The Art of Saying Goodbye: Why Offboarding Is a Workforce Strategy, Not an Afterthought

Intentional design. Better experiences. Stronger workplaces.

HR in 90: Employee Experience

HR in 90: Employee Experience — Designing Work That Works is a focused, practical session exploring how work design, culture, and everyday experiences shape employee engagement and performance. In just 90 minutes, this session examines how policies, systems, and leadership behaviors influence the employee experience—from onboarding and communication to flexibility, belonging, and wellbeing. Expect timely insights, peer discussion, and shared learning—plus lunch—so you can step away, reflect, and return with ideas to improve how work actually works for your people.

Session Overview: 

First impressions matter — but final impressions last forever. In this thought-provoking session, "The Art of Saying Goodbye," we’ll challenge the traditional view of offboarding as a simple administrative process and reveal how it can instead serve as a powerful driver of brand loyalty, culture preservation, and employee advocacy. Learn how a dignified departure process reduces risk, boosts morale, and strengthens your organization’s reputation — internally and externally. Whether you’re navigating individual exits or large-scale reductions, this session will equip you with the strategies to turn goodbyes into opportunities for growth.

Learning Objectives: 

This session explores why a thoughtful, structured, and dignified offboarding process is not just an HR formality, but a strategic advantage that protects your culture, strengthens your employer brand, and sustains business continuity.

• Understand the Ripple Effects of Offboarding: Explore how the treatment of departing employees impacts brand reputation, team morale, future business opportunities, and organizational culture.
• Learn Best Practices for Dignified Departures: Identify actionable strategies to create seamless, respectful, and strategic offboarding experiences that minimize disruption and reinforce company values.
• Leverage Offboarding as a Strategic Advantage: Discover how thoughtful transitions, including outplacement support and alumni engagement, can transform former employees

About the Speaker:

Mackenzie Flanagan Regional Director – Pacific Northwest Region Challenger, Gray & Christmas, Inc. Mackenzie Flanagan is a trusted advisor to HR teams with a background in staffing and career transition services. She is passionate about delivering impactful talent management solutions infused with kindness and service. An expert in strategic planning, coaching, outplacement, and career transitions, she partners with C-suite leaders and individuals to support their goals, ensuring they feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential. Challenger, Gray & Christmas: When layoffs and career changes happen, we don’t just soften the blow—we deliver the bounce back. Our deeply personalized programs land employees in roles they deserve, keep retained teams confident, and enable business results that prove the value of treating people right. Together, we make career changes a turning point to bounce back and move forward—for people, for business, for good.

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: June 10, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

Balancing People and Policy: How Employers Engage Employees Matters as Much as Policy

HR in 90: Employee Relations

Practical guidance for handling employee relations moments that matter.

This HR in 90 session offers a practical look at everyday employee relations challenges HR professionals face. In just 90 minutes, you’ll explore common scenarios, discuss decision-making frameworks, and gain insights into balancing empathy with policy, consistency with flexibility, and risk management with relationship-building.

Designed to be approachable and discussion-driven, this session provides space to learn from peers, reflect on real experiences, and walk away with strategies you can apply immediately.

Session Overview:

Many serious HR and legal problems do not begin as legal issues—they begin as unresolved employee concerns. While policies are important, the way an employer first engages with an employee often determines whether a concern resolves or escalates. Whether an employee is expressing dissatisfaction at work or raising something more personal, sensitive, or disruptive, that initial response is frequently the decisive moment. Employers who respond with attention, clarity, and follow-through are more effective, more resilient, and far less likely to see employee concerns escalate.

Learning Objectives: 

• Identify effective strategies for engaging with employees when concerns, complaints, or workplace issues arise.
• Develop communication approaches that promote clarity, trust, and productive workplace dialogue during difficult or sensitive conversations.
• Understand how people-centered employee relations practices can complement workplace policies and legal obligations to reduce escalation and strengthen organizational outcomes.

