2026 Small HR Teams Peer Exchange

If professional development is a priority for you in 2026, the HR Small Peer Exchange Group offers a meaningful way to invest in your growth without adding another overwhelming commitment to your calendar.

This peer exchange group is designed for experienced HR professionals who want to learn, reflect, and grow alongside peers facing similar challenges. Through facilitated discussions and shared experiences, participants gain practical insights they can immediately apply in their roles or client work.

Whether you attend one session or the full series, each conversation supports your continued development as a strategic, thoughtful, and confident HR leader.

Are you managing HR responsibilities as a team of one or part of a small group? This open forum is designed specifically for you. Join fellow solo and small-team HR professionals in a supportive space where you can share the unique challenges you’re facing, ask questions, and exchange practical solutions. Whether you’re juggling multiple roles, navigating limited resources, or seeking new ideas to address today’s HR demands, this session is your opportunity to connect, be heard, and learn from peers who truly understand your situation.

What to Expect: 

• 12 total sessions in 2026, plus, bonus sessions
• Flexible registration so you can attend the sessions most relevant to you
• Facilitated, peer-driven discussions rather than lectures or sales pitches
• Real-world insights that support your ongoing professional development
• Opportunities to learn from fellow HR leaders while sharing your own expertise
• Education Credits

Why Participate in 2026? 

As HR roles continue to evolve, staying current and connected matters more than ever. This group provides:

• Exposure to emerging HR trends and best practices
• A safe space to talk through complex challenges
• Peer learning that complements formal certifications and training
• Professional development that feels relevant, practical, and energizing

Participants often find these conversations sharpen their perspective, build confidence, and strengthen their impact within their organizations.

Topics We Will Explore: 

Session topics will be shaped by participant input and may include:

• HR strategy and executive partnership
• Talent attraction, retention, and performance management
• Compliance, employee relations, and risk management
• AI, HR technology, and data-driven decision-making
• Culture, leadership, and employee experience
• Manager capability, burnout prevention, and wellbeing

Who Should Attend? 

• HR Managers and Directors
• Senior HR Generalists and Business Partners
• HR Consultants supporting small to mid-sized organizations
• Mile High SHRM members looking for thoughtful professional development and peer connection

Visit the MH SHRM Events page to view the full 2026 HR Small Peer Exchange Group schedule and register for the sessions that align with your professional development goals.

Thank you for considering an investment in your future and your continued growth as an HR professional. We look forward to learning with you and welcoming you into this peer exchange group in 2026!

About Your Moderators

Tonia Martinez - HR Small Teams

Tonia Martinez is the CEO, recruiter, and fractional HR consultant who partners with growing organizations to strengthen their people practices. She brings deep experience in HR strategy, talent acquisition, onboarding, employee retention, and organizational culture.

Through her consulting work, Tonia supports small and mid-sized businesses by helping leaders hire thoughtfully, onboard effectively, and create environments where employees can do their best work. She is known for her practical, people-centered approach and her ability to facilitate open, honest conversations in a collaborative and supportive setting.

Tonia studies at Regis University, where she will soon earn her Bachelor of Science in Organizational Development with double minors in Communications and Human Resources. She is passionate about helping organizations understand the value of creating great workplace environments that drive engagement, retention, and long-term success.

Elizabeth "Liz" Whitmore - Government

I am currently the Human Resources Director for the Governor’s Office, State of Colorado.  I have been in this role since April 2024. Prior to my current position, I was the Associate Vice President of Human Resources at Regis University for 4.5 years and prior to that I worked for 6 years at the City of Lone Tree as their Chief People Officer. In each of my roles, I provided leadership in talent acquisition, total rewards (compensation and benefits), talent management (employee relations, learning and development and performance management). I am passionate about leveraging HR strategies to support organizational goals and enhance employee experience.
 
I have a BS in Business Administration, an MBA and EdD in Organizational Leadership. My dissertation topic was on mid-level leadership in local government. I also hold the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and the SHRM-Senior Certified Professional certifications.

Lorena Toland -Nonprofit

Lorena is the founder of KindlyHR Consulting and brings over 18 years of experience in Human Resources, with a background spanning both hospitality and nonprofit organizations. Her experience spans across all HR functions, including strategy, risk management, talent, benefits, and learning and development.

As a native Spanish speaker, Lorena values open, authentic communication and understands the impact of creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and respected. She is especially passionate about helping organizations build cultures where individuals can bring their full selves to work and feel connected to the mission they serve.