She was so interested in everyone, particularly new HR professionals. She wanted to see everyone succeed in their professional careers as well as their personal life. She always found time to talk to everyone at socials/mixers and PIHRA meetings – all of them! Her passion and I mean extreme passion for the HR profession was never lost on anyone. She promoted the profession, PIHRA, and carried the torch to be sure each professional was certified. She was very proud that she was one of the first to earn her SPHR credentials and encouraged and mentored many to obtain their credentials.

Anita championed the student competition that SHRM now hosts and immersed herself in the development of the format. She volunteered for this event any time she was able, she encouraged teams to compete and recruited volunteers. She never missed an opportunity to talk with the students and find out what their career aspirations were and to help them make connections.

Anita helped me when I started consulting. She engaged me with some of her consulting projects and introduced me to her contacts. She was bound and determined to see that I had every opportunity to succeed. She did with and for several HR professionals – she knew there was more than enough projects for everyone and that we are all unique in our talents and ways of working with clients.

My favorite memory was Anita recruiting me for the student (games) competition. Originally, named games when she introduced the event. She lit up talking about the students, how bright they are , how much she learned from them. She told me I would never forget the experience and she was right! However, it was watching the students seek her out that is my favorite memory. She lights up a room, challenges everyone to do more/better, and boosts everyone up with thoughtful honest feedback and compliments.