When great minds come together, terrific things happen. That’s the premise behind the theme for this year’s SHRM Annual Conference—and the reality behind HRCI and its affiliated organizations. When professionals put their best into the profession, we benefit not only ourselves but our employers, employees and customers.

In 2008 HRCI is boosting marketing and messaging efforts by applying results from the synergy of “great minds.” We’re addressing what we learned in the Value of Certification Study and building on the Branding Initiative to define and expand the HRCI brand in the domestic and international business worlds. We continue to explore avenues to expand our program internationally as well. It is through the synergy of all involved that we will achieve high levels of achievement and success.

I appreciate all the “great minds” that have contributed to HRCI’s success—and look forward to the terrific things the certified community will make happen this year. In particular, I would like to extend a special "thank you" to all those involved in the exam development process from item development to item review and exam review. It is through these dedicated volunteers that we have certifications that reflect the human resources profession. Don’t miss the article in this issue about how you can volunteer to play an even greater role as we pursue success through synergy in the coming months.

I hope to see you when “Great Minds Come Together” at SHRM’s 60th Annual Conference and Exposition in Chicago, June 22-25. You’ll enjoy special HRCI features, earn recertification credits and build professional relationships. HRCI will send you all the details once you register for the conference.

Thank you for being among the “great minds” who continually build the value of the PHR, SPHR, GPHR and PHR-CA/SPHR-CA certification to professionals, employers and the profession.

Connie Rank-Smith, SPHR, CEBS, CMS
2008 HRCI Chair
Vice President of Human Resources
Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, Neenah, Wisconsin