Calendar of Events

Presented by Christine Beldner, MSHRM, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

As HR professionals, we are leaders in our own right—often the first call in a crisis, the go-to for solutions, and the bridge between employees and executives. But who supports HR? The very nature of our role can create a sense of isolation, making it difficult to find trusted confidants, share challenges openly, or receive the same level of support we provide to others. This session will explore the unique isolation HR leaders face, its impact on decision-making, engagement, and personal well-being, and how to break the cycle. We’ll discuss strategies for building peer networks, fostering executive buy-in for HR well-being, and redefining what leadership support should look like—not just for the C-suite, but for HR itself.

At this lab, Christine will share information on:

• HR as the Leader: Recognize the unique challenges HR faces as a leadership role and the often-overlooked isolation that comes with it.
• Breaking the Isolation Cycle: Learn how to build strong support systems—both within and outside the organization—without breaching confidentiality or professional boundaries.
• Creating a Culture of Support: Explore strategies HR can use to foster leadership connection at all levels, ensuring that support is a shared responsibility.
• Self-Sustaining HR Leadership: Identify key tactics for prioritizing HR well-being and continuous development while maintaining influence and credibility as an organizational leader.

Christine Beldner is the Vice President and Senior Human Resources Consultant for IRONWOOD Business Consulting, LLC. Christine’s passion is supporting small businesses with all aspects of business operations. Christine serves business as a strategic partner to develop and implement a clear road map for success leaning on her 24 years of experience. Further, Christine’s skill set is the perfect fit for any organization that desires to transform their culture, develop their employees, and implement organizational change. Christine’s depth and breadth of experience allow her to take a 360-degree approach to analyzing complex business challenges and needs.

Christine holds a Bachelor of Science in the Management of Human Resources and a Master’s in Human Resource Management. She holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR®) certification from HRCI and the Society for Human Resources Management Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) certification. Much of Christine’s early career was supporting Department of Defense (DoD) small and large business contractors. Her vast experience includes managing all support function aspects of businesses to include: human resources, finance and accounting, DoD security program management, information technology, and business development. Further, Christine is a skilled leader and mentor. Many of her former employees still reach out to her today for advice and support.

Christine is passionate about educating professionals about the diverse aspects of human resources and is a regular speaker at conventions and conferences across the country. She covers a broad range of HR topics, from recruitment strategies and managing a multi-generational workforce to addressing mental health issues in the workplace. Beyond speaking engagements, Christine actively supports job-seekers' growth by volunteering at college career fairs and providing free mock interviews, helping individuals to confidently pursue their dream roles.