President's Report

Spring has sprung in Northwest Arkansas—and with it comes a renewed sense of energy, growth, and opportunity!

As President of the Northwest Arkansas Human Resources Association, I’m honored to serve a network of passionate, driven, and forward-thinking professionals dedicated to shaping the future of work in our region. Whether you’re new to the HR field or a seasoned leader, NOARK offers you a platform to grow, connect, and make a meaningful impact.

Our mission is simple: to advance the human resources profession by providing top-tier educational opportunities, advocating for excellence, and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community. Through regular meetings, professional development events, and networking opportunities, we’re here to support your journey and elevate the role of HR across all industries.

We’re also looking for members who are ready to step into leadership—we currently have open positions on the NOARK Board. If you’re passionate about serving the HR community and want to get more involved, we’d love to hear from you!

I encourage you to get involved, share your voice, and take full advantage of everything NOARK has to offer. Together, we can build stronger workplaces, drive innovation, and champion the people who power our organizations.

Thank you for being a part of NOARK. I look forward to what we’ll achieve together this season and beyond. 

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Thank you to our Sponsors!

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Calendar of Events

SHRM Foundation/Fundraising News

NOARK is excited to announce a range of sponsorship opportunities and initiatives for 2025. Your support will enable us to continue providing valuable programs and events for our community.

NOARK After Dark: We invite sponsors to cover the cost of appetizers and drinks (up to two per attendee) for this engaging event. Sponsors can select the venue, and we will assist with planning and coordination to ensure a seamless experience.

HR Sip & Share: This informal gathering takes place at a location chosen by the sponsor in NWA. We ask sponsors to cover the cost of coffee, but we welcome additional ideas to enhance the event.

Foundation Club Drawing: At each NOARK monthly in-person meeting, we sell tickets for a chance to win $100 cash. A one-time $1200 sponsorship includes recognition at every in-person meeting, your company logo displayed in our slideshow presentations, and acknowledgments in our newsletter and on social media, among other marketing opportunities.

Monthly Meeting Sponsorships: We offer various sponsorship opportunities that provide excellent visibility for your brand. These themed meetings cover topics such as Wellness, Benefits, and Compensation. Both Presenting and Supporting Sponsor opportunities are available.

Special Events: This includes our NOARK in the Park, and more. Various sponsorship levels are available.

For more details, please visit our website: NOARK Human Resources Association - Home Page, or contact me for more information!

Thank you for considering these opportunities. We are excited about the possibilities ahead and look forward to your support.

Best regards,
Alison Ward

[email protected]

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April Secretary's Recap

As April showers bring May flowers your local SHRM Chapter NOARK has been busy (planting seeds) preparing May’s Legal month for you. Legal month is one of my favorite months. You may ask, “Now why on Earth would you love Legal month, Secretary Sarah?”

Well, the answer is easy- reduction of fear through knowledge that in return builds confidence and self-esteem in daily operations thus enabling you to better support your employees and organization. One of the fastest ways to harm your organization and let your employees down is to miss legal / regulatory changes and changes in reporting within your organization.

Additionally, we spend so much time in HR and Leadership striving to be proactive while we are usually forced to be reactive. Having one month a year to provide clear information about legal changes, get into the legal mental awareness arena, learn the proposed changes, and changes to the changes, puts my mind at ease. Keeping up with requirements in today’s legal environment will increase your proactivity and lessen the need for reactivity in your daily operations. Knowledge and interpretations from experts in this area are key and will increase your ability to plan and adapt.

Typically, I enjoy legal implementations and adaptations in times of little or no change so that I can make sure that my organization is doing everything correctly. When we incur slower environments of legal change there is more time for proper implementation and strategic planning with employee social and psychological change management considerations.

Today, our legal environment’s changes have accelerated faster than in past times, reducing time for planning and implementation processes. Less time for planning leaves less room to address important foundations of change management and considerations of employee experiences throughout the implementation process. Less consideration of the psychological impacts of change for employees and their work environments can result in poor communication and reduced buy-in, weakening implementation and change acceptance.

While planning and implementation periods may be shortened, with every applicable legal change HR Professionals and Leaders must strategize sensitive communication planning and always consider the psychological and social impacts of legal changes for employees and leaders regardless of time to implement. As an HR Professional and Leader, you are your Organization's, Leaders', and Employees' advocate. 

In April, your NOARK President, Vice President, and Secretary (me) attended the ELLA (Employment Law and Legislative Affairs) Conference in Little Rock. Below is a list of topics that were covered. If you were not able to attend ELLA, please be sure to go to NOARK’s website and register for the NOARK Post ELLA Legal Panel, where we will bring you a review of the most pressing topics, proposed changes, and changes: NOARK Human Resources Association - Meeting/Event Information .

