Professional development

HR Magazine, June, 1996

Seminar programs also continue to grow, generating registration income of more than $1 million. The most popular programs are the Certification Review Course, the HR Generalist Program and the Advanced Generalist Program.

Much of the success of the Society's educational products can be attributed to the improved SHRM Learning System, an educational tool for human resource professionals seeking certification and for others interested in a general overview of the human resource function.

SHRM Learning System sales exceeded $2 million during 1995, surpassing 1994's high mark of $1.7 million and up 646% from 1990. The Society has partnerships with more than 70 universities at 90 locations for use of the Learning System. In addition, two new university - programs Advanced Management and Advanced Employee Labor Relations - were introduced during 1995.

Equally noteworthy is the growing number of human resource professionals who recognize the value of certification as an integral part of their career development. HRCI has been certifying human resource professionals since 1976 and awards the designation of Professional in Human Resources (PHR) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) to individuals who pass an exam and have professional human resource experience. In 1995, for the eighth consecutive year, HRCI had a record number of examinees. The 7,708 examinees in 1995 represent a 49 percent increase over 1994 and a 276 percent increase since 1990.

Finally, if SHRM is to maintain its leadership in the human resource profession, the Society must help sponsor the latest in research and information. The Society responds to that challenge through the SHRM Foundation.

During 1995 the Foundation gained greater visibility, funding many research proposals and six doctoral dissertations. Foundation-funded books published during 1995 include The Federal Wage and Hour Laws, Conducting Lawful Terminations and The Contingent Worker. In addition, the Foundation backed chapter efforts to support students in the transition from school to work and sponsored student scholarships.

The Foundation plans to move in many new directions this year, thanks to continued support from HRCI, SHRM, the Society's national committees and volunteer leaders. The HRCI Board voted to contribute $475,000 of its reserves to the Foundation in 1995, an example of a unique partnership that sets SHRM apart from other professional membership organizations. HRCI has contributed more than $1 million to the Foundation in the past four years. The Foundation's reserves now exceed $2 million, a 232% increase since 1990.