A student in St. Clair College's Human Resources program has received a $2,500 scholarship at the 4th annual DisruptHR conference at Caesars Windsor.
Brook Hillier is in her third year of the Business Administration – Human Resources program and is passionate about a career in HR.
"Receiving the DisruptHR Scholarship means a lot to me. I'm very grateful to be recognized," said Hillier. "As a student who works hard to support myself through school, this scholarship is also a huge help financially and gives me extra motivation as I continue working toward my career in HR."
Hillier was recognized with a special presentation at the DisruptHR conference, powered by the Job Shoppe, receiving the award from The Job Shoppe founder and CEO, Meighen Nehme.
"Brooke stood out because she demonstrated more than an interest in HR, she showed a genuine desire to improve it. She understands that innovation and technology can make HR processes more effective, but she also keeps people at the centre of those decisions," Nehme said.
Nehme has good reason to support future leaders in the HR world, as she is a graduate of St. Clair College's Business – Marketing program and was honoured as an Alumni of Distinction in 2013.
"Brook's experience in recruitment and employee support has already given her a practical understanding of the profession," Nehme added. "What impressed us most was her willingness to question how things have always been done and look for better ways to build workplace systems that serve the people using them. That mindset truly reflects the spirit of DisruptHR."
Hillier said she's had the opportunity to gain hands-on HR experience through different work environments and tries to take what she's learned at St. Clair and apply it in real-world settings.
"My time at St. Clair has been a really important part of my growth," Hillier said. "I've learned a lot through my classes, but I've also had opportunities to gain practical experience and meet people who have helped me grow professionally."
"St. Clair has given me a strong foundation in HR and has helped me become more confident in the career path I've chosen," she added.
Prof. Melissa Simas said industry partnerships fostered through DisruptHR and The Job Shoppe, along with all the sponsors for the event, play a vital role in enriching the student experience and connecting human resources professionals within our community.
"Scholarships such as the one sponsored by this event not only provide financial support but also serve as a powerful recognition of student achievement and potential," Simas said. "Opportunities such as this event help our students build confidence, strengthen their connection to the HR profession, and demonstrate the value of collaboration between education and industry in supporting future professionals in our field."
Now in its fourth year, DisruptHR Windsor, powered by The Job Shoppe, brings together more than 250 HR and talent professionals, business leaders, technologists and community partners for an evening of bold ideas about the future of people and work.
Nehme said the conference is about challenging conventional thinking and shaping the future of work and students are an important part of that future.
"Through our scholarship, supported by 100 percent of the event's profits, we invest in emerging HR professionals who demonstrate curiosity, courage and a willingness to think differently," Nehme said. "By connecting these students with established professionals and welcoming them into our community, we help develop the next generation of people leaders in Windsor-Essex while ensuring DisruptHR's impact extends far beyond one evening.
Hillier said she's excited to graduate and wants to work toward an HR business partner or change management role.
"I'm especially interested in helping organizations manage change while also supporting their employees and workplace culture," said Hillier. "I'm excited to continue learning, gaining experience and seeing where my HR career takes me."
"I'm also very grateful to the people at St. Clair who have supported and encouraged me throughout my program."
