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Registration

Keynote Speakers

Masters Series

Preconference Workshops

Educational Programs

SHRM Exposition

Networking &
Special Activities

Hotel & Travel Information

International Attendees

Conference at a Glance (PDF)

Conference Full Brochure (PDF)

Resources

 

The annual SHRM conference is the very cornerstone of Aflac’s HR conference initiative. No other event offers Aflac the access to so many of the country’s top HR and benefits decision makers. Aflac has become one of the most recognized corporate brands in American business through the Aflac duck. But the fundamental reason why we are the choice of over 300,000 payroll accounts across the United States is that Aflac enhances the value of employee benefit packages. The SHRM conference is the perfect venue for us to say thanks to many of our current clients and introduce ourselves to key HR professionals from across the country. There is no other conference like it.
Jeff Herbert
Chief Marketing Officer, Aflac

The SHRM annual conference
The SHRM annual conference is the best investment for our HR marketing dollar.  In my 25 years of exhibiting at numerous trades shows and conferences, I have never been treated better by any organization and I have never seen an organization work so diligently and creatively to draw non-stop traffic to the exhibitor area. The SHRM event organizers are truly in a class all their own!  Thank you very much and we are already booked for next year!
Brian D. Taylor
VP of Business Development
LawLogix Group, Inc.

Networking & Special Activities

Tuesday Night Show with Lionel Richie

Global Networking Lounge

Optional Tours

SHRM Child Care

Conference Orientation

SHRM Publications and New Media

Global Partners

SHRM Store

Tuesday Night Show

June 24, 8:00 p.m.

One ticket is included in your full conference registration fee. Additional show tickets can be purchased on the registration form or on-site. Registrants will receive a coupon that must be exchanged on-site in Chicago, Illinois for an entrance ticket.
Sponsored by: Liberty Mutual

Richie photoYou can comb the incredible statistics surrounding Lionel Richie’s amazing career and still miss something. You can factor in the nearly 60 million albums sold, the five Grammy’s, twenty two top ten hits, an Oscar for best song, a Golden Globe Award, a treasure chest of People’s choice and American Music Awards too numerous to count, and a discography of albums and singles that navigate an emotional landscape that only few writer/performers have ever truly captured—and still not see what may be the key to this incredible musical legacy. From his days with the Commodores to embarking on a solo career, Lionel Richie has always been a force to be reckoned with. Never afraid to infuse different music cultures to his music, Lionel churns out hit after hit, garnering numerous prestigious awards for his tremendous musical integrity and talent.

 

Some of his hits include, “Say You, Say Me,” “We Are the World (Written with Michael Jackson),” “Hello,” “All Night Long,” “Truly,” “Endless Love,” “Lady,” “Still (The Commodores)” and “Three Times a Lady (The Commodores).”

 

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Global Networking Lounge

Sponsored by: GMAC

 

The Global Networking Lounge is a special gathering place for attendees from outside the United States and for those interested in international HR.  Please come and participate in scheduled activities including an international reception, educational table topic lunches and opportunities for establishing valuable contacts.

 

The Global Networking Lounge Schedule*:

Saturday, June 21 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 22 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Monday, June 23 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Tuesday, June 24 7:00 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 25 7:00 a.m.–Noon

 

*Schedule subject to change

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Optional Tours

The optional tour program brings together first timers, conference veterans and guests to participate in several activities both before and during the conference. It is an excellent opportunity for people who are coming in early and traveling alone to network and meet other conference attendees.

 

In the Loop—Chicago, Inc. is the official provider of the 2008 SHRM Annual Conference tour program.

 

Chicago Architecture Cruise and Michigan Avenue

$74 per person

Sunday, June 22, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

Tuesday, June 24, 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

 

Discover the beauty and rich architectural history of world-famous buildings with a cruise down the Chicago River. You will see it all, from the gothic greatness of the Tribune Tower to the Sears Tower. During your 90-minutes on board, sit back, relax and listen as your expert narrator guides you through the development of Chicago’s magnificent skyline. Your lesson in architecture is not over when you step off the boat. Your expert tour guide will highlight the attractions and shops in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood and give you free time on Michigan Avenue.

