Dear Great River SHRM Members and Supporters,
As we step into 2026, I find myself both proud of how far we’ve come—and energized by where we’re headed.
The past year marked a major milestone for our chapter. In November 2025, Great River SHRM was honored with the National SHRM Impact Award, recognizing our chapter for creating meaningful, innovative programs that strengthen the HR profession and the organizations we serve. Out of thousands of SHRM chapters nationwide, this recognition affirmed what our members already know: Great River SHRM is doing work that matters, and the impact reaches far beyond our local borders.
At the heart of that impact is connection.
One of the initiatives that truly came to life in 2025—and continues to grow in 2026—is HOT SPOTS, our mentorship-based small group experience. These groups have created intentional space for honest conversations, shared problem-solving, and professional growth in a way that feels real, supportive, and practical. HOT SPOTS has reinforced something we deeply believe: HR leaders need a place to talk about HR with people who get it.
Education and development also remain core to who we are as a chapter. Our Ignite Series—including Ignite Talent, Ignite HR, and Ignite Legal—continues to deliver timely, relevant content designed to equip HR professionals at every stage of their careers. Some of these events have become cornerstone experiences for our members, blending learning, connection, and inspiration while keeping a strong focus on real-world application – and some are new for 2026. We can’t wait to see all three events continue to grow!
While we’re proud of the programs and recognition behind us, 2026 is also a year of forward momentum.
This year, you’ll begin to see an exciting evolution of our chapter, including a refreshed name and logo that better reflect who we are today and the future we’re building together. While our look may be updated, our mission remains the same: to support, connect, and elevate HR professionals across our region.
None of this would be possible without the dedication of our volunteer board, speakers, sponsors, and—most importantly—our members. Your engagement, ideas, and willingness to show up for one another are what make Great River SHRM more than an association. You make it a community.
As we move through 2026, my hope is that you continue to feel proud to be part of this chapter, confident in the value it brings, and excited about what’s ahead. Whether you’re attending events, participating in a HOT SPOTS group, mentoring others, or simply making new connections, you are helping shape the future of HR in our region.
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving as your president. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together next.
Here’s to an impactful and exciting 2026,
Bobbi Jo Cox
President, Great River SHRM
In the world where HR is often viewed as spreadsheets and policy manuals, Bobbi Jo Cox steps in with a sense of humor and reminder that Human Resources is so much more. With 20+ years of experience in HR, Bobbi Jo’s career began at Cordova Dragway, a motorsports facility where she quickly learned how to navigate the fast-paced world of people management. From there, she expanded her expertise in manufacturing, immigration, and now as Director of HR at McCarthy-Bush Corporation, supporting teams in the mining, construction, and manufacturing sectors.
A proud board member of the Great River SHRM for three years, Bobbi Jo is serving as President in 2025, where she’s passionate about bringing HR professionals together to share knowledge and tackle challenges. Known for her approachable style, she believes every tense moment can be lightened with the right perspective and the occasional well-placed candy bowl.
When she’s not navigating the intricacies of HR jargon or brainstorming morale-boosting ideas, Bobbi Jo keeps busy with her three kids’ many school and sports events. She’s also an avid reader and a regular at drag racing events, never forgetting where her HR journey began.
Bobbi Jo’s goal? To make HR a little less intimidating and a lot more human—one laugh, and one connection, at a time.