★ FAQs

Questions, answered.

Everything you need to know about joining SMPHR — membership tiers, benefits, recertification credits, renewal, and getting involved.

★ Joining SMPHR

Membership & dues

Tiers, pricing, payment, and what your membership year actually covers.

  • What is SMPHR?

    SMPHR's vision is to be the premier, thought-leading Human Resources organization that develops, connects, and supports diverse professionals while serving our communities. Our mission is to provide career development and networking opportunities for HR professionals and advocates, creating value in their respective organizations and communities. Our core values include mirroring the community we serve, inclusion and respect, professional development through continuous learning, and integrity.

  • Do I have to be from an underrepresented background to join?

    Not at all. SMPHR welcomes everyone — HR professionals, business and corporate leaders, legal and finance colleagues, students, and anyone who cares about building a more inclusive workplace. “Multicultural” means all of us: every culture, every background, every story. If that resonates with you, you have a place here.

  • How much does it cost to join SMPHR?

    Membership is offered at four tiers. Student Membership is $40 — you must be a full-time student enrolled in an accredited college or university, and proof of student status may be requested. Professional Membership is $125. Business Owner Membership is $250. Corporate Membership is a $3,000 sponsorship fee plus $1,000 (covering 10 members at $100 each).

  • How can I pay my membership dues?

    New members join through the website by selecting “Join As An Individual,” completing the membership form, and following the remaining prompts. Current members renew by accessing the membership renewal page.

  • When is the membership year?

    SMPHR recognizes an anniversary year as your membership year, so you get the full benefit of 12 months of membership from the date you join.

  • When will I receive my renewal notice?

    You'll begin receiving renewal reminders by email 30 days prior to your membership expiration date, followed by friendly reminders 7 days before the renewal date and again on your actual renewal date. A final notification is sent by email 3 days after your membership has expired.

  • Are SMPHR membership dues tax deductible?

    Yes — SMPHR membership dues are tax deductible.

  • Are membership dues refundable?

    No. SMPHR membership dues are non-refundable.

  • When can I start to use my member benefits?

    Once your membership has been activated, you can begin taking advantage of your benefits immediately.

★ What you get

Benefits & credits

Programming, networking, and the HRCI and SHRM recertification credits earned by attending.

  • What are the SMPHR member benefits?

    Membership includes networking opportunities; special community- and regionally-based programming with timely, relevant content that earns HRCI and SHRM credits; personal and professional development; the chance to cultivate meaningful relationships and join committees; career connections for job opportunities; and community service opportunities.

  • Can I earn HRCI and SHRM recertification credits through SMPHR?

    Yes. SMPHR chapter meetings deliver relevant HR and industry content from influential speakers, and attendees earn HRCI and SHRM credits for participating.

  • How often are SMPHR meetings held?

    SMPHR hosts meetings once a quarter, and the cost is included in your annual membership fee. Meetings typically rotate between morning and evening sessions and include refreshments where applicable. Content includes (but is not limited to) relevant HR and industry topics, influential speakers, education and awareness, networking opportunities, and HRCI and SHRM credits for those in attendance.

  • Is there a fee to attend the chapter meetings?

    Currently, there is no cost to attend chapter meetings — attendance is included in your membership.

  • If I refer someone to SMPHR, is there a reward for referrals?

    Currently, we do not have a referral program in place.

★ Get involved

Volunteer & committees

Where the work actually happens — and how members shape the chapter.

  • How can I volunteer with SMPHR?

    Members volunteer by joining a committee that matches their interests. Active committees include Branding & Digital Media Strategy, Communications & Marketing, Community Outreach / External Affairs, Membership, and Programs & Professional Development.

Still have a question?

We're happy to help. Reach out and a member of the team will get back to you.

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