February 2026

Hello GMA SHRM Members,

I hope the new year is off to a good start for you. As we move through the first couple of months of the year, it’s been great to see our GMA SHRM community actively participating, connecting, and continuing to invest in professional growth.

We began the year with a strong Professional Development Summit (PDS) on January 20. The speakers, topics, and discussion made it a valuable experience, and I appreciate everyone who joined us and helped make our first PDS of the year a success.

Behind the scenes, the GMA SHRM Board of Directors has been busy planning for the year ahead. During our strategic planning retreat in January, we focused on setting priorities and ensuring we continue to deliver relevant programming and value to our members. We also mixed in some fun with an escape room challenge, seeing which group could solve the puzzles and make their way out first.

We’re also beginning to look ahead to the next board year starting in July 2026 and have started our succession planning. If you’re interested in getting more involved, whether through committee work or volunteer leadership, we encourage you to explore current opportunities. Additional information is available on our “Get Involved” page, or you can reach out to Wanda Manning, President Elect, at wlmanning@wisc.edu.

Here’s a look at what’s coming up:

February 18–19 – WISHRM Workplace Policy Conference
Wisconsin State Council SHRM Event
New Location! Marriott Madison West, Middleton, WI

Registration is now open!

March 12 – Meet, Greet & Eat
Connect over lunch at Tipsy Cow in Sun Prairie – share stories, enjoy great company, and engage in conversation.

Register today to reserve your seat!

March 17 – Professional Development Summit (PDS)
Join us for our next PDS featuring two dynamic sessions:

Session 1: Conflict Resolution: The Flawed Pursuit of Resolution – Anna Nielsen
Session 2: Artificial Intelligence: Me, My Office, and AI – Dr. Clare Fowler

Be sure to register today and secure your spot!

SAVE THE DATE: Our annual Human Capital Conference will be held Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Alliant Energy Center.

Our HR Advice Network Roundtables are also underway for the year. These virtual sessions take place on the first Thursday, second Tuesday, and last Wednesday of each month and provide a space to share challenges, exchange ideas, and connect with peers. Registration details are available on our website.

Lastly, we need your help spreading the word to the next generation of HR professionals. GMA SHRM is offering two $750 student scholarships to Wisconsin college students who are pursuing a career in human resources. It’s a great way to support students as they get ready to enter our profession. If you know a student studying HR, encourage them to apply. The application process is simple, and the deadline is February 28.

Thank you for being part of GMA SHRM. I hope to see you at an upcoming event.

Warm Regards,

Ashley Kowalchuk, SHRM-SCP, PHR
President, GMA SHRM
ashley.kowalchuk@iconicacreates.com

Government Affairs & Legal Updates

Understanding Travel Time Under the FMLA

Submitted by Submitted by Emmerson Mirus, Brian P. Goodman, and Storm Larson, Attorneys at Boardman & Clark LLP, a Platinum Partner

Emmerson Mirus

Brian Goodman

Storm Larson

The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) gives eligible employees job-protected leave to care for their own serious health condition or to care for an eligible family member with a serious health condition. This leave can be taken continuously or in smaller blocks of time, such as a few hours to attend a medical appointment. The federal Department of Labor (DOL) which enforces the FMLA recently issued guidance which explains that when an employee takes intermittent leave to travel to an appointment, the travel time spent between work and the appointment is also covered under the FMLA. Thus, employers may not penalize an employee who needs to travel--even a significant distance--to attend a medical appointment or take a family member to an appointment.

The medical certification that an employee turns in ahead of taking the leave should specifically identify the frequency and duration of the leave so that employers can anticipate when an employee will need to be away from work based on an FMLA-qualifying event. If an employer suspects that an employee is taking detours unrelated to the purpose of the medical leave, an employer may be able to count some of the time as an unapproved absence.

The FMLA can raise challenges for even seasoned HR professionals. Following all the technical rules is important. It is equally important to avoid jumping to conclusions when a potential leave appears to be excessive. FMLA fraud is hard to prove. Communicate clearly with the employee and request more information when legally permissible. Denying FMLA or considering termination should be done in consultation with legal counsel.

Return to Top

Compensation and Benefits

2025 GMA SHRM Compensation Survey Now Available!

Survey release November 2025

Competition for employees across all industries is at an all-time high, leading to rapidly escalating salaries. The GMA SHRM Compensation Survey provides up-to-date local, regional and national benchmarks to help you get a better handle on this challenging labor market.

