ATTENDING SHRM25 AS A STUDENT
Kickstart your HR career and maximize your time at SHRM25 with the recommended agenda below.
Sessions
Build, Buy, or Borrow: Aligning Talent Strategies to Fit Business Needs - 1595
Organizations across industries face growing challenges in managing and acquiring talent amidst shifting workforce dynamics. This session explores the strategic frameworks of Build (developing internal talent), Buy (hiring external talent), and Borrow (leveraging temporary or outsourced talent) to align talent strategies with business objectives. Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how to evaluate and integrate these strategies to address skills gaps, support business growth, and foster a culture of innovation. Through real-world examples, research insights, and practical tools, participants will leave equipped to make informed decisions about optimizing talent acquisition and retention strategies for their unique organizational needs.
The 7 Things We Continue to Mess Up in Corporate Recruiting & How to Fix Them! - 1145
Talent Acquisition is a game of whack-a-mole. One day, you're buried in candidates. The next, you can't find enough. Quality hires come and go like seasons, leaving you frustrated and wondering what went wrong. It's not that we don't know how to solve these problems; the truth is that recruiting is moving at the speed of light. Every solution seems to spark new challenges. Tim Sackett, renowned author of The Talent Fix, Vol. 2, and TA tech expert is here to help you break free from this cycle once and for all. Tim combines insight, humor, and practical advice you can apply the moment you leave the session. In this high-energy talk, Tim will tackle today’s toughest recruitment challenges head-on. Whether you're drowning in resumes, struggling to attract top talent, or unsure which metrics matter most, he's got you covered. From cutting-edge tools to the latest in employment branding, Tim’s session is packed with actionable strategies to level up your recruiting game.
Inclusive Workplaces: Leveraging Child Care Solutions to Attract a Diverse Workforce - 1202
With a hyper-competitive talent market, creating a truly inclusive workplace is more than a value — it's a strategic imperative. Child Care solutions are emerging as a one of the most powerful tools in building diverse, equitable workforces that attract and retain top talent. This session will explore how providing comprehensive Child Care Benefits can break down barriers for working parents, especially women, who are often hit hardest by the Child Care crisis. Citing case studies from a variety of industries, learn how progressive companies are using Child Care solutions to attract a new generation of workers, close the gender gap, foster equity, and support employees who need it the most. You'll gain actionable insights on how Child Care Benefits are enhancing diversity, reducing turnover, and creating environments where all employees can thrive. If you're ready to future-proof your workforce while driving positive change, this session is for you!
Ignite Employee Engagement: A Gamified Approach to Staff Development - 1944
Explore the transformative power of gamification in employee learning and development programs. In this session, we will discuss the foundations of game learning theory. Attendees will learn about Ignite, a pilot staff development program that incorporates gamification principles to engage employees in professional development activities at California State University, Fullerton. Program lessons, successes, and challenges will also be shared. Attendees will learn practical ideas for infusing gamification into their own employee training and development efforts. Join us to learn how gamification can boost engagement, enhance learning outcomes, and create a more dynamic and motivated workforce.
From Crisis to Clarity: SWAT Negotiator Strategies for Positive Resolutions - 2354
HR leaders often face challenging conversations including resolving conflicts, addressing performance issues, and fostering alignment during change. Retired SWAT negotiator Scott Tillema knows what it takes to navigate high-stakes situations where every word matters. In this engaging session, Scott shares proven strategies for breaking through barriers, building trust, and achieving positive resolutions in even the most intense scenarios. Learn how to approach difficult conversations with clarity and confidence, defuse emotional tension, and guide discussions toward meaningful outcomes. Through real-world stories and practical takeaways, Scott demonstrates how active listening, emotional intelligence, and strategic communication can transform workplace relationships and drive better results. Leave this session equipped with the tools to navigate conflict, foster collaboration, and turn challenges into opportunities for growth and connection.
The Ripple Effect: Building Social Capital to Transform Organizational Culture - 2037
In today's hybrid workplace, HR professionals face unprecedented challenges in maintaining organizational culture and employee engagement. This session reveals how understanding and leveraging social capital—the value inherent in professional relationships and networks—can transform workplace culture and drive organizational success. Drawing from extensive research and real-world examples, we'll explore how HR leaders can map and strengthen the informal networks that truly drive organizational performance. You'll learn practical strategies for building deep, trust-based relationships that enhance employee retention, improve collaboration, and create resilient organizational cultures.
