SHRM Foundation Awards

SHRM Foundation Awards

The SHRM Foundation presents awards annually to exceptional HR professionals, students, academics, and researchers.

Michael R. Losey Excellence in HR Research Award

This SHRM Foundation award is named in honor of Michael R. Losey, who served the HR profession for more than 45 years, retired as president and CEO of SHRM in 2000, and is the author of Touching People's Lives: Leaders, Sorry or Joy (SHRM, 2017). 

A single award of $50,000 is presented annually during SHRM's Volunteer Leader Business Meeting.  The SHRM Foundation encourages nominations of academics with a significant body of work in the field of HR research. 

Eligibility

The award recognizes significant past and ongoing contributions to HR research. To be eligible, the nominee must engage with the HR practitioner community, and provide a portfolio of work that reflects a variety of research outputs, including substantial or sole contributions to books, chapters in books, and articles in refereed journals such as:

  • Human Resource Management (HRMJ)
  • Journal of Management (JOM)
  • Journal of Applied Psychology (JAP)
  • Academy of Management Journal (AMJ)
  • Personnel Psychology (PP)

How to Apply

A complete nomination package must include a current detailed CV or resume and a nomination letter of no more than two pages in length that includes:

  • A summary of the nominee's significant past and continuing research contributions related to the HR profession, including the focal point of the nominee's research
  • A description detailing why the individual is being nominated
  • A complete list of all publications and significant speaking engagements
  • A statement that highlights the nominee's work with HR practitioners
Completed applications should be mailed to LoseyAward@shrm.org

Special Considerations

  • An individual may submit or co-sign the nomination of more than one candidate.
  • This award is open to those who meet the eligibility requirements, with the exception of current SHRM and SHRM Foundation Board members, and members of SHRM volunteer panels.
  • Self-nominations will not be accepted. Although an individual cannot nominate him/herself or submit his/her own nomination package, any other individual may nominate someone who meets the eligibility criteria.
  • Only an individual from the chapter may nominate any person who meets the eligibility requirements.

For more information, please contact us at LoseyAward@shrm.org

Past Michael R. Losey Award Winners

Click on each name to learn more. Each profile includes information on the accomplishments of the recipient and will provide a benchmark of achievement that the selection committee considers during its deliberations. 

2019 - Denise Rousseau, Ph.D.
2018 - Barry Gerhart, Ph.D.

2017 - Herman Aguinis, Ph.D.

2016 - Paul Sparrow, Ph.D.

2015 - Susan E. Jackson, Ph.D.

2014 - Patrick Wright, Ph.D.

2013 - John Boudreau, Ph.D.

2012 - Eduardo Salas, Ph.D.

2011 - Sara Rynes Ph.D.

2010 - Wayne F. Cascio, Ph.D. 

2009 - Benjamin Schneider, Ph.D.

2008 - Herbert G. Heneman III, Ph.D.

2007 - Michael Beer, Ph.D.

2006 - Gary Latham, Ph.D.

2005 - Frank Schmidt, Ph.D.

2004 - Lee Dyer, Ph.D.

2003* - No award presented.

2002 - Edward E. Lawler, III, Ph.D.

* The Michael R. Losey Human Resource Research Award was suspended in 2003. Consequently, no winner was chosen.



Susan R. Meisinger Fellowship for Master's Degree Students

Susan R. Meisinger was the President and Chief Executive Officer of SHRM from March 2002 until her retirement in July 2008. Sue Meisinger has a passion for HR and strongly believes HR professionals must prepare for an HR career by not only gaining experience but also by pursuing a solid, meaningful and stringent education in the field of human resources. 

Prospective or current master's students who are interested in contributing to the HR management field are encouraged to apply for the Susan R. Meisinger Fellowship. The Meisinger Fellowship is for those who want to continue their commitment to the profession by earning a graduate degree in HR.

An award of $10,000 is presented annually during SHRM's Volunteer Leader Business Meeting and is renewable for a second year up to $20,000 total. 


Timeline

​Apply 
​Notified 
​Award presented 
​January  19 -
March 31, 2021
May 2021
​November 
2021
Eligibility

  • SHRM member OR an individual who holds a current SHRM Certification (SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP) at the time of application
  • Minimum of three years' work experience in HR
  • Minimum five years of total professional work experience (including HR experience)
  • Accepted or enrolled in a degree-seeking master's program at an accredited university. Universities in the United States must be regionally accredited; universities outside of the United States must be accredited by an accrediting body widely recognized within the country or by the government body that oversees higher education within the country
  • Must have at least 50% of the degree requirements remaining
  • The degree program is HR-related field (e.g. psychology, organizational development, MBA)
  • GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in an undergraduate program and 3.5 on a 4.0 scale in a graduate program (if enrolled)
  • Has not received another master's degree in an HR-related program

How to Apply?

