The Davis School of Business at Colorado Mesa University, through the generous support of the Western Colorado Human Resource Association and the law firm of Bechtel & Santo, is taking an ambitious step to empower our Human Resource Management students.

We are seeking to provide students enrolled in the HR Capstone course with the opportunity to prepare to sit for the industry-recognized SHRM Certified Professional designation, a certification that can open doors to thriving careers in human resources.

However, this crucial step comes with financial barriers, and we are reaching out to the Western Slope community for support.

Why SHRM Certification Matters

In today’s competitive workforce, industry-recognized certifications like the SHRM-CP serve as a distinguishing credential, signaling a candidate’s knowledge and readiness to handle real-world HR challenges. For CMU’s HRMA 478 Advanced Human Resource Management students, the opportunity to take the SHRM-CP exam is not just a career booster, it’s a transformational step toward professional growth.

The path to certification, however, isn’t cheap. While students are expected to cover the cost of SHRM membership ($49) and testing fees ($149), the expense of the SHRM Learning Management System poses a significant hurdle. At $799 per student, the LMS is an essential resource for exam preparation, providing students with the tools and materials needed to excel.

A Solution Through Community Support

To bridge this financial gap, we have created a dedicated fund through the CMU Foundation. The fund aims to raise sufficient funds to provide SHRM LMS access for students and eventually create an endowment to ensure sustainable support for future cohorts.

“Building a legacy of exceptionally qualified HR professionals benefits every organization on the Western Slope. By earning this additional certification, CMU HR graduates will be equipped to drive our businesses forward and shape the future of leadership in our region,” said Michael Santo of Bechtel & Santo.

Western Slope employers, HR leaders and community members are invited to invest in the next generation of HR professionals by contributing to this fund.

A $1,000 annual donation or a one-time contribution by Dec. 31 this year (Oct. 1 in future years) can make a significant impact. Of course, a gift of any size is appreciated.

A Tax-Deductible Opportunity

All donations to this initiative are tax-deductible and will be managed by the CMU Foundation, guaranteeing every dollar is used exclusively for SHRM LMS access. By supporting this fund, donors will directly enable students to access the resources they need to succeed in their SHRM-CP exam preparation and enter the workforce equipped to lead in human resources.

Building a Stronger HR Community

This initiative is more than just a fundraiser; it’s an investment in the future of human resources on the Western Slope. By supporting CMU students, employers are cultivating a pipeline of well-prepared HR professionals who are ready to contribute to the success of local organizations.

“Obtaining a SHRM certification alongside a degree in HR demonstrates to employers that the individual has not only acquired a strong academic foundation, but also meets the industry standards for HR professionals. This dual recognition showcases both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, enhancing credibility and employability,”said Alma Sekulich, WCHRA president-elect.

How to Contribute

Those interested in contributing can reach out to me at csandersvia@coloradomesa.edu to donate by credit card. Donors should specify “SHRM-CP Exam” in the comment section to ensure their contribution is directed appropriately.

Join Us in Making a Difference

The Davis School of Business and its HRMA 478 Capstone students are counting on the generosity of the Western Slope community to make the dream of SHRM certification a reality. By coming together to support this initiative, we can pave the way for the success of future HR leaders and strengthen the foundation of our regional workforce.

The deadline for this year’s contributions is approaching quickly: Dec. 31. Don’t miss the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of CMU students and the HR profession.

Together, we can create opportunities that will resonate for years to come.

Dr. Sanders Via is an Assistant Professor of Human Resources at Colorado Mesa University where she serves as the HR Program Coordinator, MBA Director, and faculty member. She also serves on the Western Colorado Human Resource Association as the College Relations Director. Her research interests include HR education, transfer of training, and conflict management.