Around the Water Cooler with The Office Ladies Clarity Over Chaos: Workplace Truths & Trends Moderated by Brad Rencher, CEO of BambooHR - 2656
Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey–co-hosts of the hit podcast Office Ladies and beloved cast members of The Office–join BambooHR CEO Brad Rencher for a Main Stage session that brings heart, humor, and fresh perspective to the chaos of modern work. Together, they’ll explore what’s changed, what hasn’t, and why culture still matters most. From hybrid schedules to AI anxiety, the workplace is full of new pressures–and old myths. This session cuts through the noise, separating fact from fiction with real stories, relatable insights, and more than a few laughs. Along the way, Brad will offer a practical framework for navigating today’s biggest shifts while staying grounded in what makes work with it: values, connection, and a sense of belonging. If you ever wondered what Dunder Mifflin would look like today, or how to build a culture that holds up under pressure–this is the conversation you won’t want to miss.
Ethics in HR: Restoring Confidence - 2124
In today's competitive business environment, companies are constantly striving to outpace their rivals. This often pressures management and HR to push boundaries. But is it right to test these limits? To see how far you can go before trust is broken? HR professionals must stay impartial, balancing the needs of both the company and its employees without compromising their integrity. Any lapse in ethical standards can undermine their effectiveness. SHRM's Code of Ethics underscores this responsibility. This session will highlight the importance of adhering to both the letter and the spirit of the law, emphasizing that the reputation of HR professionals and the entire field is at stake. Participants will also explore real-world scenarios where ethical dilemmas arise and discuss strategies to navigate these challenges effectively. Maintaining ethical standards is not just about compliance; it's about fostering trust and credibility within the organization.
Elevate Your Presence, Amplify Your Impact - 2087
Do you communicate effectively? Do people take you seriously? Do you have ‘leadership potential’? How skillfully you communicate can make or break your career. This is especially true for women, who often are taken less seriously when talking. While this is a cultural issue, there are strategies women can employ right away to shift the perception. Women are often seen as having less leadership presence, impacting career trajectories and compensation. Becoming aware of how these dynamics play out can help women navigate conversations more strategically, especially in high-stakes professional environments. There is one word that is kryptonite for women to use as it instantly diminishes their experience and expertise. In this fun and interactive session, we will get ahead of pitfall words and phrases as well as up talk and hesitation markers and replace them with gold: providing you with communication that will elevate your game, build skills and future proof your career.
Relational Intelligence: Accelerating High-Trust, Resilient, and Rewarding Relationships - 1412
In this dynamic and interactive keynote, social relationships expert and author of The Business of Friendship: Making the Most of Our Relationships Where We Spend Most of Our Time, Shasta Nelson presents a powerful framework for fostering meaningful connections that strengthen teams and boost engagement. Drawing on her extensive research and experience, Shasta introduces her proven “Three Requirements of All Relationships”as foundational tools to create and accelerate high-trust, resilient connections in the workplace. Through compelling data and case studies Shasta demonstrates that employees with strong friendships at work are nearly twice as happy, feel a greater sense of belonging, and are less likely to experience loneliness. These connections not only elevate how employees perceive their leaders and colleagues but directly contribute to improved productivity, retention, and overall organizational profitability.
HR Rising !! - Moving from Ownership to Leadership in Your HR Role - 1455
HR can shape, define, and implement people practices to drive a business's success. HR must transform from a "support" function to a leadership function by being fully integrated throughout an organization. This session breaks down the current state of HR's traditional approach and provides an exciting, relevant alternative. Learn how to awaken the leadership attributes that already exist in you personally and professionally.
Top Ways to Leverage Mobile Technology to Engage Your Distributed Workforce - 1830
Mobile tools provide anytime, anywhere access to all HR resources right in the palm of your employees' hands. Learn actionable ways to use text messaging and mobile web apps for benefits, onboarding tasks, training information, recruiting, and improved engagement, leading to higher company morale and efficiency. Join technology company founder, Dave Asheim, for an informative and interactive discussion on the latest mobile technologies used in human resources management. Participants will use their own mobile device to access real examples and tips on how to leverage mobile tech to: 1. Improve staff engagement with self-service web app portals. 2. Improve onboarding and other HR processes with two-way text messaging, digital forms, and interactive task lists. 3. Make training easier through texting, gamification, and mobile app modules. 4. Make informed decisions with data for improved accountability.
