Emerging Professionals

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Welcome to Our Young & Early Career HR Professionals Group

At SHRM-Memphis Emerging Leaders, we’re here to help young and early-career HR professionals thrive in their careers.

Why We Exist

Our Mission

To help young and early career HR professionals succeed and grow in their careers.

Our Vision

We strive to keep young HR professionals engaged in the field by catering to their needs, desires, and aspirations through development opportunities and networking activities.

Who We’re For

  • HR professionals aged 35 and younger.
  • Individuals of any age with 5 years or less of HR experience.

Whether you’re starting your HR journey or building your foundation, we’re here to support you.

Upcoming Events

Emerging Leaders Membership Session

January 2026

Learn what we have to offer for your career growth. Registration opens soon.

Volunteer Event

Cancelled / Will reschedule soon!

It’s our time to give back by volunteering in our community. More details to come!

Virtual HR Roundtable

October 23, 2025 - Registration coming soon!

Engaging space for professionals to discuss relevant HR and career topics.

Mock Interview Workshop

November 13, 2025 - Registration coming soon!

Improve your interviewing skills in this in-person workshop.

Holiday Mixer

December 2025

Network and enjoy holiday fun. Includes a Toy Drive for kids in our community.

2026 Spring Cohort

Our annual development program application opens soon. Sign up early!

We are excited about the events and initiatives we have planned throughout the year. Stay connected with us for updates, networking opportunities, and professional development sessions!

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Meet the Leadership Team

Daniel Prince Tate

Emerging Leaders Chair

Daniel Prince Tate, SHRM-CP

HR Business Partner II, BlueOval SK
@ BlueOval City Ford

Membership Engagement Co-Leads

Donae Gooden

HR Manager, The J.M. Smucker Co

Rozzanne Galdonaz

HR Specialist, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare

Professional Development Co-Leads

Amber Anderson, MPA

IT Talent Architect Advisor, ALSAC - St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Amanda Wiggins, MBA, PHR

HR Generalist, Choices: Center for Reproductive Health

Special Events & Impact Co-Leads

Chelsea Thornton

HR Assistant/Payroll Specialist, The TJX Companies Inc.

Co-Lead Role Vacant

Apply if interested in leading

Marketing & Communications Co-Leads

Leon Robinson Jr., SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Lead People Solutions Consultant, Nike

Co-Lead Role Vacant

Apply if interested in leading

Join the Team!

The SHRM-Memphis Emerging Leaders committee is dedicated to growing, supporting, and engaging the next generation of HR professionals. Our team is made up of passionate leaders working to create meaningful connections, impactful events, and professional development opportunities—all while having fun!

We’re looking for driven HR professionals to join our leadership team in the following volunteer Co-Lead roles:

  • Marketing & Communications Co-Lead – Manage branding and outreach
  • Special Events & Impact Co-Lead – Plan unique events and community initiatives

Eligibility: Marketing/Communications/HR professional aged 35 and younger, or individuals of any age with 5 years or less of HR experience.