Note: Please wear rubber-soled shoes. Boat will cruise, rain or shine.

 

Chicago City Highlights Tour

$56 per person

Sunday, June 22, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

 

This tour will allow you to sample the strength and beauty of this great city. An expert guide will point out the towering buildings of downtown and the upscale residences of the Gold Coast. Pause for a photo at the museum campus, home to the Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum. Cruise down Michigan Avenue, “the Magnificent Mile,” home to countless renowned designers and shops. Glimpse the Merchandise Mart and other architectural marvels, a unique collection that rivals any city in the country. Along the way you’ll see some of the ethnic enclaves that make Chicago a “city of neighborhoods,” such as Little Italy. On your ride back, you will pass Millennium Park as well as the Symphony Center and The Art Institute of Chicago. Upon your return home, you can truly say you saw Chicago.
Note: Remember, wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera for some great photos!

 

Chicago Neighborhoods

$61 per person

Tuesday, June 24, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

 

Did you know that Chicago is represented by more then 40 ethnic groups? With this tour through Chicago’s most diverse neighborhoods, discover for yourself the rich heritage and old world traditions of its residents. The tour will begin with a brief trip through Chicago’s Little Italy District, before moving on to the oriental themed boulevards of Chinatown. Travel from the sights and sounds of Chinatown to Greektown to Chicago’s Mexican community in Pilsen. By exploring these diverse neighborhoods, you will witness the Chicago that exists beyond Michigan Avenue. Experience the customs that have shaped Chicago into the culturally rich city that it is today.
Note: Remember, wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera for some great photos!

 

Frank Lloyd Wright & Oak Park

$111 per person

Monday, June 23, 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.

 

You will journey to the nearby suburban neighborhood of Oak Park, where Frank Lloyd Wright’s legend began. During a tour through his home and studio, an expert docent will
recount the story of Wright’s work and life in Oak Park, the location where he and his family spent the first 20 years of his career. After leaving the artists home and studio, your docent will take you on a relaxing stroll through the neighborhood’s Historic District which boats 25 other Wright buildings. The tour will be concluded with lunch at a favorite neighborhood Oak Park restaurant and a visit to Unity Temple, the first public space created by Wright in 1908.
Note: Please wear comfortable shoes.

 

Greektown & Chicago by Night

$106 per person

Saturday, June 21, 6:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

 

Go west to Greektown for a delightful dinner at one of Chicago’s favorite eateries. Discover the unique cuisine of this wonderful ethnic neighborhood. After dinner…discover Chicago by night. This city is full of surprises, from the glimmering lakefront to its outdoor museum of architecture. Stop at the Sears Tower, Chicago’s tallest building, which claims to have the city’s longest view: 80 miles in any direction on a clear day! Before returning, an expert guide will point out and provide commentary about the towering buildings and unique monuments of downtown that make up the city.

Note: Tour includes a four course dinner and wine service based on two glasses per person.

 

Museum of Science and Industry and Hyde Park

$71 per person

Saturday, June 21, 12:15 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

 

At the Museum of Science & Industry, satisfy your curiosity and learn about some of the world’s most intriguing phenomenons. A trip to the Museum of Science & Industry is never complete without taking in a show at the state-of-the-art Omnimax Theater. Settle in beneath the theater’s immense five (5)-story dome for an extraordinary experience that involves all senses. Before returning downtown, your guide will take you through the surrounding neighborhoods of Hyde Park. Admire historic homes, beautiful skyline views, and one of the country’s most prestigious universities, the University of Chicago.

Note: Please wear comfortable shoes.

 

Second City Comedy Performance

$66 per person

Monday, June 23, 7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

 

Experience the ultimate comedic performance at Second City! This comedy club is a
famous North American institution for stand-up comedy. Legendary alumni who began their careers at Second City in Chicago include Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, and Gilda Radner. The main stage is the perfect spot for you to be entertained by some of the most talented improvisational actors around. This is a great casual evening for you to enjoy a Chicago icon. Be on the look out, you may even see a performance from the next comedic legend to be.

 

Purchase

To purchase your tour(s) click here.

