Monthly Newsletter

As we move through February, the new-year buzz has settled into steady progress. This is the time of year when intentions turn into action, when strategic plans are being implemented, hiring goals are taking shape, and HR teams are navigating the day-to-day realities that come with a new year in motion.

At CRHRA, we’re continuing to create space for connection, learning, and shared insight. In this month’s edition, you’ll find updates on upcoming programs, opportunities to get involved, and resources to support you through this busy season. Thank you for being part of our community—we’re glad you’re here!

As always, we want to hear from you! If there's a topic, resource, or idea you'd love to see covered in 2026, drop us a note in our Suggestion Box. 

What we’re covering this issue:

Upcoming Events 

Tuesday, March 3rd, 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM: From Preparation to Separation: A 10 Step Model for Effective Terminations at The Desmond Hotel (660 Albany Shaker Road, Albany)

Join us for an upcoming presentation designed to help HR professionals and leaders navigate employee terminations with confidence and care. In this session, John Bagyi will walk through 10 essential steps to reduce potential legal exposure while strengthening compliance and minimizing organizational risk. Attendees will gain practical, legally sound strategies that also support broader business objectives, along with communication techniques that preserve dignity and promote a respectful employee experience throughout the separation process. The program will cover how to approach termination decisions thoughtfully, manage emotional dynamics, partner effectively with managers, and apply each of the 10 steps to ensure decisions are defensible, consistent, compliant, and aligned with organizational goals.

Late Registration Still Available - Sign Up Here

Wednesday, March 18th: 4:30 PM - 6:30 PM: Better Together: A Joint Networking Happy Hour at BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse (3 Wolf Road, Albany) 

We are thrilled to announce a joint Happy Hour hosted by CRHRA and the Albany Chapter of PSHRA. We’re breaking down the silos and inviting our local members to mix, mingle, and make new connections at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse!

Come for the networking, stay for the appetizers (they’re on us!), and leave with a broader professional circle. 

Registration Suggested! - Sign Up Here

Save the Date! - Thursday, May 21st - CRHRA & Capital Region ATD May HR Conference at the Crowne Plaza Desmond Hotel in Latham, NY

This year’s theme, Director’s Cut – Crafting a Blockbuster Workforce, is all about elevating the people side of business. We’re looking for speakers who can bring fresh thinking, real-world experience, and inspiring ideas to help today’s leaders build workplaces where people and organizations thrive.

Interested in sponsorship? Visit the 2026 Annual Conference website for more information!

Event Recap

Wednesday, February 11th: Brand YOU: Branding through Moments of Truth

CRHRA was proud to partner with the Capital Region Association for Talent Development (CRATD) for a lunchtime webinar on personal branding and professional presence, presented by Dave Layman of Integra HR. 

This interactive session encouraged HR professionals to intentionally build and “market” their personal brand in ways that align with their goals, values, and authentic selves. Attendees gained practical strategies to strengthen credibility, build trust, clearly communicate their value, and enhance their professional visibility—both within their current roles and as they plan for future growth.

It's our birthday! - CRHRA turns 80!

Did you know that CRHRA was founded in 1946 by a small group of professionals under the name Capital District Personnel Association? Over the past 80 years, we have grown into a thriving community of more than 600 members. Thank you for being part of CRHRA. We are so glad you have joined us, and we look forward to continuing to deliver diverse programming, meaningful education, and inspiration for HR professionals across the Capital Region and beyond for many years to come.

Article of the month

CRHRA’s President shares a behind-the-scenes look at her role as President of Capital Region Human Resource Association (CRHRA), highlighting the mix of strategic leadership, routine administrative work, and stewardship required to guide the nearly 80-year-old organization in a changing world. She also encourages HR professionals to embrace the momentum of spring with practical “professional spring cleaning” tips to prepare for hiring, internships, compliance, and team engagement in the months ahead.

Check out Rebecca’s Reflections - February 2026

CRHRA Storefront

Don’t forget about our CRHRA storefront! Get some CRHRA swag today.

HR education calendar 

Check out the community HR education calendar on the CRHRA website! Here you'll find events not hosted by CRHRA but that might be of interest to our community of HR professionals. 

VolunteerS always welcome

Interested in helping on a project or committee? Wonder what being a Volunteer Leader is all about? Reach out to us today.  Email us at [email protected]

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