Rising Up: Reflections from SHRM 2025

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In June, I had the privilege of attending the SHRM 2025 Annual Conference in San Diego—a powerful and emotional experience that marked both a professional milestone and a personal triumph.

Thanks to a generous grant from the SHRM Foundation, I was able to participate fully, with all travel, lodging, and meals covered. As part of that application, I shared my journey: launching Cardinal HR Consulting, LLC in 2022, being diagnosed with breast cancer in May 2023, and earning my Master’s in Leadership and Human Resource Development from LSU in December 2023.

This was my first solo trip since treatment began—a true milestone in my recovery. I arrived with anticipation and left with restored confidence and a deep sense of connection.

A Conference to Remember

From the opening Parade of States on Sunday (where Louisiana showed up in full force, proudly waving our flag and snapping our fans to “Boots on the Ground”) to the final sessions on Wednesday, SHRM 2025 was a rich experience. I reunited with colleagues, met new friends, and soaked in ideas from some of the brightest minds in HR.

One of the most meaningful moments came on Monday, when SHRM President and CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr. took the stage. As the song “Rise Up” by Andra Day filled the auditorium—the very song that helped me through cancer treatment—I felt a powerful sense of affirmation. Johnny spoke about “being the buffalo”—meeting the storm head-on, rather than running from it. That message resonated deeply, not just in my personal life, but in the work I do every day in HR.

Two of the keynote speakers shared stories that hit close to home. Actress Jenna Fischer (The Office Ladies podcast) is a cancer survivor herself, and former President Joe Biden—only recently announced as having cancer—delivered a powerful message about perseverance and leadership through adversity. Their stories reminded me that healing doesn’t just change you—it strengthens you.

Beyond the Breakout Sessions

The conference was filled with joyful and energizing moments: attending a private event at The Shout House piano bar hosted by BambooHR, enjoying a live performance by Josh Groban, and reflecting with fellow HR professionals after sessions ended. Our Louisiana group gathered on Sunday night after the opening reception and brought warmth, laughter, and connection to the experience.

I also took time to explore San Diego. I visited the Japanese Friendship Garden, watched whales at sunset off the coast of Mission Beach, and—on Thursday, after checking out of my hotel—decided to take one more solo adventure to Point Loma Lighthouse.

A Moment I Won’t Forget

At Point Loma, I discovered a steep trail down to the tidal pools. The park ranger warned me: no cell service, and whoever hiked down must hike back up. I hesitated. I was still regaining strength after months of treatment and surgery. But I also knew I needed to prove something to myself.

I made the hike down—and it was beautiful. Standing by the water, I was reminded how often we find ourselves in life’s valleys, searching for clarity, peace, or purpose. But the real growth comes in the climb back up. It wasn’t easy. It took time. But I made it to the top. And in that moment, I felt like myself again—strong, determined, and full of life.

Why It Matters

This trip reminded me why I do what I do. Whether I’m guiding a workplace investigation, developing a leadership training, or helping a team navigate change, I bring the same mindset: face the hard things, and rise up.

This wasn’t just a conference. It was a turning point.

I am HR.

I can do this.