 

If you experience any difficulties in registering or have any questions about the tours, please contact In the Loop-Chicago, Inc. at (312) 870-1188 or by e-mail at shrmtours@intheloop-chicago.com

 

Cancellations and Refunds

Attendee cancellation for any tour must be submitted in writing to In the Loop-Chicago, Inc. via fax (312) 870-1188 or email no later than Friday, June 6, 2008. Attendee cancellation requests received in writing on or before Friday June 6, 2008 will receive a full refund minus a $10 processing fee. No requests for refunds will be accepted after Friday, June 6, 2008. On-site registration will be available for additional tours, subject to availability. No refunds will be made at the tour registration desk.   

 

If a low-enrollment tour is cancelled, your money will be refunded in. All refunds will be processed within one month of tour date.

 

Special Accommodations

Any participant requiring services indentified in the American with Disabilities Act including wheelchair access or other special needs, must request those services in advance. When you register please indicate that special services are required and a planner will contact you to determine the exact requirements.

 

Confirmations and Ticketing

Once your tour reservation request is handled, In the Loop-Chicago will email you a confirmation letter summarizing tour details and specifying payment status. You can pick up your tour tickets at the SHRM Tour Desk, located in the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers. 

 

The tour ticket desk will be open during the following hours*:

Saturday, June 21 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Sunday, June 22 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Monday, June 23 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 24 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

 

*Schedule subject to change

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SHRM Child Care

Sponsored by: Bright Horizons

 

A childcare center, hosted by SHRM and Bright Horizons Family Solutions, will be available during the conference for children between the ages of 2-1/2 and 12 (all children must be potty trained). While you are attending sessions, the early childhood professionals at Bright Horizons will provide an exciting atmosphere and learning experience for your children.

 

The SHRM Childcare Center will operate on the following schedule*:

Sunday, June 22 8:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Monday, June 23 6:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, June 24 6:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, June 25 6:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

 

*Schedule subject to change

Please note: The Childcare Center is not available for the Tuesday Night Event. There will be a daily charge for the care of each child. For more information, please call (888) 223-4674 or (817) 856-5737.

 

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Conference Orientation

Sunday, June 22

11:00 a.m.–Noon

 

If you are attending the SHRM Annual Conference & Exposition for the first time or want to network and see what’s new at the conference this year, this program will provide helpful hints for navigating your way through the conference as well as help you meet colleagues from all over the world.

 

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SHRM Publications and New Media

SHRM’s award-winning publications and Web site keep HR professionals up-to-date
on critical issues and information needed to perform their jobs better.

 

HR MagazineHR Magazine is the largest and most influential publication serving the HR industry. SHRM’s monthly flagship publication delivers information critical to your personal and professional success. Look for the June issue of HR Magazine in your conference on-site registration bag.

 

SHRM Conference DailySHRM Conference Daily is the inside source for live news coverage at the conference and will provide you with useful information to make your conference experience successful and enjoyable. You’ll love our daily coverage of the major presentations, events and news coming from the conference—delivered right to your room each morning! There will be distribution to many hotels by 6:00 a.m. and will also be available at McCormick Place.

 

Staffing ManagementStaffing Management is the largest publication serving staffing and recruiting professionals. This quarterly magazine covers key issues affecting the full cycle of recruitment and employment activities, as well as labor economics, diversity, background screening and reference checking, technology solutions, compensation, benefits, strategic HR and more. Subscribe today at www.shrm.org/subscribe.

 

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Global Partners

As founding member of the World Federation of Personnel Management Associations (WFPMA), SHRM interacts with HR associations in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and North America. In 1997, SHRM helped found the North American Human Resource Management Association (NAHRMA) to provide regional representation for Canada, the United States and Mexico. Currently, SHRM serves on the boards of WFPMA and NAHRMA. In cooperation with these organizations, SHRM strives to contribute to the strategic development of the HR profession worldwide. Many partner organizations will be present at the 60th Annual Conference & Exposition in Chicago, Illinois.

 

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SHRM Store

Visit the SHRMStore for the largest collection of HR books, videos, DVDs and accessories. Find books on compensation and benefits, global HR, outsourcing, diversity, affirmative action, recruitment, training, best practices and many more HR-related subjects. For more information, visit the Web site at www.shrmstore.shrm.org.

 

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