  • Online application including:
    • Questions about work experience and career aspirations
    • Current resume
    • Official graduate transcript or undergraduate transcript if not yet enrolled in master's degree program
    • Copy of acceptance letter to master's degree program (if not currently enrolled)
    • Two letters of reference. Reference letters can be addressed to the "SHRM Foundation Scholarship Review Committee" and should provide insight into your character, career and volunteer accomplishments, work ethic, values and need for the scholarship. Letters may be written by colleagues, coaches, professors, volunteer colleagues, but cannot come from family members. 

*Transcripts must be in English. The SHRM Foundation may request an applicant with an international transcript to provide a transcript evaluation (at the applicant's expense), from World Education Services or another reputable service, prior to reviewing an application.





Expectations of Fellows

  • To accept the fellowship, recipients must commit to working in the HR field for a minimum of one year for every year of funding received. 
  • They must maintain their HR certification and/or SHRM membership throughout fellowship. 
  • They must maintain a 3.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) and university enrollment in their original master's degree program to be eligible for the second year of funding.
  • They will be recognized at the VLBM event in November of the award year.
  • Fellows who complete their program in good standing are not obligated to pay back the award. Whereas, Fellows who withdraw from their academic program early will be obligated to return any unused funds and will not be eligible for additional award distributions. 

Special Considerations

  • Fellowship recipients will be required to provide evidence of acceptance or enrollment in an HR-related program of study and a current college transcript upon receipt of an official award letter. 
  • Full-time, part-time, online, and distance learning programs are acceptable.
  • Fellowship payments are made directly to the recipient's university from the SHRM Foundation.
  • Applicants who have already completed their studies are not eligible for this award and may not apply for a fellowship to cover past expenses.
  • Fellowships are for college degree programs only and may not be used to attend professional development seminars.


 



UNDERGRADUATE Exploration in Human Resource Scholarship (Interest Award)

Eligibility

  • Open to non-SHRM members
  • Enrolled in equivalent of at least six (6) credit hours per term (or 15-week equivalency) in a degree-seeking undergraduate program at a regionally accredited institution of higher learning
  • At least two semesters remaining before graduation (see additional clarification below), OR accepted and ready to begin your studies within six months*
  • Degree program is HR-related (e.g. business, communications, psychology, sociology, HR, org development, etc.)
  • Cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale

    * If you have already begun your last semester or you have completed your studies by the notification date (see above), you are not eligible for this award and may not apply for a scholarship to cover past expenses.

 

How to Apply

Online application including:

  • Contact information
  • Short answer questions about academic, volunteer and work experience and career aspirations
  • Current resume
  • Transcripts from an accredited institution.*
    • Universities within the United States must be regionally accredited
    • Universities outside of the United States must be accredited by a widely recognized accrediting body within the country or by the agency or ministry that oversees higher education within the country
  • One letter of reference.**

* Transcripts must be in English. The SHRM Foundation may request an applicant with an international transcript to provide a transcript evaluation (at the applicant's expense), from World Education Services or another reputable service, prior to reviewing an application.

** Letters of reference will be submitted online and can be addressed to the 'SHRM Foundation Review Committee' and should provide insight into applicant's character, career and/or volunteer accomplishments, work ethic, values and need for the scholarship. Letters may be written by work or volunteer colleagues, coaches, professors, etc. but should not come from family members. Applicants must request all recommendation letters through our scholarship application system. SHRM Foundation cannot accept recommendation letters directly from applicants.

 Selection Criteria

Scholarships Includes:

  • $1,200 scholarship, payment sent directly to your institution
  • 1-year SHRM Membership (begins September 1)

Scholarship Distribution

If you are selected to receive an Exploration in Human Resource Scholarship, you will be required to provide proof of enrollment and college/university payment instructions (including institutional tax ID). The SHRM Foundation will issue a check not to exceed $1,200 directly to the institution for payment of tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance at the educational institution, or for fees, books, supplies, and equipment required for courses at the educational institution. You will also receive a complimentary SHRM Student Membership to further learn and explore the field of human resources. 

Additional Information

Each scholarship is a one-time award, previous Exploration in Human Resource Scholarship recipients are NOT eligible to re-apply. However, past recipients are eligible to apply to for Undergraduate Scholarships or Graduate Scholarships if meeting minimum eligibility requirements.  Full-time, part-time, online and distance learning programs are acceptable. Scholarships are for college-degree programs only and may not be used to attend professional development seminars.



Dissertation Grants

SHRM Foundation Dissertation Grants are awarded to four promising researchers in the field of human resource management at the dissertation stage of their doctoral education. This annual competition is funded by the SHRM Foundation, in partnership with the HR Division of the Academy of Management and is intended to support the dissertation research of doctoral candidates.

Winners of these grants receive a plaque, a $5,000 gift from the SHRM Foundation, and are honored at the Academy of Management's annual meeting. 

Applicants for this award must be members of the Academy of Management. To learn more or apply please visit the SHRM Foundation Dissertation Grants page on the HR Division pages of the Academy of Management. 

