June 4-5, 2024: Human Resources Professionals Conference
This event is made possible by generous sponsorships by vendors and partners in the disability services field. Please consider supporting our partners by clicking here and learning more about them.
Want to network? Click here for the PARTICIPANT LIST!
Click on the links below for available presentations and further session information.
Day 1: Tuesday, June 4
SESSION 1 – 10:35-Noon
Leave Management: The ABCs of the ADA, FMLA, PFL, & NYSLL, too!
Richard D. Landau, Partner, Jackson Lewis
This session will guide HR executives through the mandates on employers (as well as employee burdens) as staff seek time off and/or pay for their own (or a family member’s) medical reasons and reasonable accommodations. We will emphasize how consistently following (and documenting) a process creates the best results in getting staff back to work, managing them out of the workforce if appropriate, and defending against claims.
SESSION 2 – 1 PM-2:15
DEI Panel on Agency Best Practices
Melissa Roth, Vice President of Human Resources, Aspire of WNY
Rhonda Howard, Director of Human Resources, The Resource
Center
Emerson “E.” Pickert, Human Resources Administrator, The Resource Center
In this session you will learn how to support your employees and foster an environment of equity and inclusion. By sharing what has worked and lessons learned, two agencies will walk you through their journeys, as they strive to build a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
SESSION 3 – 2:20-3:35
Strategies for an Effective Corporate Wellness Program
Edward Probst, President, Vanguard Benefits
Bethany Brown, Director of Human Resources, Racker
In this engaging session, Bethany and Ed will share their insights on the key components necessary for building and sustaining a successful corporate wellness program. Through the exploration of best practices, case studies, and practical implementation strategies, attendees will gain valuable knowledge on fostering a culture of well-being within their organizations. This discussion will provide you with actionable insights to enhance employee health, productivity, and overall organizational performance. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the experts and take your corporate wellness initiatives to the next level!
SESSION 4 – 3:50-4:50
Navigating Complaints and Investigations for Human Resources Staff
Melissa Zambri, Partner, Barclay Damon
Margaret Surowka, Partner, Barclay Damon
This session will guide HR executives through the mandates on employers (as well as employee burdens) as staff seek time off and/or pay for their own (or a family member’s) medical reasons and reasonable accommodations. We will emphasize how consistently following (and documenting) a process creates the best results in getting staff back to work, managing them out of the workforce if appropriate, and defending against claims.
Day 2: Wednesday, June 5
SESSION 5 – 8:30-9:30AM
Performance Management
Richard D. Landau, Partner, Jackson Lewis
Most employers worry about how to fire employees without legal repercussions. But, what if you could avoid complicated discharges before they happen? Well you can, and it depends, in part, on how well and accurately you evaluate your staff. This program will provide some proactive approaches to improving performance through effective evaluations and, alternatively, setting the stage for a better supported termination decision.
SESSION 6 – 9:35-10:35
How Benefits Assist with Attracting & Retaining Employees
Dave Melby, Vice President, NFP
Christina Villecco, Senior Vice President, Compliance Counsel, Pilot RB
Robert Flicker, Senior Vice President, Corporate Synergies
Victor Dezelic, Senior Vice President, Corporate Synergies
A panel of benefits and compliance specialists will engage in an interactive Q&A on workforce trends by generation and the changing nature of employee benefits in today’s multigenerational workplace landscape. The conversation will include the differing benefits demands by generation, compliance considerations and challenges for employers, attracting and retaining employees, the role of workplace policies with respect to employee benefits, and creative solutions to the unique challenges employers face today.
SESSION 7 – 11-12:30
Shaping the Future: A Transformative Workshop for Innovative I/DD Leaders
Dr. Hassan Abdulhaqq, Vice President of Talent Acquisition, Development and Engagement, AHRC Nassau
In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, effective leadership is paramount for organizations serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). This transformative workshop is designed to equip current and aspiring I/DD leaders with the essential skills and mindset required to drive innovation, navigate change, and shape a future where individuals with I/DD can thrive.
Through a blend of interactive sessions, thought-provoking discussions, and hands-on activities, participants will embark on a journey of self-discovery and professional growth. The workshop will explore cutting-edge leadership frameworks, strategic thinking techniques, and practical tools to foster a culture of innovation within I/DD service organizations.
Throughout the workshop, participants will have the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals, share best practices, and engage in meaningful discussions that challenge traditional paradigms. By the end of this transformative experience, attendees will emerge as innovative leaders equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to shape a future where individuals with I/DD can reach their full potential.