Local data available to GMA SHRM members for $95.
Region, State, and National Data also available.

Conducted by Gallagher Surveys, this general industry survey collects base salary, bonuses, total cash, salary ranges and HR policy data for more than 180 jobs common across all industries.

Visit our Compensation Survey page for more details.

Return to Top

RoundTrip Greater Madison Wants to Partner With You!

RoundTrip is a public program in Dane County that makes commuting easier for your team. Our online resource hub and mobile app help employees connect with carpool and bike partners, explore options like biking, walking, and riding the bus, and join the Dane County Emergency Ride Home Program, which gives carpoolers and car-free commuters confidence by providing Union Cab vouchers to get home in unexpected situations.

For employers, one of the best features of RoundTrip is the ability to create a dedicated workplace network where employees can connect with colleagues—or with any of the 1,500+ Dane County commuters already on the platform—to carpool or bike to work. Employees can also join our seasonal transportation challenges as part of your workplace team, competing with others and logging sustainable trips for chances to win prizes donated by local partners.

Partnering with RoundTrip expands commuting options for your employees, supports hiring and retention, and showcases your commitment to sustainability. If you’d like to highlight your impact, we can provide customized data showing your organization’s results over time in dollars saved, CO₂ avoided, and sustainable trips made.
Ready to chat? Email roundtrip@cityofmadison.com to set up a time to talk about your workplace’s transportation needs and request a dedicated network for your employees. It’s quick, easy, and completely free.

RoundTrip is a public program of the Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization that connects individuals and employers in Dane County to convenient, affordable, and sustainable alternatives to driving alone.

Professional Development and Events

March Professional Development Summit

March 17, 2026
Alliant Energy Center

Session 1: Conflict Resolution: The Flawed Pursuit of Resolution

In this session, learn skills and strategies to build your confidence in approaching and navigating conflict, whether you are caught off guard or have ample time to prepare. You can take the pressure off by building your skills without the pressure to be perfect.

Session 2: Artificial Intelligence: Me, My Office, and AI

This session looks at 6 distinct phases of our workday and provides hand-on demos of AI tools that can assist. Together, we will walk through the set-up and application of these tools. There is also a discussion of the ethics around these tools and security. Most of the tools suggested will be free, but a chatGPT pro account is preferred if possible.

More Information and Registration

Return to Top

2026 Member Roundtables Open for Registration!

Join us for these virtual discussions facilitated by members!

During Roundtables, members discuss their emerging HR challenges and when possible, others offer possible solutions, support, and resources. Come with those questions top of mind for your organization, offer your own experience and best practices, or simply join to network with others by using the registration links below.

Roundtables are designed for human resource professionals who are interested in sharing their ideas and experiences in a confidential environment. It is expected that what members share in these roundtables will stay within the roundtable. We encourage members to exchange contact information and reach out to each other outside of these meetings to expand on the discussions.

Roundtables are held 3 times per month!

First Thursday
Second Tuesday
Last Wednesday

Roundtables are a member only benefit so if you're not a member, join us or reach out to learn more!

More Information and Registration

Return to Top

SHRM Certification Prep Sessions - Spring Summer

GMA SHRM is excited to announce our Spring/Summer 2026 SHRM Certification Prep Sessions designed to support those preparing for the upcoming SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam during the May 1, 2026 – July 15, 2026 test window

These virtual prep sessions are free and open to all exam candidates—whether you are a GMA SHRM member or not.

Who should attend?

Individuals actively preparing for their SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam
Those enrolled in the UW Small Business Development Center’s study class
Self-studiers using the SHRM Learning System or other exam prep tools

What to expect:

All sessions are held on Zoom
Connection with peers who are also preparing for the exam
Opportunities to share knowledge, study strategies, and lessons learned

Tips, tricks, and practice questions covering both multiple-choice and situational judgment questions

More Information and Registration

Return to Top

2026 Wisconsin Workplace Policy Conference

Join us for Wisconsin SHRM’s 1.25-day Workplace Policy Conference, where HR professionals, business leaders, and industry partners unite to explore the future of workplace governance and public policy to honor past successes while driving the meaningful change needed to stay ahead of evolving workplace trends. This year’s event features dynamic keynotes, interactive workshop sessions, and a robust vendor and networking fair—connecting attendees with innovative partners and solutions that support compliant, agile, and future-ready workplaces.

