AVHRA Newsletter Spring 2024

President's Message

Dear AVHRA Community,

It's astonishing how swiftly spring has arrived! Amidst the changes unfolding in my workplace, I've realized I haven't had the chance to properly introduce myself to you. I currently serve as a HR Partner at Central Washington University (CWU), and for the first six months of 2024 I am fulfilling the role of Interim Director of Student Leadership, Involvement, and Community Engagement, dedicated to serving our students. With a background predominantly rooted in Student Affairs and a passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion, my journey at CWU began in 1998 as an undergraduate, and I've remained ever since. They say there's something in the Ellensburg water! Throughout my tenure, I've been in various roles. A couple of years back, I had the privilege of joining AVHRA, initially as the College Liaison, and now, I'm honored to take on the role of President this year. I eagerly anticipated this opportunity to serve alongside our outstanding board.

In February, the AVHRA Board held a retreat to strategize for the year 2024 and elect the new board members. Thank you to the Wenatchee Valley Chamber of Commerce for their hospitality! You can get acquainted with the team on our website. Our objectives for the year encompass tailoring programs to meet the community's evolving needs, enhancing our social media presence, fostering collaborations with other SHRM chapters, and deepening our engagement with you. One avenue through which we aim to facilitate engagement is by opening opportunities for you to interact with the board without necessarily committing to a board position. As you peruse through the various roles outlined on our website, you might find yourself intrigued to volunteer. We understand that life can be hectic, and serving on the board might not be feasible for you at this moment. However, you could contribute by supporting the programming team in event planning. Perhaps you have insights into potential topics or speakers we should consider inviting. Another avenue for engagement is by attending our events. We'll keep you updated about upcoming events through social media, our website, and newsletters. Events provide an excellent platform for networking and honing your skills. Currently, AVHRA is seeking a President-Elect. If you're interested in exploring how you can contribute, please reach out to me.

I look forward connecting with you at our events. Feel free to contact me or any of the board members if you have questions, suggestions, or feedback. Your input is invaluable as we strive to enhance AVHRA's services to better meet your needs.

Warm regards,
Verónica Gómez-Vilchis
AVHRA President

SHRM Webcast - The Heart of HR
April 23, 2024 from 9:00-10:00 a.m.
Change can be risky, difficult and uncomfortable, but doing nothing is often costly. This program looks at how to build meaningful connections across departments to unify efforts toward change and explores steps to cultivate positivity and practice self-care.
Register

Join us for Coffee with Colleagues!
May 10, 2024 from 3:30-4:30 p.m.
Locations: Wenatchee Starbucks (1925 N. Wenatchee Ave) -OR- Ellensburg D&M Coffee (325 N. Pearl St.)
Don't miss this chance to:

• Meet new colleagues and expand your professional network
• Discuss current HR trends and challenges in a casual setting
• Learn more about AVHRA and its benefits (if applicable)

No registration required - just stop by!