Empowering an Organization’s Greatest Asset (People): The Art and Science of Human Resources
As the workplace evolves, the demand for thoughtful, dynamic HR leaders has never been greater. Four Le Moyne graduates joined us for the Fall Madden Lecture to share how they are empowering people, shaping organizational culture, and redefining what it means to lead in today鈥檚 world.聽 Special thanks to Dr. Marilla Hayman, Assistant Professor of Management and Leadership, for moderating the panel.
We were excited to welcome back to The Heights:
- Susan Vidal 鈥95
Senior Director, Human Resources Business Partner and Head of Human Resources for Artificial Intelligence (AI, Pioneering Intelligence) and Technology
Flagship Pioneering - Erica Chapman 鈥99
Vice President of Human Resources, Central Division
Pepsi Brands North America - Kirstie Reynoso-Miranda 鈥10
Human Resources Director
Columbia University - Kristie Spadine 鈥14, MBA 鈥15
Senior Director, People and Culture
The Coca-Cola Company
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
A capacity crowd gathered in the Panasci Family Chapel to hear these exceptional alumni leaders from some of the world鈥檚 most iconic companies. From Wall Street to higher ed, from Pepsi to Columbia, their journeys reminded us why human resources is truly the heart of every organization.
鈥淭o be able to be an advocate for employees鈥攚hether they realize it or not鈥攈as been very important in my career trajectory.鈥 Kirstie Reynoso-Miranda 鈥10 on how her personal story fuels her professional purpose.
鈥淎lthough the people business is somewhat consistent, it鈥檚 rapidly changing鈥攁nd we get to support many different walks of life.鈥 Kristie Spadine 鈥14, MBA 鈥15 discusses the ever-changing, people-first world of HR.
鈥淚 loved analytics and problem solving, but I really loved people鈥 Human resources really does combine the two.鈥 Sherri Lyons 鈥91 on following passion and finding purpose in HR.
鈥淭he stuff I do today is so different than the stuff I started doing 25 years ago鈥攁nd that鈥檚 what makes it exciting.鈥 Erica Chapman 鈥99 reflecting on the dynamic evolution of HR.
As Mike Madden 鈥71 so powerfully said after receiving his honorary degree to begin the evening: “Today…I’ve come home to the place I love.”