HR Forum connects the community

Human Resources Services hosted its third HR Forum this week focusing on a theme of Engaging and Innovative HR. The event was designed to engage and support University community partners who perform human resources-related work regularly and featured a packed agenda.

Attendees were provided with an update on University and HR strategies and priorities with presentations from both Roger Couldrey, Vice-President Administration and Wanda McKenna, Assistant Vice-President and Chief Human Resources Officer. Couldrey shared highlights where HR work is performed based on information gathered from the recent Uniforum benchmarking initiative and service effectiveness survey. McKenna shared her thoughts on shaping the tone and culture of the organization, highlighted recent achievements and interesting statistics about the employee community here at McMaster.

Attendees enjoyed a thought-provoking panel discussion on progressive HR practices, featuring internal and external speakers including Arig al Shaibah, AVP, Equity and Inclusion, Catherine Connelly, Associate Professor, DeGroote School of Business, Sandra Corelli, Vice President, Corporate Class Inc. and Christine Miners, Director, Verity International Ltd. The speakers shared their experiences on recent innovative accomplishments in their field, and from other organizations. 

More than 160 participants rotated through a mindfulness session with Dr. Parmjit Singh and six different breakout sessions on a variety of HR related topics ranging from New Career Pathing Frameworks to Supporting others through retirement transition.

“McMaster is fortunate to have so many great employees that are committed to making McMaster a great place to work,” said Wanda McKenna, Chief Human Resources Officer. “The HR Forum is a great opportunity to bring together a diverse group of individuals from across the campus community into one room to share knowledge, best practices, innovative ideas and to advance how we deliver HR services to the University.”   

If you have questions about any of the content presented at the forum, or want to learn more, please reach out to Christine Costa at (905) 525-9140 ext. 21535.