Topics at ELLA 2025 included:

·       DWS Unemployment and Reemployment

·       First one hundred days of 2025: Changes in OFCCP, EEOC, Employment Law

·       EEOC Update

·       Immigration: What we know, What we can Expect, How employees can prepare

·       AR 95^th General Assembly Update

·       Governmental Reporting Obligations for Employers & Their Health Plans

·       The Good, the Bad and the Ugly of AI in HR

·       School House Rock: Civics Policy and Compliance for HR Professionals

Following the ELLA conference, on April 16, 2025, SHRM published an article titled, “Supreme Court Case Could Refine Religious Exemptions." (https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/employment-law-compliance/supreme-court-case-could-redefine-religious-exemptions)

Here is an example of how fast HR topics with the Federal Government are being examined and reconstructed. While the title may sound terrifying, the article relates to non-profit religious organizations who provide services to secular groups and the question of if they should be exempt from paying into a state unemployment system. Upon hearing only the title, some may think, “Oh my what now?” However, a broad title for this subject currently only applies to small fractions of the market, at least for now.

NOARK’s May Attorney panel will kick off on Thursday May 8, 2025, at 11:30 am -1:00 pm CST. You can register at this link:  NOARK Human Resources Association - Meeting/Event Information .

Let NOARK assist you in supporting your organizations best practices and regulatory compliance through education and a chance for you to ask a panel of Legal Counselors about your concerns and needs. We hope to see you there!

As always, it is a pleasure working with the NOARK Team and you, the Professionals upholding and practicing the best HR and Leadership practices across our area.

Your Secretary, 

Sarah Alonzo, SHRM-SCP

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Inclusivity Committee

Please enjoy a review of the wonderful resources below from NOARK's Inclusivity Chairman Alie Streeter.

Book Recommendations:

1.     The Inclusive Organization: Real Solutions, Impactful Change, and Meaningful Diversity by Netta Jenkins:

      Celebrated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) expert Netta Jenkins delivers a timely and hands-on resource designed to help people and organizations improve DEI initiatives and scale them throughout a company. Using included worksheet examples and toolkits, you’ll create your own customized DEI roadmap you can apply immediately. The techniques discussed within are ideal for changing your company’s culture and aligning it with the future of business and commerce.

The author clearly explains the “how” of DEI implementation, showing you actionable steps that have increased diversity in real companies and can do the same in yours. She uses a combination of inspired and vulnerable storytelling and firsthand observations to bring to life important concepts, frameworks, and strategies that drive successful DEI initiatives. You’ll also find a complete formula for DEI improvement that works at any company, large or small, and in virtually any sector or industry.

2.     The Diversity Gap: Where Good Intentions Meet True Cultural Change by Bethaney Wilkinson

      A fearless, groundbreaking guide to help leaders at every level shatter the barriers that are causing diversity efforts to fail.
Combining real-world research with honest first-person experiences, racial justice facilitator Bethaney Wilkinson provides leaders a replicable structure to foster a diverse culture of belonging within your organization.

With illuminating and challenging insights on every page, you will:

Better understand today’s racial climate and its negative impact on your organization and team.

Be equipped to shift your organizational culture from one that has good intentions for “diversity” to one that addresses systemic barriers to all employees thriving at work; and be emboldened to participate in creating an organizational culture where people from various racial backgrounds are growing in their purpose, 

making their highest contributions, and collaborating effectively towards greater impact at work and in the world.

Ultimately, The Diversity Gap is the quantum shift between well-intentioned organizational diversity programs that do little to move the needle and a lasting culture of equity and belonging that can transform your organization and outpace your industry.

1.     Racial Justice at Work: Practical Solutions for Systemic Change Paperback by Mary-Frances Winters

       This thought-provoking, solutions-oriented book offers strategic advice on how to adopt a justice mindset, anticipate and address resistance, shift power dynamics, and create a psychologically safe organizational culture. Individual chapters provide pragmatic how-to guides to implementing justice-centered practices in recruitment and hiring, data collection and analysis, learning and development, marketing and advertising, procurement, philanthropy, and more.

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Inclusivity Calendar of Events

May 2025 Inclusivity & Diversity Calendar Highlights

May is a month rich with observances that highlight diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being. Being aware of these dates is an opportunity for HR professionals to engage with various cultural, social, and health-related issues. These observances provide a platform to acknowledge diverse backgrounds, recognize the unique challenges faced by different communities, and promote a more inclusive and supportive workplace.

For HR professionals, these dates are not only a chance to raise awareness but also to create opportunities for dialogue, education, and policy development. Whether focusing on mental health, celebrating heritage, or supporting those who serve in the military, these observances foster a culture of respect, empathy, and belonging. By acknowledging these awareness months, HR leaders can help ensure a more inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and supported.

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Celebrates the history, culture, and contributions of AANHPI communities in the U.S. This month is an opportunity to uplift diverse voices, address challenges faced by these communities, and promote cultural understanding.

Mental Health Awareness Month

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about mental health and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. This month encourages open conversations, education, and resources to promote mental well-being. It’s an opportunity for organizations to provide support, foster healthy workplace environments, and ensure employees have access to the resources and tools they need to maintain good mental health.

National Military Appreciation Month
May is National Military Appreciation Month, a time to honor the individuals who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces, as well as their families and the sacrifices they make. Throughout the month, we celebrate Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 9^th) which recognizes the resilience and dedication of military spouses who support their families and communities and Armed Forces Day (May 17^th) which acknowledges the contributions of active-duty military personnel. This month is an opportunity to express gratitude, support veterans and active-duty service members, and raise awareness about military service and the unique challenges faced by military families.

