Iowa SHRM
Conference Speakers
Join us for an enriching experience at the Iowa SHRM State Conference, where HR professionals converge to ignite innovation, foster collaboration, and elevate their skills to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Human Resources.
Speaker/Presenter Application Open Now!
Keynote Conference Speakers
List of Services
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Interactive SHRM Certification Cram Session | October 7 | 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Get ready for an engaging, high-energy learning experience with Dr. Celina Peerman designed to sharpen your HR knowledge and build confidence. Whether you're actively studying for SHRM certification, exploring certification as your next career step, or simply looking to refresh your expertise, this interactive session combines certification review, real-world scenarios, audience participation, networking, and practical learning to help you put knowledge into action.
This session can be purchased on it's own for $53.60. Click the Get Registered link above!
Learn more about Dr. Celina Peerman.
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Pre-Conference Speaker | October 7 | 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Jason A. Hunt is a leadership speaker, author, and trainer who helps leaders create bigger impact and more influence by choosing better under pressure. His work equips leaders to move beyond authority and activity into influence that actually sticks.
Jason’s leadership journey began at 19, leading a group of 100 people in outer Siberia, and later included serving as a school principal...where he failed miserably. Those experiences shaped his belief that leadership isn’t about title, but about influence.
Jason has worked with more than 40,000 leaders across industries ranging from manufacturing and finance to government and healthcare. A Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) and past president of the National Speakers Association of Minnesota, Jason blends humor, science, and real-world stories to deliver practical tools leaders can immediately apply.
Jason will lead the pre-conference workshop on building influence, earning trust, and creating meaningful impact—no matter your title. Attendees will leave with practical tools to strengthen their leadership and communication skills.
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Opening Keynote Speaker | October 8
What if the key to stronger leadership, healthier workplaces, and lasting resilience isn't working harder—but understanding what's driving us beneath the surface?
Vanessa McNeal brings a unique blend of personal experience, trauma-informed expertise, and practical leadership strategies to help audiences uncover the hidden patterns that shape performance, relationships, and workplace culture.
As an executive coach, educator, and nationally sought-after speaker, Vanessa challenges conventional thinking around burnout, compassion, and resilience, offering a transformative framework for leading from a place of trust, connection, and purpose.
This is a keynote that will not only inspire—it will change the way you think about leadership and the human experience at work.
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Closing Keynote Speaker | October 9
Lisa Bluder, one of the most successful women’s basketball coaches in history, provides an inspiring look at the principles of leadership, teamwork, and perseverance that have defined her career. Drawing from decades of coaching experience, she shares insights on building a winning culture, developing resilient athletes, and fostering excellence both on and off the court. With compelling stories and actionable takeaways, Bluder motivates audiences to embrace challenges, lead with integrity, and strive for greatness in their own pursuits.