After We Fail: Why HR Decisions Die Before They Fly - 1875
As an HR leader, have you ever participated in a strategy meeting where you supported an exciting new – but expensive – change for the company, only to realize afterward you’re not a key decision-maker? Or you just finished presenting a groundbreaking idea that failed to impress leadership. Now what? Learn how to get the right decision-makers in the right place – and how to pump life back into a decision that’s DOA.
Goodbye Stress. Hello Life! Learn How to Prioritize Your Wellness and Start Living for YOU! - 1523
As human resource professionals, you have an important role to play in supporting the well-being of others. However, your own wellness must not be overlooked. In this fast-paced world, it’s time to slow down and create a work-life balance no matter what surrounds you. Drawing strength from Allan’s captivating stories of resilience and hope, you will be inspired to persevere through your personal challenges rather than avoiding or escaping them. After taking an honest look at what lies beneath your stress, you will explore a holistic approach to well-being. By participating in an interactive quiz, various hands-on activities, and the exciting game of PieFace, you will recognize the importance of prioritizing your mental health. Get ready to be energized, engaged, and inspired while taking time for number one!
Socioeconomic Inclusion: Bridging the Gap for a Diverse Workforce - 1550
This session will focus on the often-overlooked aspect of socioeconomic inclusion within Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts. Attendees will explore how socioeconomic disparities affect employee experiences, engagement, and career progression. The session will highlight strategies to address barriers related to educational and economic backgrounds, promoting a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Participants will gain practical insights on fostering an environment where individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds can thrive and contribute to the organization’s success.
Closing General Session - 2657
Leadership at the highest levels requires resilience, sound judgment, and the ability to navigate constant change. In this rare appearance, President Joe Biden will offer reflections on the enduring challenges and responsibilities that come with leading across sectors, generations, and global events. Drawing from decades of public service, his perspective will illuminate the qualities that define impactful leadership in times of transformation. This session will be in-person and livestreamed for registered attendees only. Recording, copying, or rebroadcasting is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action. All attendees entering the Main Stage will need to go through metal detectors. The restricted items will not be permitted into the Main Stage under any circumstances. • Luggage check will be available from 7 a.m. to noon in the Hall D Lobby at the SDCC. • Attendees can also livestream session on their personal devices through the attendee portal or app. Overflow viewing areas are available at the convention center at Spotlight Stage A (Sails Pavilion) or Ballroom 20A (Upper Level). • Doors are scheduled to open 75 minutes before the session start time. Attendees with accessibility and accommodation needs can enter 5 minutes prior to general doors opening at Hall H. Restricted Items: • No bags, food or beverage of any kind • Aerosols • Laser pointers • Ammunition • Mace/Pepper spray • Animals other than service/guide animals • Packages • Backpacks and bags of any kind • Selfie Sticks • Balloons • Signs of any kind • Bicycles • Structures • Coolers • Supports for signs and placards • Drones and other unmanned aircraft systems • Toy guns • Explosives • Weapons of any kind • Firearms • Any other items determined to be a potential safety hazard • Glass, thermal or metal containers This event is 18+ in accordance with SHRM’s Event Policies.
Rising Above the Storm: HR’s Higher Calling - 2655
After the turbulence of the past year, the HR profession stands more resilient, essential, and influential than ever. Does your work look and feel different now? It should. This session begins with the Ethical Leader of the Year Award (ELYA) Presentation, celebrating Fortune 500 CEOs who exemplify outstanding ethical leadership. Launched in 2022 as a partnership between the William G. McGowan Fund and SHRM, this prestigious award recognizes leaders who make sound business decisions that positively benefit people and society. Past winners include Charles Lowrey (Prudential Financial), Ed Bastian (Delta Air Lines), and Marvin Ellison (Lowe’s). Join us for the exciting live announcement of the 2025 award recipient and hear how today’s top CEOs are prioritizing ethics in the workplace. Following the award presentation, SHRM President and CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. will take the stage to reflect on how HR has braved the storms he forecast last year—emerging with a renewed perspective on what’s possible for the profession. With this fresh outlook, HR’s role evolves beyond managing change to setting the flightpath for what comes next: rebuilding displaced livelihoods and creating workplaces where everyone can rise to their full potential—and far beyond.
