The award program recognizes student chapters based on operations, programming, professional development, and engagement. Since its inception in 1996/97, the university’s student chapter has earned the Superior Merit Award annually for 25 years.

“UOG SHRM student chapter has always been about the development of its members and the continued growth of the chapter. Winning this award validates that our SHRM student chapter has done an outstanding job of increasing opportunities for growth and development for our members in the field of human resource management,” said Joann Diego, the chapter’s founding member and faculty adviser.

This performance-based award is the second highest award given for an academic year by the national SHRM organization. It takes into consideration the chapter’s activities throughout the year in legislative advocacy, hosting seminars and conferences, interacting with the local SHRM professional chapter, attending SHRM conferences, volunteering, competing in a regional human resources competition, participating in internships, and fundraising. 

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the UOG SHRM Chapter officers remained determined to provide a meaningful experience for their members.

“Our positive outlook and determination to remotely deliver quality programs and services during the pandemic won us this award. We consistently kept our members involved and informed of HR career opportunities, as well as networking and community service events,” said Gabrielle Quenga, the president of the student chapter for the 2020 school year.  

Fañomnåkan 2021 SHRM President Kiana Gwekoh said that the award stands as a testament to UOG SHRM’s commitment to enhance the chapter, community, and HR profession.