Hello SESHRM Members,

It's hard to believe we're already heading into the final stretch of summer. While many of us are balancing vacations, back-to-school preparations, and workplace priorities, this time of year also offers a chance to reflect on our professional growth and reconnect with the goals we've set for ourselves and our organizations.

At SESHRM, we're looking ahead to an exciting season of professional development, leadership opportunities, and member recognition, and I'm excited to share what's coming up this month

Join Us for Our August Chapter Meeting

One of the most important responsibilities HR professionals face is maintaining safe, productive workplaces while navigating an ever-changing landscape of substance use, testing requirements, and legal considerations.

Our August program will tackle these timely challenges:

Trends in Substances of Abuse and Implications in the Workplace Presented by Tim Heerts, MA, LPC, LMFT, CEAP EAP Clinical Specialist | D.O.T.-Qualified Substance Abuse Professional Avera Employee Assistance Program

August 18,2026 11:30am - 1:00pm Hilton Garden Inn Sioux Falls South

Tim brings more than 35 years of counseling experience and extensive expertise helping organizations address complex workplace issues. During the session, attendees will gain insight into emerging substance abuse trends, the challenges associated with impaired employees in the workplace, and the evolving policy and testing considerations surrounding marijuana.

Whether you're reviewing existing policies or preparing for future workplace challenges, this session promises practical knowledge you can apply immediately.

We're excited to see the strong interest in this topic, with more than 150 registrants already signed up.

Board Elections Are Coming Soon

Serving on the SESHRM Board is one of the most rewarding ways to contribute to our profession while helping shape the future of our chapter.

This fall, we will be seeking candidates for several leadership positions:

• President-Elect
• Secretary
• Programs Director
• Certification Director (SHRM certification required)

If you've ever considered becoming more involved, I encourage you to explore these opportunities. Our chapter thrives because members are willing to share their talents, ideas, and leadership. Board service offers a unique opportunity to build your professional network, develop leadership skills, and help drive the strategic direction of SESHRM.

Watch for additional information regarding nominations and elections in the coming weeks.

HR Excellence Award Nominations Are Open

One of the initiatives I'm most excited about this year is the launch of our new SESHRM Quarterly HR Excellence Awards.

HR professionals are often the people behind the scenes helping organizations succeed, developing talent, creating positive workplace cultures, navigating change, and supporting employees through both challenges and opportunities. These awards give us a chance to recognize and celebrate those contributions.

Nominations are now open for our inaugural award period:

July - September 2026 Quarter Nominations close September 30, 2026

We encourage you to nominate an HR professional who embodies leadership, integrity, innovation, and a commitment to advancing the HR profession within our community.

Some of the qualities we're looking to recognize include:

• Significant contributions to the HR profession
  
• Leadership and mentorship of others
  
• Commitment to ethical practices and professional excellence
• Meaningful impact within their organization
  
• Active engagement in SESHRM and the broader HR community
  
  

One recipient will be selected each quarter, and all quarterly recipients will be eligible for annual chapter recognition.

I know our membership includes many deserving HR professionals. Please take a few moments to recognize a colleague whose work deserves to be celebrated.

Stay Connected

If you haven't had the chance lately, don't forget to check out the SESHRM Podcast. It's a great way to stay connected to our chapter, hear perspectives from HR leaders, and continue learning between monthly meetings. The podcast has become another valuable resource for our members, and we're excited to continue expanding its reach and content.

As a proudly SHRM co-branded chapter, SESHRM remains committed to providing the best of both worlds: local connections and programming tailored to the Sioux Empire alongside the resources, advocacy, and professional standards provided through our partnership with SHRM. Together, we're helping advance the HR profession while supporting professionals at every stage of their careers.

Thank you for your continued engagement and support of SESHRM. I look forward to seeing many of you at our August meeting and appreciate all that you do to make our chapter strong.

Lucinda Noronha