SHRM Leadership Live: HR Hot Topics
Aug 11, 2026 11:30am - 01:00pm CDT
Meeting VirtualOrganizer
Jayhawk SHRM
Location
August's meeting will be virtual only
Once you've registered you will be provided the link to the meeting.
Pricing
Zoom: $10.00
Today's HR Challenges. Tomorrow's Solutions.
The world of HR is changing faster than ever. New legislation, evolving workplace expectations, emerging technologies, talent challenges, and economic uncertainty continue to shape how organizations support their people.
Join Jayhawk SHRM for a special Hybrid HR Hot Topics Panel Discussion, where you'll have the opportunity to attend either in person or virtually while hearing from SHRM volunteer leaders representing the national, state, and district levels.
This interactive conversation will explore today's most pressing HR issues, emerging workplace trends, and what HR professionals should be watching as we move through 2026 and beyond. Whether you're joining us in the room or online, you'll have the opportunity to ask questions and gain valuable insights from experienced HR leaders.
Discussion Topics
Our panel discussion may include:
Federal and state legislative updates impacting employers
Emerging workplace trends and workforce planning
Recruitment, retention, and employee engagement
Artificial intelligence and technology in HR
Compliance updates and regulatory changes
Workplace culture and employee relations
SHRM initiatives, resources, and upcoming opportunities
Challenges and opportunities facing HR professionals today
Live audience Q&A
What You'll Learn
By attending, you'll:
Stay informed on current HR trends and emerging issues.
Gain practical insights from HR leaders serving at the national, state, and district levels.
Learn about resources available through SHRM, Kansas SHRM, and your local chapter.
Connect with fellow HR professionals from across the region.
Leave with ideas and strategies you can immediately apply in your organization.
Interactive Q&A
Have a question you've been wanting to ask HR leaders? This meeting is designed to be interactive. Submit questions during registration or ask them live during the discussion. Whether your organization is facing a specific challenge or you're simply curious about where the profession is headed, this is your opportunity to hear multiple perspectives from experienced HR leaders.
Who Should Attend?
This program is ideal for:
HR professionals at every career stage
Business owners and organizational leaders
Supervisors and people managers
HR departments of one
Consultants and service providers
Students and emerging HR professionals
Anyone responsible for leading or supporting people in the workplace
Attend Your Way
Choose the format that works best for you:
In Person: Network with fellow HR professionals while participating in the discussion live.
Virtual: Join remotely via Zoom and participate in the conversation from wherever you are.
No matter how you attend, you'll receive the same valuable discussion, expert insights, and opportunity to engage with the panel.
Registration
Register today to reserve your seat—whether in person or online.
Registration includes your choice of in-person or virtual attendance.
Certification Credit
This program has been submitted for SHRM Professional Development Credits (PDCs) and HRCI recertification credit.
Credit approval is pending.
Featured Panelists
James Abeyta Stevens, MA, LMHC, SHRM-CP, PHR
Former SHRM Southwest Central Membership Advisory Council Representative
James Abeyta Stevens is a former representative on SHRM's Southwest Central Membership Advisory Council (MAC), where he served as a liaison between SHRM volunteer leaders and the national organization, helping communicate the needs and perspectives of HR professionals throughout the region.
James brings more than two decades of human resources leadership experience and currently serves as both a licensed mental health therapist and Chief Human Resources Officer for his organization. His unique background in HR and behavioral health provides valuable insight into leadership, employee well-being, organizational culture, and the evolving workplace.
Ashley Esquibel, SHRM-SCP
Kansas SHRM Secretary/Treasurer
Ashley Esquibel serves as the Secretary/Treasurer for Kansas SHRM, helping provide leadership and support for the statewide council and its local chapters. She is a longtime SHRM volunteer leader and past president of SHRM Topeka, where she has served in numerous leadership roles and remains actively involved in developing HR professionals through certification education and chapter engagement.
Professionally, Ashley serves as the Chief Administrative Officer for Envista Credit Union, bringing extensive experience in human resources, organizational leadership, and strategic operations. She is passionate about advancing the HR profession through collaboration, education, and servant leadership.
Cindy Volanti, SHRM-SCP
Kansas SHRM North District Director
Cindy Volanti serves as the Kansas SHRM North District Director, partnering with local chapters throughout northern Kansas to provide support, resources, and leadership development. She is a longtime HR leader dedicated to helping HR professionals connect, grow, and succeed.
Jennifer McAferty, MLS, SHRM-CP
President, Jayhawk SHRM
Jennifer McAferty serves as President of Jayhawk SHRM, providing leadership and strategic direction for one of Kansas' premier SHRM chapters. She is passionate about delivering meaningful educational programming, fostering professional connections, and creating opportunities that support the growth and success of HR professionals throughout the region. Beginning in January 2027, she will serve as the Kansas SHRM North District Director, further supporting SHRM chapters and HR professionals across northern Kansas.