About the Speaker:

Bruce Garrett Attorney Northwest Employment Lawyer Bruce Garrett has experience representing clients in state and federal court, and before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Bruce also counsels clients on pre-litigation matters—helping them avoid litigation before disputes arise, and he assists employers with drafting employment policies, employment contracts, and separation agreements. Bruce graduated from Willamette University College of Law, cum laude, with a certificate in law and business. While in law school, Bruce served as the College’s Founder and President of the Labor and Employment Law Association, Board Member of the Moot Court, and Note and Comment Editor for Willamette Law Review. He also previously served as a legal extern for the Honorable Adrienne Nelson of the Oregon Supreme Court, as well as for the Appellate Division of Clark County District Attorney’s Office. Through these positions, Bruce gained a wide range of experience writing and submitting briefs, conducting legal research, and preparing arguments. Bruce received his B.A. in Political Science from Washington State University. Upon completion of his undergraduate studies, Bruce worked for the Social Security Administration for nearly a decade where he served in a variety of roles. Bruce’s experience preparing legal notices, conducting policy research, and adjudicating disability claims and appeals laid a strong foundation for his future legal endeavors. In his free time, Bruce enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, catching a Seattle sporting event, and traveling.

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: July 8th, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Bruce Garrett Attorney Northwest Employment Lawyer PHRMA Volunteer	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

HR Think Tank

Where big ideas meet meaningful HR conversation.

HR Think Tank is a space for curious, thoughtful HR professionals to come together for meaningful, forward-looking conversations. These sessions go beyond day-to-day HR challenges, creating room to explore big ideas, emerging issues, and the broader forces shaping the workplace. Through open dialogue and shared perspective, participants deepen their understanding and expand their thinking alongside peers.

How It Works

• Open to All HR Professionals: Members and non-members are welcome.
• Free for Members: PHRMA members attend at no cost; non-member pricing may apply.
• Conversation-Focused: No presentations or formal instruction—just guided discussion and peer exchange.
• Exploratory Topics: Conversations may include generational wealth, financial literacy, economic realities affecting employees, and other timely workplace issues.
• Community-Driven: Participants bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and questions to enrich the conversation.
  

Event Information: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

Event Details

• Date: July 30th, 2026
• Time: 4:30pm - 6:00pm
• Location: TBA
  
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary
  • Non-Members: $65
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our HR Think Tank Leader! 

Ophelia Yan, MBA, GPHR, SHRM-SCP Instructor Oregon State University PHRMA Board Member	Alan Cabelly, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus Portland State University PHRMA Board Member	Katrina Williams, SPHR Chief People Officer DKS Associates PHRMA Board Member

HR in 90: Leadership Development - Cultivating Growth & Leadership

Practical leadership support—delivered in 90 minutes.

This HR in 90 session offers a focused, practical look at leadership development through the HR lens. In just 90 minutes, explore common leadership challenges, essential leadership behaviors, and simple tools HR can use to coach, guide, and support leaders day to day. Designed for busy HR professionals, this session blends learning, discussion, and immediately usable takeaways—plus lunch.

Session Overview: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

About the Speaker: TBA

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: August 12th, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Linda Addy Training + Development Consultant HR Annie PHRMAVolunteer	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

HR in 90: Workforce Development - Building Skills for Today & Tomorrow

Practical leadership support—delivered in 90 minutes.

This HR in 90 session offers a focused look at workforce development in action—what’s working, what’s changing, and how HR teams can support growth without overcomplicating the process. In just 90 minutes, participants will explore real-world examples, practical tools, and peer insights related to developing talent, building internal mobility, and preparing employees for what’s ahead—all while connecting with others facing similar challenges.

Session Overview: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

About the Speaker: TBA

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: September 16th, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Teresa Bergan HR Manager Streimer PHRMA Board Member	Natalie Miller Regional Director West Apprenti PHRMA Board Member	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

HR Think Tank

Where big ideas meet meaningful HR conversation.

HR Think Tank is a space for curious, thoughtful HR professionals to come together for meaningful, forward-looking conversations. These sessions go beyond day-to-day HR challenges, creating room to explore big ideas, emerging issues, and the broader forces shaping the workplace. Through open dialogue and shared perspective, participants deepen their understanding and expand their thinking alongside peers.

