End of Year Message from the State Director
It's hard to believe that 2025 is already drawing to a close. It feels like just yesterday we were ushering in the new year with fresh hopes and ambitions, and yet, in what seems like the blink of an eye, we've arrived at nearly the end of the year.
For the Wisconsin State Council SHRM, 2025 has been a dynamic year marked by transition, growth, and remarkable achievements. We've proudly hosted a series of impactful events, including our Workplace Policy Conference, Volunteer Leaders Conference, inaugural Student HR Summit, and another resounding success with our State Conference. Additionally, WI SHRM collaborated with fellow state councils to launch our first-ever HR Conference Cruise—an innovative venture that brought colleagues together in a truly unique setting. As we look ahead, you can anticipate these premier events and even more enriching opportunities in 2026.
In my first year as State Director, I've had the privilege of connecting with so many of you at chapter events throughout Wisconsin. These interactions have been invaluable, offering me a firsthand glimpse into the essential role our affiliate chapters play in advancing the missions of SHRM and WI SHRM within our diverse communities. Thank you for your warm welcome and for sharing your insights—I'm eager to build on these relationships during my travels in the coming year.
As we prepare to celebrate the holidays with loved ones, December also brings a sense of bittersweet transition for our council. We're bidding farewell to several dedicated members who've served with unwavering commitment, though we're fortunate they'll remain close to our community. First, a heartfelt thank you to Mary Vogl-Rauscher, our recent Southwest District Director, who will now lead as President of Dodge County SHRM—continuing her legacy of service at the local level. Next, immense appreciation to Amy Doepke, our Partnership and Sponsorship Director, whose expertise we hope will continue to shine on our State Conference Planning Committee. And finally, deep gratitude to Connie Bitter for her leadership as Treasurer, State Director-Elect, State Director, and Immediate Past State Director. We're thrilled she'll carry forward her leadership as one of our two 2027 State Conference Co-Chairs.
Beyond our Core State Council, many Chapter Presidents and board members are also moving on at year's end. To all of you transitioning off your boards: thank you for your tireless dedication to your chapters, SHRM, and WI SHRM. Your contributions have strengthened our profession immeasurably, and I sincerely hope you'll find new avenues to share your talents and continue making a difference in HR.
In closing, we wrap up 2025 with profound gratitude for those who've led us this year and optimism for the leaders stepping forward in 2026. Together, we'll ensure Wisconsin remains at the forefront of exceptional support, resources, and programming in the human resources field. Thank you for everything you do—your passion and commitment inspire me every day. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous new year!
Jeff Palkowski, MHRM, SHRM-SCP, PHR, PMQ
State Director 2025/2026
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