Jewish Heritage Month

Jewish Heritage Month is a time to reflect on the achievements and challenges faced by the Jewish community, from arts and sciences to social justice and public service. This month offers an opportunity to recognize the diverse Jewish heritage, promote understanding, and foster an inclusive environment that celebrates the values of unity, resilience, and tradition.

Better Hearing & Speech Month
Dedicated to raising awareness about communication disorders and promoting the importance of early detection and treatment. This month encourages individuals to learn more about hearing loss, speech and language disorders, and the ways to support those affected.

Older Americans Month

Celebrates the contributions and achievements of older adults. Promotes age inclusion in the workplace and raises awareness of ageism and generational diversity.

National Pet Month

National Pet Month celebrates the positive impact pets have on our lives, promoting the mental and physical benefits of pet ownership. It’s a great time for workplaces to highlight pet-friendly policies and the importance of pets in supporting employee well-being, while encouraging responsible pet care and adoption.

May 1 – International Workers’ Day (May Day)
International Workers' Day, also known as May Day, honors the contributions and rights of workers around the world. It is a day to recognize the labor movement, promote fair wages, workplace safety, and workers' rights, and advocate for social and economic justice. Celebrated in many countries, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to ensure fair treatment and equality in the workplace.

May 1 – Beltane (Pagan and Wiccan)
Beltane is a traditional Pagan and Wiccan festival celebrating fertility, renewal, and the height of spring. Marking the midpoint between the spring equinox and summer solstice, it is often observed with bonfires, dancing, and rituals that honor the earth’s abundance and the blossoming of life. It’s a joyful time for connecting with nature and celebrating growth, creativity, and new beginnings.

May 5 – National Day for Awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
This day brings attention to the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people in the U.S. and Canada. It honors the lives lost and calls for justice, accountability, and systemic change. Organizations can observe this day by raising awareness, wearing red in solidarity, and supporting efforts that amplify Indigenous voices and promote safety, equity, and healing within Native communities.

May 5 – Cinco de Mayo
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. While widely celebrated in Mexico, it holds special significance in the U.S. as a day to honor Mexican culture, heritage, and the contributions of Mexican Americans. The day is marked by festivities including parades, music, dancing, and vibrant cultural celebrations, highlighting the richness and diversity of Mexican traditions.

May 12 –Vesak/Buddha Day (Buddhist)
Vesak, also known as Buddha Day, is the most significant Buddhist festival, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Siddhartha Gautama who is also known as the Buddha. It is observed with prayers, meditation, and acts of kindness and compassion. Many Buddhists mark the day with visits to temples, offerings, and community service to honor the Buddha’s teachings of peace, mindfulness, and nonviolence.

May 15 – Global Accessibility Awareness Day
Global Accessibility Awareness Day is dedicated to promoting digital access and inclusion for people with disabilities. It highlights the importance of creating technology, websites, and digital tools that are usable by everyone, regardless of ability. Organizations can use this day to evaluate their digital environments, raise awareness, and commit to building a more inclusive and accessible world.

May 17 – International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia
IDAHOTB is observed to raise awareness of the discrimination and violence faced by LGBTQ+ individuals around the world. It’s a day to promote inclusivity, respect, and equal rights, while encouraging communities and organizations to take a stand against homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia. Celebrating diversity and fostering a culture of acceptance can help create safer, more supportive environments for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

May 21 – World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development promotes the value of cultural diversity and the importance of fostering dialogue between cultures. This day encourages understanding, cooperation, and respect for all cultural backgrounds, aiming to create inclusive societies where diversity is celebrated. It’s an opportunity to highlight the role of culture in promoting sustainable development, peace, and mutual respect across the globe.

May 26 – Memorial Day
Memorial Day is a solemn occasion to honor and remember the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. Observed on the last Monday of May, it is a day of reflection, gratitude, and respect for those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation. Many people commemorate the day by visiting cemeteries, attending memorial services, and participating in community events to pay tribute to fallen service members.

May 29 –Ascension of Baha’u’llah (Baha’i)
Commemorates the passing of Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Bahá’í Faith, in 1892. It is one of the holiest days for Bahá’ís and is observed with prayer, reflection, and remembrance of his teachings on unity, peace, and equality. Work is typically suspended during this sacred observance as followers honor his life and legacy.

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Membership

JOIN SHRM + LOCAL CHAPTER!

Benefits of SHRM Membership

• Personalized Content
• Legislative Resources & Updates
• Member Community
• Free Webcasts
• Discounts on SHRM Events and Educational Offerings
• Thousands of HR-Related Resources and More!

Benefits of NOARK Chapter Membership

• Network with local HR professionals
• Gain insights on HR best practices
• Discover local career advancement opportunities
• Earn PDC's for SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification

NOTE: Chapter membership expires at the same time as your current SHRM membership, regardless of enrollment date. Any applicable Chapter dues will be prorated based on the number of months remaining on your current SHRM membership.

*NOARK is a 100% membership chapter, which means you must also be a member of the national SHRM organization (www.shrm.org).

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