More Information and Registration (WISHRM Site)

Return to Top

The 2026 GMA SHRM Human Capital Conference

Save the Date!

Workforce Readiness, College Relations, Diversity & Inclusion

Board Spotlight: Workforce Readiness

Submitted by Ambar Aguirre Sanchez, SHRM-SCP- Human Resources Generalist at Veridian Homes and Director of Workforce Readiness

Our Workforce Readiness Committee supports job seekers in the greater community through volunteer-driven programs that build skills, confidence, and professional connections. The committee partners with local organizations to provide job coaching, resume and interview support, and career guidance, while participating in job fairs, business expos, and community events. If you’re passionate about giving back and helping individuals prepare for meaningful employment, this committee offers impactful ways to get involved while expanding your professional network. Please reach out to Ambar Aguirre Sanchez here for more information.

Volunteer Spotlight – Alexey Yudchenko

Name, job title, current employer
Alexey Yudchenko, HR Generalist, St. Vincent de Paul - Madison

How long have you been a member of GMA SHRM?
Since January 2023

How long have you been a volunteer with GMA SHRM?
I started in the Human Capital Conference Planning Committee in August 2023

What committee(s) have you volunteered with? What’s been your role with the committee(s) or why did you choose that committee(s)?
I have been involved with the Workforce Readiness Committee since January 2024. I help search for new opportunities for our committee members to serve our community. I love this committee because our goal is to help the community to be ready for work, polish resumes, prepare for interviews, and start their dream job.

Why do you volunteer with GMA SHRM?
I received so much support from many people when I was establishing my life and career here in Madison that I feel a calling to help others

What would you say to others who are unsure about volunteering with GMA SHRM?
I recommend looking at different committees, checking descriptions of their activities, maybe trying to visit several different committees, talking to different committee members, and then seeing where you can contribute. It is very rewarding to develop the committee activity of the SHRM chapter in the Greater Madison Area.

What’s been the biggest “surprise” to you since being a member of or volunteer with GMA SHRM? (Something you didn’t know about the chapter before, or something you think others may not know, or a fun-fact about GMA SHRM leadership, etc.)
I was very impressed with the willingness of the GMA SHRM Workforce Readiness committee members and friends to help community members improve their resumes and prepare for job interviews. They freely share their knowledge and skills and are really interested in helping others.

What’s been the biggest “reward” for you since volunteering with GMA SHRM?
The most important thing is the network. This gives the opportunity to connect with colleagues from different companies and industries, share your knowledge, and learn from them.

Return to Top

GMA SHRM Student Scholarships - Help Us Support Future HR Leaders

GMA SHRM is proud to offer two $750 Student Scholarships to Wisconsin college students pursuing a career in human resources. This is a great opportunity for students to gain support as they prepare to join our profession.

How You Can Help:
Know a student studying HR? Encourage them to apply! Applications are due February 28, 2026, and the criteria are simple.

Details:

Two and four-year students eligible
Must be enrolled in an HR-related program at a Wisconsin college or university
Selection based on academics, leadership, and HR interest

For full details and application instructions, visit https://www.gmashrm.org/studentscholarship or share this link with students you know.

Let’s invest in the next generation of HR professionals!

Return to Top

February and March Observances

The DEI Committee has formally launched its new purpose statement! The committee is excited to reframe our work and align it with GMA SHRM’s strategic goals. We hope this new statement will inspire meaningful engagement and strengthen our collective commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable workplaces across our community.

DEI Committee Purpose Statement

The GMA SHRM DEI Committee’s core purpose is to curate learning experiences and resources that reflect the diversity of today’s workplaces. Through collaboration and co-creation, we elevate underrepresented voices and foster inclusive partnerships to build a community rooted in equity, belonging, and shared growth.

We would love to recruit some new members to help us expand our reach. Please email deicommittee.gma@gmail.com with your interest.

Return to Top

GMA SHRM and Member News

GMA SHRM 2026-2027 Board of Directors Nominations Now Open

GMA SHRM is seeking current members to serve on the 2026-2027 Greater Madison Area SHRM Board of Directors beginning July 1, 2026. If you are looking for a way to grow, support, advance and shape the HR profession, this is a great opportunity for you!