Student Chapter Advisor Impact Award

Each year the SHRM Foundation recognizes the accomplishments and efforts of Chapter Advisors through the SHRM Foundation Chapter Advisor Impact Award.  The award is presented to a deserving SHRM student chapter advisor who has made a positive impact in the life of one or more student members.  Examples include:

  • Introducing the student to the field of HR and inspiring her/him to pursue it.
  • Developing student leaders who go on to hold other leadership roles.
  • Connecting the student to HR professionals in the community and assisting with internship and/or job opportunities.
  • Involving students in service projects that make a difference in the local community.
  • Leading and facilitating efforts to collaborate with another campus, business, or community organizations on service, business, or educational projects.

Nominations for the award will be accepted from any student chapter officers, members, former members, other faculty, or SHRM professional members. Nominations must be made via online application. 

Award Distribution

The winning advisor will receive:

  • A commemorative plaque
  • $1,000 cash award
  • Complimentary registration to the SHRM Annual Conference & Exposition
  • Travel funding up to $1,000 to attend
The award will be presented during the SHRM Annual Conference & Exposition.  

Nominations must be made online.

**Winners of the Advisor Impact Award are ineligible to win the award again for five years.


SHRM Student Membership Award

Purpose

  • The Student Member Award will provide opportunities for student members to remain connected to support and resources to help launch their careers in Human Resources.

Eligibility

  • Must be a current SHRM student members (at time of application due date).
  • Enrolled in a degree-seeking undergraduate program OR graduate program from a regionally accredited institution of higher learning.
  • Degree program in HR-related field (e.g. business, communications, psychology, sociology, HR, org development, etc.)
  • Applicants must be graduating in the same year as applying for the membership award
  • Cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for undergraduate or 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for graduate students.

How to Apply

Online application including:

  • Contact information
  • One short answer question about career aspirations
  • Current resume
  • Transcripts from an accredited institution.*
    • Universities within the United States must be regionally accredited
    • Universities outside of the United States must be accredited by a widely recognized accrediting body within the country or by the agency or ministry that oversees higher education within the country

* Transcripts must be in English. The SHRM Foundation may request an applicant with an international transcript to provide a transcript evaluation (at the applicant's expense), from World Education Services or another reputable service, prior to reviewing an application.

** Letters of reference will be submitted online and can be addressed to the 'SHRM Foundation Review Committee' and should provide insight into applicant's character, career and/or volunteer accomplishments, work ethic, values and need for the scholarship. Letters may be written by work or volunteer colleagues, coaches, professors, etc. but should not come from family members. Applicants must request all recommendation letters through our scholarship application system. SHRM Foundation cannot accept recommendation letters directly from applicants.

 Selection Criteria

Award

  • 1-year SHRM Membership (begins at the expiration of your current membership)

Award Distribution

If selected to receive the Student Member Award, your next annual membership fee will be paid by the SHRM Foundation. 

Additional Information

Previous Student Member Award recipients are NOT eligible to re-apply.  


Mentor of the Year

Eligibility

  • Person submitting application must be a current SHRM member (active membership throughout the year in which the award is received)
  • Mentor must be employed full-time in a Human Resources related position or role (HR Faculty is acceptable).
  • Mentor and Mentee must have been working together and collaborating for at least 6 months.

How to Apply

Online application including:

  • Contact information for both mentor and mentee
  • Short answer questions about mentor/mentee relationship, connection to HR, and career aspirations
  • One letter of reference**

** Letters of reference will be submitted online and can be addressed to the 'SHRM Foundation Review Committee' and should provide insight into the relationship between the mentor and mentee, including length of time, projects of collaboration, changes in skills and behaviors or examples of success.  Letters may be written by work or volunteer colleagues, coaches, professors, friends or family members who can truly speak to the successful relationship dynamic. Applicants must request all recommendation letters through our scholarship application system. SHRM Foundation cannot accept recommendation letters directly from applicants.

 Selection Criteria

  • 35% Examples of successful mentoring relationship (i.e., improved GPA, career support, or skill development)
  • 25% Commitment to/passion for the HR profession
  • 20% Volunteer, leadership and service activities (SHRM experience preferred, but not required; work related to the SHRM Foundation's mission and vision to promote inclusive workplaces, including together forward at work, employing abilities, getting talent back to work, and veterans at work is highly desirable)
  • 20% Resiliency

Award (for both Mentor and Mentee)

  • Complimentary full-conference registration*
  • Up to four-night hotel stay**
  • $500 travel stipend***

*Pre-conference sessions, seminars and guest registration not included.

**Housing will be provided at a hotel of SHRM's choice.

*** SHRM Foundation will reimburse recipients for all travel- related expenses up to $500 following submission of itemized receipts

 

Award Distribution

If you are selected to receive the Mentor the Year Award, a member of the SHRM Foundation team will work with the two recipients (mentor and mentee) on annual conference registrations and hotel bookings.  Recipients are responsible for scheduling travel plans and submitting all itemized travel related invoices/receipts not to exceed $500.00 (i.e., flight, gas, tolls, taxi/uber, etc.).

Additional Information

Previous Mentor/Mentee award recipients are NOT eligible to re-apply for a minimum of five years.