How It Works

• Open to All HR Professionals: Members and non-members are welcome.
• Free for Members: PHRMA members attend at no cost; non-member pricing may apply.
• Conversation-Focused: No presentations or formal instruction—just guided discussion and peer exchange.
• Exploratory Topics: Conversations may include generational wealth, financial literacy, economic realities affecting employees, and other timely workplace issues.
• Community-Driven: Participants bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and questions to enrich the conversation.
  

Event Information: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

Event Details

• Date: September 17th, 2026
• Time: 4:30pm - 6:00pm
• Location: TBA
  
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: Complimentary
  • Non-Members: $65
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our HR Think Tank Leader! 

Ophelia Yan, MBA, GPHR, SHRM-SCP Instructor Oregon State University PHRMA Board Member	Alan Cabelly, Ph.D. Professor Emeritus Portland State University PHRMA Board Member	Katrina Williams, SPHR Chief People Officer DKS Associates PHRMA Board Member

HR in 90: Career Support Network - Career Transitions

Connection and support for navigating what’s next.

This HR in 90 session is a presentation-based program designed to support HR professionals navigating career transitions. Through guided content and practical examples, the session explores common challenges, decision points, and strategies related to job searching, career pivots, and professional reinvention within HR.

Participants will gain perspective, tools, and ideas they can apply immediately—along with time for reflection and light discussion. As with all HR in 90 programs, lunch is included and the experience balances learning with meaningful connection.

Session Overview: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

About the Speaker: TBA

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: October 14, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Lauren Francis Chief Executive Officer Mulberry Talent Partners PHRMA Volunteer	Jenny Wright Director of Executive Search & Business Development Mulberry Talent Partners PHRMA Volunteer	Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member

HR in 90: Workplace Legal Update - Applying Workplace Law with Confidence

Clear legal updates. Practical guidance. Confident HR decisions.

Workplace Legal Updates in HR in 90 is a concise, practical session designed to help HR professionals stay current on evolving employment laws—without the overwhelm. In just 90 minutes, this session highlights recent and upcoming legal changes, explains what they mean in day-to-day practice, and offers clear guidance on how to apply them within your organization. Led by trusted legal and HR experts, the conversation focuses on real-world implications, risk awareness, and practical steps that support compliance and confident decision-making.

Session Overview: TBA

Learning Objectives: TBA

About the Speaker: TBA

Thank You to Our Hosts!

About HR in 90

HR in 90 is PHRMA’s monthly lunchtime program designed to fit learning and connection into a busy workday. Step away from your desk, enjoy lunch, and engage in timely HR topics alongside peers who understand your challenges. Each session blends practical learning with meaningful conversation—giving you insights, perspective, and community in just 90 minutes.

Who It’s For

HR in 90 is ideal for you if you:

• Want meaningful HR learning that fits into your workday
• Prefer approachable, discussion-friendly sessions over full-day programs
• Are looking to connect with other HR professionals without committing an entire afternoon or evening
• Want a consistent, predictable monthly touchpoint with the PHRMA community

All career stages are welcome—HR in 90 is designed to be accessible, relevant, and engaging for emerging through executive-level professionals.

Event Details:

• Date: November 11th, 2026
• Time: 11:30am - 1:00pm
• Location:
  • The Standard - Auditorium
    900 SW 5th Ave, Level B1 (2 levels down from the lobby)
    Portland, OR 97204
  • Parking: Parking garage with Concourse Access Under the Street is at: 930 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
  • Cost: $5/hour
    
  NOTE: Do not put "The Standard" into your maps - you will not arrive at the correct location!
• Cost:
  • PHRMA Members: $54
  • Non-Members: $124
• Agenda:
  • 11:30am - 12:00pm: Arrival, Lunch & Connection
  • 12:00pm - 1:00: Presentation
    
• Recertification Credits:
  • SHRM PDCs: 1
  • HRCI Credits: 1 (pending until approved)
• Refunds: We understand schedules change, but we do ask that you give us 48-hours notice.

Thank You to Our Programs Board Members! 

Natalie Grebe HR Manager Elephants Delicatessen PHRMA Board Member	Nicole Feightner, SHRM-SCP, PHR HR Business Partner PacifiCorp PHRMA Board Member