Students Attend 2024 SHRM National Conference in Chicago

Experiential learning opportunity allows students to learn more about latest industry trends

Alvernia students represented the Alvernia Student Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) at the SHRM National Conference at the McCormick Center in Chicago, IL. alongside 28,000 students from across the nation.

"Attending this conference is an experience like no other," said Associate Professor of Business, Beth Berret, Ed.D., MBA, SPHR, SHRM SCP. "This annual conference hosts practitioners from around the world. Students have an opportunity to attend professional sessions and learn more about the challenges, rewards, and latest information in the legal/management/HR arena. In addition, students attend the exposition which displays all the technology and services available to the practitioner. Students who attend this conference often return with a renewed interest in HR or an interest in an area they never knew existed."

The SHRM National Conference is the world's largest convention of human resource (HR) professionals. Leaders in HR and business come together at the event to discuss new methods for addressing the most pressing issues in the workplace, foster professional connections and empower current and future HR professionals to expand their knowledge base and apply it to their work. The purpose of Alvernia's SHRM student chapter is to acquaint students seeking careers in human resource (HR) management, management or labor relations with experiential learning opportunities and knowledge on current issues and trends in these fields through opportunities like the SHRM National Conference.

"Attending the SHRM 2024 Conference in Chicago was an amazing experience that expanded my understanding of human resources and business management," said MBA Candidate and SHRM Student Chapter President, Nicholas King. "We explored new products, met with professionals, listened to speakers from various diverse specialties, and enjoyed discovering the city. The conference brought together HR professionals from across the globe, offering a rich mix of learning, networking, and exposure to the latest industry trends. As the SHRM student chapter president, I also had the chance to strengthen my leadership skills, make meaningful connections, and gain insights for my future HR career and the club."

Alvernia's merit-winning student SHRM chapter is recognized locally by the Berks County SHRM Chapter. Sponsorship affords our students networking opportunities with professional chapter members during monthly meetings. The professional chapter also helps to sponsor events such as our on-campus Job Fair. Student members have been active participants in various community events such as Toys for Tots, Road Run, MADD fundraisers, and the chapter's Annual Animals Need Food, Too campaign. SHRM has also participated in Christmas on Campus, the Turkey Drive, and Trick-or-Treat for Unicef for community service projects.