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  • January Chapter Meeting - From Gatekeepers to Change-Makers: HR’s Role in a Shifting Landscape with speaker Rick Smith, EdD

January Chapter Meeting - From Gatekeepers to Change-Makers: HR’s Role in a Shifting Landscape with speaker Rick Smith, EdD

  • 01/14/2025
  • 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
  • UofL Shelby Campus 450 N Whittington Pkwy Room 218c

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Program Description

In a rapidly evolving professional world, HR professionals hold the unique power to redefine their roles from traditional gatekeepers to transformative change-makers. This keynote will explore how HR leaders can address unconscious biases, foster mentorship, and integrate DEI principles even in challenging legal and organizational environments. Through personal stories, data-driven insights, and actionable strategies, I will challenge attendees to reimagine HR practices to build workplaces where everyone can thrive.

About the Speaker

Dr. Rick W. Smith Sr., CFRL, CCDP, is a seasoned leader with more than 30 years of experience in higher education administration, nonprofit leadership, healthcare, public relations, marketing, and television news. He currently serves as President-Elect of Dallas College Northlake, part of the Dallas College system, known for its innovative programs and strong community partnerships. Dr. Smith will officially begin his tenure as President on February 3, 2025.

Previously, Dr. Smith was Senior Vice President of Administration and Institutional Advancement at Simmons College of Kentucky, the state's only private HBCU, where he also taught Organizational Ethics.

He is a published author and speaker. His book, "They Keep Moving the Goalpost: How to Move Around Obstacles and on to Opportunities," has been on the Amazon Best Sellers list.

Dr. Smith holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Bradley University, a Master’s in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University, an MBA from Kennedy Western University, and a Bachelor's in Broadcast Communication from the University of Louisville. He has additional credentials from Cornell University and Indiana/Purdue University.

An active member of Rotary International, the NAACP, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and Sigma Pi Phi, Dr. Smith is the proud father of two adult sons, Rickey W. Smith Jr., and Rashard W. Smith.

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