publicity.
• Recognition in event program with a 1/2 page color ad.
• Recognition of your sponsorship in event presentation.

 

Silver - $1,250

• Open seating (3 tickets to event).
• Inclusion in pre-event publicity.
• Recognition in event program with your logo.
• Recognition of your sponsorship in event presentation.

 

Video - $1,500 (1)

• Open seating (2 tickets to event).
• Logo featured prominently in promotional video featuring HR Executive of the Year honorees.
• Inclusion in pre and post-event publicity.
• Recognition in event program with your logo.

 

Photography - $1,000 (1)

• Open seating (2 tickets to event).
• Inclusion in pre and post-event publicity.
• Recognition of your sponsorship in event presentation.
• Recognition in event program with your logo.

 

Dessert - $1,000 (1)

• Open seating (2 tickets to event).
• Your logo printed on sugar cookies at each table.

 

Meet & Greet - $1,000 (2) (1) remaining

• Taking place on June 10th, 2025 at the Jackrabbit Club
• 4 tickets to Meet & Greet.
• A few moments to speak during opening remarks.
• Display table at the event.

 

Flowers - $800 - Sold out

• Open seating (2 tickets to event).
• Logo displayed with floral arrangements.

 

Program - $800

• Open seating (2 tickets to event).
• Recognition in event program with your logo and a 1/2 page color ad.

 

Supporter - $350

• NEW Open seating (1 ticket to event).
• Recognition in event program with your logo.

Understanding Finances for the HR Professional

(NOTE: This event will be offered both in-person and online. Please select the ticket type that reflects how you will attend.)

- More information to come!

Paul Butler

Additional Event Details

7:20 AM Registration & Networking

7:30 -9:00 AM Program and Q&A

This event is pending for 1.25 credit hours for both HRCI & SHRM credits.

     

Legal compliance challenges

(NOTE: This event will be offered both in-person and online. Please select the ticket type that reflects how you will attend.)

- More information to come!

Katherine Amoroso

New Level Resources

Additional Event Details

7:20 AM Registration & Networking

7:30 -9:00 AM Program and Q&A

This event is pending for 1.25 credit hours for both HRCI & SHRM credits.

     

Ethical AI Use and Upskilling for an AI Driven Workplace

(NOTE: This event will be offered both in-person and online. Please select the ticket type that reflects how you will attend.)

- More information to come!

James Nagy

Additional Event Details

7:20 AM Registration & Networking

7:30 -9:00 AM Program and Q&A

This event is pending for 1.25 credit hours for both HRCI & SHRM credits.

     

Legal update

(NOTE: This event will be offered both in-person and online. Please select the ticket type that reflects how you will attend.)

- More information to come!

Ryan Haws

Laura Withrow

Additional Event Details

7:20 AM Registration & Networking

7:30 -9:00 AM Program and Q&A

This event is pending for 1.25 credit hours for both HRCI & SHRM credits.