Self nominations and recommendations are open now through Friday, February 20th.

Serving on the GMA SHRM Board of Directors offers a unique chance to:

Support the Largest Wisconsin SHRM Chapter: Contribute directly to the well-being of the largest SHRM chapter in Wisconsin and one of the most respected in the nation.
Shape Member Benefits: Influence member benefits and programming, including a calendar providing over 25 certification credits annually.
Guide Community Outreach: Play a role in directing how GMA SHRM contributes to the development of the Madison area workforce.
Collaborate with HR Leaders: Work closely with other HR leaders to give back to the HR profession in the Madison community.

Visit our GMA SHRM Board of Directors Nomination page for more information.

Serving on the Board is a gratifying experience with benefits for the volunteer, their employer, the Chapter, and the community. If you're interested or want to learn more, please feel free to contact us. Your involvement can make a meaningful impact.

More Information

GMA SHRM – Retiree Membership

Have you retired from a career in the HR profession or do you know someone who has? Want to stay connected to friends and the profession while also giving back? GMA SHRM now offers a Retiree Membership option. Dues are discounted to $25 for a 12 month membership for all retired HR professionals.

To qualify you need to have been employed in Human Resources and no longer represent a company. We ask Retiree Members get involved and join a committee and/or participate in monthly HR Advice Network group meetings (roundtables).

For more information, visit our Retiree Membership page.

Return to Top

Welcome New Members!

GMA SHRM welcomes the following members who joined our chapter in December 2025!

Ashley	Cords	Logan Pass Construction
Heather	Curnutt	BOARDMAN CLARK LLP
Dan	Roe	The Perk
Antonina	Singer	Ho-Chunk Gaming Madison
Tessa	Sliwa	Expedia
Krista	Sterken	Exact Sciences

Return to Top

Congratulations to these members celebrating milestone anniversaries!

1 Year! (2026)
RaeAnne Turner
Autumn Hutchens, SHRM-CP
Chezney Phelps
Danielle Hepting
Dillan Schneider
Tracy Mast
Ben Nelson
Erich George
Angela Wilcox
Rebecca McEachen, SHRM-CP
Abbey Priebe, SHRM-CP
Anna Waters, SHRM-CP
Teresa Zick
Holly Casavant
Haley Gooebiddle, SHRM-CP

10 Years! (2016)
Jenna Heller

15 Years! (2011)
Pam Peterson, SPHR

25 Years! (2001)
Michelle Kraemer, PHR, SHRM-CP
Larry Wiersum, SPHR

Return to Top

HR InTouch Guidelines

Article Writing:

Do you have an interest in writing for the HR InTouch? We have an interest in learning more about your area of expertise!

Why should you volunteer? Top three reasons: 1) to share your knowledge and experiences to educate others; 2) to become more connected in the HR and Dane County communities; and 3) to contribute towards the advancement of GMA SHRM and the HR profession.

The first step is for you to choose a submission option: you can pre-submit an article to GMA SHRM at any time for us to use in any of the upcoming newsletters, you can sign up to write for a particular month, or we can put you on a list of people to contact in future months whenever we need articles.

Article length:

Because the HR InTouch is now in an online format, the size is flexible. The article should be engaging and hold readers’ attention. Include the core information in your article, and we will advise if it is too lengthy.

Solicitation:

GMA SHRM is conscious not to allow solicitation through the articles, in an effort to protect the interests of our partners and members. The nature of the article should be educational (i.e., what are the business advantages of having a product like yours) or informational. Otherwise, if you truly are interested in advertising through the HR InTouch, you can work with our Marketing Committee. As a rule of thumb for article writing, if the submission relates to a for-profit event, or specifically markets your company (vs. your industry), it is an advertisement, and should be purchased. If it is a not-for-profit event that your company is hosting, or an announcement (i.e., a SHRM member recently joined your company), it is an acceptable addition to the HR InTouch content. If you have any questions related to the appropriateness of your submission, please contact us.

If you have questions, or to submit an article, contact GMA SHRM at chapteradmin@gmashrm.org .

Don’t forget to add us on Social Media to see updates, events, general HR knowledge, and more!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GMASHRM
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gma-shrm

Return to Top

February 2026

HR InTouch