Margaret Lynch,

SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP and HRCI’s PHR, SPHR

1.         What SHRM Certification do you have?

SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP and HRCI’s PHR, SPHR

2.         Did you join a Study Group when you studied for your certification?

In the fall of 2019, the Fort Defiance Indian Hospital Board, Inc. (FDIHB) HR team participated in a virtual SHRM certification class led by Mary Gordy through San Juan College. The team received access to the SHRM Learning system and the study manuals, and the class met twice a week for three hours.  Study was primarily accomplished independently, but the team would regroup just before class to discuss the previous module and any areas of difficulty or concern. The plan was for the team to take the appropriate SRHM exam in summer 2020. Unfortunately, COVID happened and those plans were put on the back burner. 

3.         What made you decide to get certified?

SHRM certification denotes expertise and leadership in the field of HR and I wanted to model this for the FDIHB HR team and demonstrate that obtaining SHRM certification is achievable.

4.         How has certification elevated your career?

Early on in my HR career, I was encouraged to study and sit for the HRCI PHR certification.  At the time, I didn’t know how instrumental it would be in obtaining a position with FDIHB, which ultimately lead to the Mentorship Advancement Program and subsequent promotions to Chief Human Resources Officer and Executive VP of Corporate Operations.

5.         Add anything personal that may show your strength and resilience through the pandemic:

As COVID-19 hit the Navajo Nation, and hit it hard, being able to adjust to the uncertainty and ever-changing face of the virus became of paramount importance in our efforts to combat it. Fear, anxiety, doubt and death relentlessly assaulted our community and employees. As leaders, especially HR leaders, our responsibility is to be that beacon of strength, assurance, hope and compassion, even when we are facing the same assaults.  What I have learned through this experience is to value every relationship, every day, and to take nothing for granted, especially those who turn to us for leadership and guidance.