On October 28, the Career Development Center and Office of Partnerships at Saint Anselm College hosted a panel with professionals from the Elliot Health System exploring the role of human resources in healthcare. “People First: How HR Shapes the Future of Healthcare” was an open discussion focused on workplace challenges and culture; it was the first of many experiential opportunities for students featuring new Anselmian Career Edge (ACE) Certificate partner Elliot Health System.
The College recently launched a new certificate in HR Management designed to give students career-focused HR knowledge and skills. As an ACE Certificate, HR Management requires just three courses and could easily be added to a student’s resume on top of other majors ranging from Sociology, Social Work, and Psychology to Business and Communication. The ACE partnership with Elliot Health System ensures student opportunities for networking, guest lectures, and other career-focused engagement.
Wednesday’s discussion was moderated by Philosophy Professor Max Latona Ph.D., executive director of the Office of Partnerships. Elliot Health System panelists included Jason Elliott, senior vice president and chief human resources officer, and Jessica Connare, executive director of human resources; Molly McKean, the College's vice president of human resources, deepened the conversation with her additional perspective.
With approximately 5,200 employees throughout southern New Hampshire, Elliot Health System panelists discussed staffing shortages, as workers “experience unprecedented pressure, primarily driven by burnout and a high-stress environment.” This, along with changing workplace expectations, has become a challenge in retaining employees.
To address these difficulties, the Elliot offers professional development opportunities, apprenticeships, and educational assistance to help students and employees pursue degrees and jobs.
McKean highlighted how workplace culture influences personal fulfillment. She spoke on the importance of finding a job that aligns with one’s own values and focuses on the care of workers. “A bad day at Saint Anselm College is still a good day, because it's a mission-driven place.” McKean said. “I would encourage all of you, whether in HR, finance, or marketing, to find a place where you believe in the work that is being done.”
Elliott emphasized that human resource responsibilities extend beyond those working directly in the department, noting that “anybody who ends up leading people is a human resource professional, whether your title says it or not.”
Panelists highlighted how human resources contribute to success by supporting employees and helping organizations fulfill their mission.
The Office of Partnerships at Saint Anselm is committed to fostering partnerships with external organizations that create meaningful and transformative opportunities for our partners, our communities, and the College. Learn more about the Office of Partnerships
Anselmian Career Edge Certificates
Anselmian Career Edge (ACE) Certificates offer Saint Anselm students practical career knowledge, skills, and preparation through relevant courses and engaging employer partnerships with local, regional, national, and international companies and organizations. The college offers several certificate options across growing industries.