Creating a Culture of Civility, Inclusion, and Belonging with the SHRM Civility Toolkit - 2462
Incivility in the workplace continues to increase and has an overwhelming negative impact on productivity and profits. Since SHRM released the Civility Index in early 2024, acts of incivility have continued to escalate. 76% of US workers stated they have personally experienced or witnessed acts of incivility over the past month. Acts of incivility are costing businesses a loss of productivity of more than $2.7 billion dollars PER DAY (and increase of an average of 600m per day from Q3 2024). This is just not acceptable. As HR & business leaders, it is essential to act now! Join SHRM’s I&D Council to learn how to utilize the SHRM Civility Toolkit in creating a culture of civility, inclusion, and belonging at your organization.
SHRM Expo Open Hours - 2682
Discover the world’s largest HR solutions center at the SHRM25 Expo! Explore cutting-edge HR products and services, enjoy Bevi’s Standup 2.0 water coolers, get a free professional headshot at Checkr’s Headshot Studio, and join Paylocity Gives to give back to the community. Visit the Expo Theaters for education, demos, thought leadership and make sure to grab a Passport and collect stamps from exhibitors all around the hall to submit for a chance at a great prize!
What the SHRM Foundation Can Do For You - 2069
Every year, SHRM Foundation distributes over $700,000 in scholarships, grants, and awards and channels thousands of HR professionals through mentorship, training, and certification opportunities offered at low or no cost. Whether you are a student preparing to enter the field of HR, an emerging professional looking to find your way, a mid-career professional looking to grow and upskill, or a seasoned professional worthy of being celebrated for your contributions to the HR field, the SHRM Foundation has ways of supporting you on your journey. In this session, hear from Lana Williams, who leads our efforts to strengthen the HR field, about how you can access financial support for schooling, credentialing, or certification; engage in mentorship opportunities; get low or no-cost upskilling to make you more competitive; and nominate or be nominated for various awards.
Student Conference: Evidence-Based Decision Making: Important Metrics to Monitor as an Early-Career HR Professional - 2812
As the world of work continues to evolve, so must the role of Human Resources. No longer confined to administrative or transactional tasks, HR is increasingly positioned as a strategic partner—one that plays a critical role in shaping organizational success. But to truly lead in this space, HR professionals must be fluent in data that help them consistently deliver business-aligned results. In this session, we’ll cover the fundamentals of data maturity in HR—from descriptive reporting to predictive and prescriptive analytics—and how each stage unlocks deeper insights. We'll explore how data enhances HR’s ability to influence decision-making, improve employee engagement, and support smarter talent management, leadership development, and long-term workforce planning. Throughout the session, participants will be encouraged to see how HR can be a driver of sustained competitive advantage, moving from transactional to transformational.
Redefining the Human in Human Resources - 2685
As AI rapidly reshapes the workplace, HR leaders are uniquely positioned to lead with both innovation and integrity. This session explores how AI can enhance decision-making, personalize employee experiences, and streamline HR processes—without losing the “human” in human resources. Learn how to harness the power of AI responsibly to future-proof your HR strategy.
SHRM25 Expo Opening Reception - 2680
Experience the SHRM25 Opening Reception in the Expo Hall! Network with peers, explore innovative solutions, enjoy entertainment, and kick off the conference with energy and excitement.
Tuesday Night Entertainment Featuring Josh Groban - 2641
Enjoy your final evening at SHRM25 with special entertainment from Josh Groban! This will be an in-person only event and will not be livestreamed. Seating Schedule: Lining up for this event is not permitted until 5:00 pm. Reserved Accessibility & Accommodations Advanced Seating opens 5 minutes before general seating. General seating begins at 6:30 pm. Notice of Special Effects: Entertainment may include strobe lighting, flash photography, and special effects
Student Conference: Understanding, Evaluating and Negotiating Job Offers - 2811
This session equips participants with the tools and confidence to navigate job offers effectively. Learn how to interpret key components of an offer, compare opportunities beyond just salary, and approach negotiations professionally. Whether you’re evaluating your first job offer or looking to refine your negotiation skills, this session will help you make informed decisions that align with your career goals and values.
