The Great River HR Association (GRHRA), the Quad Cities’ largest association dedicated to advancing the field of human resources, has announced its 2025 board of directors.
In a news release, GRHRA said the focus in the coming year will be on fostering connections, empowering HR professionals, and driving meaningful growth within the community.
Under the leadership of Chapter President Bobbi Jo Cox, SHRM-SCP, the organization is set to build on its mission of supporting HR professionals with networking,
education, and professional development opportunities. Ms. Cox is the HR director for McCarthy-Bush Corp., Davenport.
These are the newly elected officers and committee chairs:
- Executive board: Bobbi Jo Cox, president; Shelly Chapman, president-elect/vice president; Dr. Joanna Davis, past president; Caroline Dach, secretary; and Rachel Ricketts, treasurer.
- Committee chairs (all new board members): Carmen Schram, certification director; Jen Palar, college relations director; Sydney Larson; Vandy Gohain, workforce development chair; and Michelle Harrell, social media director.
- Committee chairs: Cory Holloway, inclusion and diversity chair; Jeannine Wolf Omerza, membership director; Leonna Ellis; Liz McCreddin, social media director; Cheryl Riley-Hayles, SHRM Foundation chair; Allison Wright, legislative chair; Jeff Wright; and Matt Rednour and Tally Neofotist, sponsorships.
Visit GRHRA’s website for a complete list of board members.
GRHRA has earned recognition as a Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) Learning System Champion and continues to thrive as a dual-membership chapter with SHRM.
The local association’s new initiatives will include Small Group Connections, a program designed to foster deeper collaboration among members based on shared interests or industries.
In addition, GRHRA will host several marquee events in 2025 including:
- Ignite Conference, April 9, Rhythm City Casino, Davenport. A full day of learning, networking and connecting for HR Professionals and business leaders.
- Fall Legal Update, November. A comprehensive look at legislative developments affecting HR.
- Summer Civility Event, August. A look into I&D and Civility in the workplace.
- Quarterly Membership Meet-Ups. Morning and evening sessions across Iowa and Illinois beginning Tuesday, Feb. 18
With free local membership for SHRM members, GRHRA offers a variety of benefits, including: career development through certification programs; legislative updates; and networking opportunities with HR professionals and business leaders.
“Strong HR leaders are the backbone of thriving organizations,” said Ms. Cox said in a news release. “By empowering our members, we aim to strengthen not only their careers but also the businesses and communities they serve.”
