Articles

Member Spotlight on Virginia Tardy

Q: Were you born and raised in the St. Louis area?
A: I was born in California. However, I was raised in the St. Louis area as the airline industry brought us here to STL many years ago. When people ask where I am from, I always say St. Louis. I grew up in the Bridgeton/Maryland Heights area. Just recently moved to O’Fallon, IL. 
 
Q: What is your history with SHRM St. Louis?
A: I started with SHRM St. Louis back in 2014 as a student member from Maryville University. Student memberships are such a great opportunity to get connected into the HR field. I have then continued through the last 9 years in the group. I have been more involved over the last couple years in various committees such as DEI and Young Professionals and networking/conference events. I am sure glad we are back to in person meetings. 
 
Q: Why did you decide to focus on employment/human resources?
A: I originally started my career as a dental assistant for 7.5 years and wanted something more for my career. A family friend shared that she loved the Organization Development Program at Maryville University. A few months later I was ready to move my career in a new direction, applied for the program at Maryville University and was accepted. I quickly found my passion for helping people. I took on several internships that further showed this was the right direction for me. I love being able to help develop and lead people to reach their full potential. 

Q: Please describe your job.
A: I have been with Benson Hill in Creve Coeur, MO for the last 4 years. I have shifted my role over the last 4 years in different areas of HR. Currently I am the Benefits Manager. My focus is to design and administer unique benefits for Benson Hill. I support all benefits from retirement to health and welfare and voluntary plans. I also support our manufacturing plants in Iowa and Indiana in an HRBP capacity. 
 
Q: What is your favorite part of the job?
A: I really enjoy the relationship building with my team members. It is so important to get to know your team members and always remember we are people outside of our jobs. I also love a successful redesign of benefits for open enrollment. It’s such a rewarding experience to roll out new benefits at open enrollment, and then team members are excited about the new additions and changes.  

Q: What is one example of a positive experience that you’ve had in this field?
A: As I wear and have worn many hats over the years in HR, I have many touch points throughout the organization. Managing our leave of absences is a part of my current role. I am working with team members when they are going through major life-changing events. It is so important to me to help team members secure their role and help get them settled while big life events are happening. I love being able to help my team members push through tough times when they arise. 
 
Q: Who introduced you to SHRM St. Louis? How did you initially become involved?
A: I was introduced to SHRM St. Louis through a professor at Maryville University. The student membership is the best thing HR students can take advantage of. Such a great way to network and learn more about different areas of HR. 

Q: What have you gained thus far through your SHRM St. Louis membership?
A: SHRM St. Louis provides so many great things as an HR professional. I have gained a great HR network, many new HR friends, and lots of opportunity to learn in all different areas of HR.  
 
Q: What are your hopes for SHRM St. Louis for 2023?
A: I am excited and ready to get back to events in person. It was great that SHRM St. Louis was able to pivot to virtual throughout COVID. However, I am happy we can be back in person. I am excited for more networking and learning new topics. 
 
Q: What non-professional activities do you enjoy in your spare time?
A: During my free time, I enjoy cooking, cycling, and watching Blues games, whether in-person or on television. Additionally, I hold the position of President on the Board of Directors for Home Sweet Home. Contributing to the community is a crucial aspect of my life. Home Sweet Home is a nonprofit furniture bank whose mission is to give under-served families a sense of pride and to improve the quality of their lives by providing basic household furnishings.

Q: What is a favorite quote of yours and why?
A: "She believed she could, so she did" resonates with me because it encourages people to believe in themselves and their abilities. This pushed me through undergrad, graduate school, and my career. This always reminded me of my own capabilities and the determination to succeed. You can always overcome any obstacle and achieve your goals. It emphasizes the importance of having a positive mindset and a can-do attitude. Overall, the quote serves as a reminder that with hard work, persistence, and self-belief, anything is possible.

Q: Who would you consider to be your mentor and why?
A: I would consider my current leader and my papa to be my mentors. My current leader has been a big part of my career growth over the least 4 years. She joined the organization after me and took that chance to help me grow in all aspects of HR. Anytime I am interested in learning something new she is always my cheerleader and helping me get to that next step. She allows me to take on new projects and is always by my side when I have any questions or need advice. My papa has been my lifelong mentor and an inspiration. I am where I am because of him. He has always pushed me to further my education and career.