Yes, we understand that “The New Role of HR Leadership in Healthcare” is a big undertaking that will require time, energy and resources – from ASHHRA and from all of us. You should know, however, that ASHHRA’s Executive Committee and Board are aligned with the HR Leadership Initiative and that we are ready to respond to the challenge for leadership in HR. We are committed to helping HR professionals acquire the core competencies so necessary in today’s healthcare environment.

My response also comes from a sincere recognition that this challenge affects us individually. Each one of us will be called upon to:

• Honestly assess our strengths and weaknesses;
• Thoroughly examine our gaps in knowledge and skills;
• Commit to new growth and learning;
• Model passionate dedication to the mission of healthcare; and
• Influence and inspire others.

As a fellow HR executive and your president, I also am embarking on the leadership path. This means that I will be assessing my own gaps and reflecting on how they impact those around me. I’ll be seeking new skills, new knowledge and new ways of doing things – and, like you, I will be looking to ASHHRA for guidance and support.

On behalf of ASHHRA, I invite you, my HR colleagues, as well as others in our healthcare community, to become involved in this endeavor. Our promise to you is that we can advance the cause for HR Leadership. We have a purpose – to raise our skills. And the power – to raise our voices. Please join me in stepping up to the challenge!

Sincerely,
Kathryn M. Fisk
ASHHRA President 2005
and
Vice President of Human Resources
Brockton Hospital
Brockton, Massachusetts