History of BSHRM

Our local chapter actually pre-dates the formation of the Society for Human Resource Management. BSHRM's origins date back to 1943, when a small group of personnel professionals formed the Birmingham Society for Personnel Administration (BSPA) as a 501 (c)(6) non-profit professional association. Motivated by the desire for camaraderie and the need for sharing ideas and information during a turbulent time in the history of Birmingham and our nation, the current membership continues to embrace its original mission.

Five years later in 1948, the American Society for Personnel Administration (ASPA) was formed in Ohio by 27 volunteer members. This organization would eventually develop into a national association through the affiliation of local chapters with shared missions.

On November 10, 1965, BSPA affiliated with ASPA and was assigned Chapter # 0072.

ASPA changed its name to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in 1989 to reflect the modern role of human resource management, and its broadened scope and influence in business and politics, both domestically and internationally. Today, over 500 affiliated chapters exist in the USA and throughout the world.

To reflect its national affiliation, BSPA in 1989 changed its name to the Birmingham Society for Human Resource Management (BSHRM).

In 2007, both SHRM and BSHRM concurrently embarked upon comprehensive branding efforts to upgrade and expand the mission and scope of services offered to members and to address the emerging needs of an increasingly diverse membership by improving inter-organizational relations and achieving a stronger presence in the community at large.

Volunteer Leadership- The Key to Success

BSHRM has a strong history of volunteer leadership that has fueled chapter growth, professional development, and community service.

Chapter Presidents - Past and Present

Chapter Administrators
In 1995, BSHRM became the first Alabama SHRM Chapter with paid staff when it hired Janet Ellis as its first chapter administrator. In 2004, Jayna Welch became the chapter's second administrator. In 2010, BSHRM hired association management company, Projects Unlimited, Inc., to serve as chapter administrator.

AWARDS

Superior Merit Award Program

The Superior Merit Award is bestowed annually by SHRM to recognize those chapters who have achieved excellence in chapter operations. Criteria for the award include four major categories: (1) legislative and community support; (2) chapter operations, (3) professional development, and (4) activities advancing the profession.

BSHRM has consistently received the Superior Merit Award every year since 1992 (except for 2008) in recognition of outstanding volunteer leadership and chapter performance. If you are interested in volunteering, please check out the committees and let us know!