SHRM Michigan Vine - February 2026 Edition

Is anyone else so over all of this weather?! I am holding on for the sunshine and above freezing temps, which should be on the way in a few weeks. HANG IN THERE!

And honestly, this time of year at work can feel a little like Michigan winter. Long days, a lot coming at you, and not always a lot of visible sunlight in the middle of it all. Calendars have refilled since the holidays and leaders everywhere are figuring out how to turn intention into action. This is the moment to stay focused, hold the vision, and not let the daily fires pull you off your game or off what matters most, the humans. Good people trying to do good work. They deserve leadership and support that helps them succeed, not the split focused scraps left after projects and metrics get their share of attention. No people. No business. Prioritize the people and metrics will follow.

Quick but important update. SHRM Michigan is officially on the hunt for our next State Treasurer! We are incredibly grateful for everything Mary Dale has brought to this role over the past 3+ years, and her term will conclude on December 31, 2026. This role is essential to helping us steward resources, support our strategy, and keep us positioned to deliver strong value across the state. If you or someone in your network might be a great fit, check out the information and link later in this newsletter. Pro tip: Previous chapter involvement is a critical element for success in the Treasurer role. If you haven't been involved at the chapter level yet, start there 🙂

Thank you for showing up for this profession and for each other. Michigan HR is strong because of you. The work you do matters and makes a difference.

Keep it up.

XOXO,

Monica

Special Events for SHRM Michigan Chapters, Volunteers, & Resource Partners

2026 SHRM Michigan Treasurer

SHRM Michigan is looking for a treasurer!

Step into a leadership role that shapes the future of SHRM Michigan by serving as Treasurer on the Executive Council. This application invites finance-minded HR leaders to put their skills to work, influence strategy, and make a lasting impact on the HR community across Michigan.

Interested? Fill Out Our Treasurer Form!

Chapter Anniversaries

Happy 61 Anniversary to Southwest Michigan SHRM!

Upcoming Events

Speaker Portal OPEN

Interested in speaking at the 2026 MISHRM State Conference?

Fill out our application today!

Apply to Speak!

HR Award Nominations are open through March 15th.

Get your Nomination in today!

Nominate Now!

The SHRM Michigan Legal Virtual Conference delivers essential legal updates and practical guidance to help HR professionals strengthen compliant HR practices.

Upcoming SHRM Michigan & Local Events

SHRM Michigan Resources

Legal Update

Contributed by: James Reid IV, Esq.

SHRM Michigan Legislative Affairs Director

The National Labor Relations Board Regains a Quorum and Resumes Operations
o After nearly a year, the National Labor Relations Board (“NLRB” or the “Board”) has returned to full operation. Senate confirmations in mid-December restored both the Board’s quorum and permanent leadership at the General Counsel level, ending a prolonged period in which the agency could not act.
o Learn more, here

California Employment Law Updates Employers Need to Know for 2026

o California continues to expand employee protections across a wide range of workplace practices. Several new statutes and regulatory updates taking effect in 2026 will require employers to revisit notices, contracts, recordkeeping practices, and postings, as we previously reported on here. Below is a summary of four developments that should be on every California employer’s radar.
o Learn more, here

Inclusion Infusion

Contributed by: Verna Ginyard

SHRM Michigan Diversity Director

The 2026 Inclusion Infusion series will spotlight cultural diversity through the lenses of art, music, literature, entertainment, holidays, food, customs, and games. Each article will weave together rich cultural insights, practical workplace applications, and thoughtful opportunities for reflection, creating a yearlong journey that celebrates heritage, fosters inclusion, and strengthens community across our organization.

Spotlight: Art as a Universal Language

This month, we explore how artistic expression can strengthen connection and inclusion at work. Learn more, here

Reflection Question from Robin Chapekis, Upper Peninsula HRA Chapter President: "What piece of art best represents your cultural journey?"

Our 1st Quarter SHRM Michigan Diversity Director & Friends meeting will be on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 @ 6p. I look forward to connecting with you. If you’d like to present during a quarterly Diversity Director & Friends meeting or have any questions, do not hesitate to reach out to me: Verna Ginyard at v2ginyard@gmail.com.

SHRM Foundation

Contributed by: Sharon Ragland-Keys

SHRM Michigan SHRM Foundation Director

The SHRM Foundation is dedicated to elevating and empowering HR professionals by awarding more than $600,000 annually in scholarships, awards, and professional development grants. These investments support career growth, leadership development, and access to educational opportunities that strengthen the HR profession.

Access scholarships and grants open to our members, here.

Applications open on January 12 and close on March 13.

For more information on these scholarships and awards, visit the SHRM Foundation.

If you have any questions about the SHRM Foundation or need assistance with fundraising ideas for your chapter, feel free to reach out!

Call: 734.576.0867 | Email: sragland_keys@jovie.com

Looking forward to supporting you!

Grow your leadership impact in 2026. Join AG Collaborative’s FREE webinar series – practical & engaging sessions on leadership, communication, and workplace effectiveness. Grab your lunch, invite colleagues, and earn SHRM credits!

Learn more & register, here

Best Steps for Preventing Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, for both men and women. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one person dies from cardiovascular disease every 34 seconds in the U.S.

The biggest risk factors for heart disease can usually be controlled through a healthy lifestyle; however, some risk factors for heart disease cannot be controlled. Individuals who have a family history of heart disease are at higher risk of developing it themselves. In addition, the risk for heart disease increases with age.

However, with lifestyle changes and healthy habits, it is estimated that the majority of heart disease can be prevented. Read more here.

Please RSVP to Mary Lollini, MLollini@honigman.com

Is Your Employee Handbook Putting You at Risk?

Your employee handbook serves as the first line of defense in protecting your business and clarifying expectations for your team. As regulations and best practices evolve, it is essential to ensure your policies are current and compliant. An outdated handbook can expose your organization to unnecessary risks and create confusion among employees. By conducting a thorough review now, you'll ensure your organization doesn't just navigate 2026, but master it — fostering a workplace that is demonstrably clear, equitable, and compliant. Get a compliance review or email Elizabeth.Williams@rehmann.com to get started.

Master of Studies in Law - Human Resources 100% Online Program

February Virtual Information Session

Monday, February 23^rd, 6:00 p.m. via Zoom

Wayne Law’s Master of Studies in Law degree is specifically designed to help professionals build their knowledge of law relevant to the HR field. Join us for a virtual information session to learn all about this 100% online, flexible degree program!

RSVP to receive the Zoom details.

Yeo & Yeo HR Advisory Solutions (Amy Cell Talent) Upcoming Events

HR 360° Gap Analysis:

Discover how strong your HR foundation really is with our complimentary HR 360° Gap Analysis Assessment. In just 15–20 minutes, gain a comprehensive snapshot of your organization’s HR health from compliance and recruiting to performance management and development. Once completed, you’ll receive a complimentary 30-minute virtual review with a Yeo & Yeo HR Advisory Solutions specialist to uncover insights, spot gaps, and explore actionable next steps. Click here to begin your assessment today.

AMPLIFY Leadership Development On-Demand

Start your leadership journey with the AMPLIFY program—now available in a flexible six-month format that fits your schedule. Through personalized coaching, on-demand learning, and guided reflection, you’ll build self-awareness, strengthen your leadership skills, and gain clarity and confidence to lead with purpose. Every component is designed to meet you where you are and help you reach your next level of leadership. Click here to learn more.

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