How the HR Person of the Year Awards program is Empowering the HR Leader Advancement

The HR Person of the Year Awards program is proud to introduce a new professional‑development initiative designed to advance the HR community and remove barriers to career‑changing credentials. This year, we are awarding two (2) Human Resources professionals with a full SHRM Certification Grant, including enrollment in the prestigious Temple University, Fox School of Business SHRM Certification Prep Course & SHRM Certification Testing. Honorees will need to be present at the April 29, 2026 HR Person of the Year Awards event to accept the grant. Applications due no later than March 23, 2026 @ 12:00 PM – scroll to the bottom of the page to complete! 

This grant supports emerging and established HR practitioners who demonstrate commitment to the profession, a passion for continuous learning, and the drive to elevate their impact in the workplace. Whether you’re preparing for your SHRM‑CP or SHRM‑SCP, this opportunity provides both the academic preparation and financial support needed to reach your next milestone.

www.noncredit.temple.edu/shrm

The Fall 2026 SHRM Prep Course is a 12‑week, fully online synchronous program featuring weekly 2‑hour live sessions (typically 6:30–8:30 PM). Designed to streamline your studies and accelerate learning, the course incorporates real-life HR scenarios to strengthen understanding, application, and engagement with key SHRM competencies—providing a focused and effective exam-prep experience.

 www.phillyshrm.org

Earn recognition and showcase your HR expertise with SHRM-CP® and SHRM-SCP® certifications. These credentials validate your ability to address real-world challenges, setting you apart as a leader in human resources. Backed by SHRM, they offer flexible learning, competency-based testing, and universal relevance. Employers value these certifications as benchmarks of HR excellence, advancing careers while driving workplace success.

What the Grant Includes

Each recipient will receive:

• Full tuition for the Temple University SHRM Certification Prep Course
• Guidance and resources to prepare for the SHRM‑CP or SHRM‑SCP exam
• Recognition during the HR Person of the Year Awards program

Who Should Apply

This program is ideal for HR professionals who:

• Are seeking SHRM certification to advance their careers
• Demonstrate leadership, integrity, and commitment to the HR profession
• Have a track record of supporting people, culture, or organizational excellence
• Are ready to invest in their growth—with the help of a community that believes in them
• Are a current member of a SHRM chapter within the HR Person partnership

Both early‑career professionals and seasoned HR practitioners are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Applicants will be asked to submit:

• A brief personal statement describing their HR journey and career goals
• A summary of how SHRM certification will enhance their professional growth
• Optional support materials (résumé, recommendations, or examples of HR impact)

Applications will be reviewed by a panel of HR committee leaders committed to recognizing and developing talent across the region.

Why This Grant Matters

Professional certification can open doors to new leadership opportunities, strengthen strategic HR capabilities, and empower professionals to drive meaningful change within their organizations. By offering this grant, the HR Person of the Year Awards program continues its mission to celebrate excellence while investing directly in the future of the HR profession.

If you’re committed to growing, leading, and shaping the future of human resources, we encourage you to apply. Applications are now closed – be sure to check back for 2027 updates!