Speakers
Executive Assistant
SHRM
CEO
Out from the Shadows Consulting Inc.
EVP, People & Technology Practice Leader
HUB International
Award-Winning Actress, Bestselling Author, Co-Host
Office Ladies Podcast
Co-Founder
Upscaile AI Training & Automation
CEO
BambooHR
BR
GVP of People Analytics and AI
ServiceNow
Product Manager
Holmes Corporation
Compliance Practice Leader, South Region; National PEO Practice Leader
HUB International Limited
President
Adaptive HR Solutions
Attorney
Hall-Jackson & Associates P.C.
HR Associate
Events.com
CEO
CoLabL
Founder & CEO
Engage by Cell
CEO
C-Suite Analytics
Professor of Business
Indiana Institute of Technology
Adjunct Faculty/Sessional Faculty/ Director
International Business University/ Vocational Quest Inc.
Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships
TOOTRiS Child Care Benefits
Chief People Strategist
Gbkb LLC
Cofounder
Atlas Copilot Ltd
Founder & Change Catalyst
Working Solutions Group
Corporate Partnerships & Sales Success Lead
SHRM
Specialist, Exam-HR Content
SHRM
Lead, Human Resources - Talent & Employee Experience
SHRM
Award-Winning Actress, Bestselling Author, Co-Host
Office Ladies Podcast
CHRO
SHRM
46th President of the United States of America
President and CEO
SHRM
Tony, Emmy, and 5-time Grammy nominated artist
Director, Enterprise Product & Delivery
SHRM
Program Manager
SHRM
CEO
Brighter Strategies
Director, Talent
SHRM
Task Force General Manager
KAJ Hospitality
Director of Human Resources and Risk Managment
Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority
Strategic Solutions Consultant & Advisor – HCM Cloud
Oracle
Specialist, Talent and Employee Experience
SHRM
Lead Instructional Designer
SHRM
Director of Career Development
St. Mary's College of Maryland
Manager of Learning and Development
California State University Fullerton
Partner
Negotiations Collective
HR Business Partner
2024 HR Tomorrow Fellow
Relationship Expert, Author, and Speaker
Shasta Nelson
Analytics and Innovation Director
HR Florida State Council
Chief People Officer
Larosa's, Inc.
Lead, Academic & Affiliate Communities
SHRM
CEO
HRU Technical Resources
VP, Corporate Benefit Advisor
TOOTRiS
Recruiter
Eastridge Workforce Solutions
Distinguished University Professor Emeritus
University of Colorado Denver
Activities
SHRM25 Expo Opening Reception - 2680
Experience the SHRM25 Opening Reception in the Expo Hall! Network with peers, explore innovative solutions, enjoy entertainment, and kick off the conference with energy and excitement.
SHRM Expo Open Hours - 2682
Discover the world’s largest HR solutions center at the SHRM25 Expo! Explore cutting-edge HR products and services, enjoy Bevi’s Standup 2.0 water coolers, get a free professional headshot at Checkr’s Headshot Studio, and join Paylocity Gives to give back to the community. Visit the Expo Theaters for education, demos, thought leadership and make sure to grab a Passport and collect stamps from exhibitors all around the hall to submit for a chance at a great prize!
Tuesday Night Entertainment Featuring Josh Groban - 2641
Enjoy your final evening at SHRM25 with special entertainment from Josh Groban! This will be an in-person only event and will not be livestreamed. Seating Schedule: Lining up for this event is not permitted until 5:00 pm. Reserved Accessibility & Accommodations Advanced Seating opens 5 minutes before general seating. General seating begins at 6:30 pm. Notice of Special Effects: Entertainment may include strobe lighting, flash photography, and special effects
SHRM Expo Open Hours - 2683
Visit the SHRM25 Expo, the world’s largest HR solutions hub! Explore innovative HR products, enjoy Bevi’s Standup 2.0 water coolers, snag a free headshot at Checkr’s Headshot Studio, and join Paylocity Gives. Stop by Expo Theaters for education, demos, thought leadership, and win prizes with your Passport!