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Spotlight on the SHRM St. Louis Mentoring Committee

Did you know SHRM St. Louis hosts formal opportunities for mentoring? We recently sat down with the Co-Chairs of the Mentoring Committee, Rik Nemanick and Angela Louis, for a quick Q&A:

Q: How long have you chaired the Mentoring Committee?
A: Rik Nemanick started with the Mentoring Committee in 2010. Angela Louis was a protégé in the 2012 program and joined the program to co-lead it in 2013.
 
Q: How would you describe the committee’s purpose to a member seeking to become more involved in SHRM St. Louis?
A: We are always on the lookout for experienced professionals who want to give back to the Human Resources community by serving as a mentor. It is one of the greatest gifts that one can give.

Q: How large is the current committee? Are you currently seeking to add to it?
A: We are a committee of two. Given the size of our program, we manage it fairly well with two people.

Q: What activities/decisions might an individual committee member participate in?
A: Serving as a mentor
 
Q: How often does the committee meet? 
A: Four times per year
 
Q: Are there any 2023 committee accomplishments that you’d like to speak about?
A: We have 14 mentoring pairs (one is actually a triad) running right now.

Q: What challenges does the committee face (if any)?
A: Sourcing mentors. HR professionals who have reached the stage in their careers when mentoring makes sense are also the busiest.

Q: Any other thoughts about the Mentoring Committee?
A: We are glad that the SHRM St. Louis Mentoring Program can contribute to creating a stronger HR community in the Saint Louis area.

If you are someone who is looking for guidance in your career or insight into the HR industry, becoming a protege may be a great way to gain valuable information and expand your HR network toward career goals. Being a mentor is also a rewarding experience - gain a fresh perspective, feel good about helping others, and earn recertification credits all at the same time. We accept applications for the program twice a year (in the Fall and Spring), so keep an eye on your inbox!

Click here for more information about the Mentoring Program.