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Learning Lab:  HR Advocacy in Action

Hosted by Heather Parsons and Paige Boughan

February 25, 2026

12pm to 1pm

Meeting Link provided in the registration email.  When registering - Please register and purchase a guest ticket. It's FREE!

Meeting Details: HR Professionals play a critical role in shaping workplaces, but our influence doesn’t stop at company policies – we also have the power to impact legislation and regulations affecting the entire workforce. Our collective HR voices go a long way in shaping policy that supports employees, businesses, and communities. Understanding the issues and engaging with policymakers helps elevate the profession and drive meaningful change. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand SHRM's approach to HR advocacy at the federal and state levels

2. Review key federal policy priorities impacting employers and employees

3. Gain awareness of Maryland-specific legislation under consideration in this session

4. Learn how HR professionals can engage, track, and influence policy in meaningful ways

Speakers Bio  

Paige Boughan, MS, SHRM-SCP 

Paige Boughan is the Senior Vice President, Director of Human Resources at Farmers & Merchants Bank, bringing over 15 years of progressive HR experience to the role. She’s worked across a wide range of industries—from family-owned businesses to multi-state organizations—supporting blue-collar workers, skilled tradespeople, white-collar professionals, and financial teams, giving her a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities within diverse workplace cultures. Her background includes hands-on work in everything from recruiting & retention, compensation & benefits management, training & development, compliance & HR policies, performance management & succession planning, and employee relations & company culture. Paige’s favorite thing about working at the bank is that every employee has the ability to make an impact, big & small – and she gets to cultivate and celebrate that!

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interpersonal Communications and a Master’s degree in Human Resource Development, and proudly earned her SHRM-SCP certification. She has been a volunteer leader for her local SHRM affiliate chapter and for the state council, currently serving as local chapter President and Legislative Director for the state council. Paige is known for her willingness to take on new challenges and stepping outside of her comfort zone. It’s a mindset that’s helped her grow, lead, and inspire others throughout her HR journey.

Heather Parsons, MBA, SHRM?CP, PHR, CWCS Manager, People and Operations

Heather Parsons is an accomplished human resources professional with more than 20 years of experience across the financial services, education, and nonprofit sectors. She joined The Insurance Market in November 2021 as Manager of People and Operations, where she provides strategic HR leadership and operational support. In March 2024, Heather co?founded IMHR, where she serves as an HR Consultant delivering tailored, practical HR solutions to organizations.

Heather holds an MBA from Capella University and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Management from Wilmington University, along with certificates in Human Resource Management and Training and Staff Development. Her professional credentials include SHRM?CP, PHR, and Certified WorkComp Specialist (CWCS). She has also earned specialized certifications in HR ethics, inclusive employment practices, workforce reintegration, and veteran employment, reflecting her commitment to ethical and inclusive workplaces.

Heather is actively engaged in the HR community and currently serves as Membership Director for the Maryland SHRM State Council and President of Eastern Shore SHRM.

$0 Member Ticket

$0 Guest Ticket