SHRM Annual Conference Concludes in Orlando With Inspiring Keynote Address from Oprah Winfrey

ORLANDO, Fla. – Today, SHRM, the trusted authority on all things work, workers, and the workplace, concluded its Annual Conference & Expo (SHRM26) in Orlando and virtually. Attendees heard from hundreds of speakers, explored emerging workplace trends, and gained practical insights to help address today's most pressing workforce challenges. 

The Orange County Convention Center welcomed nearly 20,000 human resource professionals, executives, students, and workplace leaders from across the United States and around the world for one of the largest gatherings of HR professionals globally. 

Throughout the conference, attendees participated in more than 375 educational sessions covering topics including artificial intelligence, workplace culture, leadership, talent strategy, compliance, employee experience, and the future of work. 

The conference culminated with an inspiring keynote address from global media leader and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey, who called HR leaders “custodians of culture” who should not lose sight of the human element of work amid rapid technological and workplace transformation. 

“Human resources isn't just about spreadsheets and policies,” Winfrey said. “It's about human potential." 

SHRM26 also featured a thoughtful session from BambooHR CEO Brad Rencher and bestselling author and leadership expert Simon Sinek.

Their sessions challenged attendees to think differently about leadership, purpose, workplace culture, and the role organizations play in helping people and businesses thrive together. 

In addition to keynote presentations, attendees connected with peers, explored innovative workplace solutions, and engaged with leading experts on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of work. 

The conference also highlighted emerging research, practical strategies, and forward-looking conversations designed to help organizations navigate rapid workplace transformation while building stronger, more resilient cultures. Across keynote presentations and educational sessions, a common theme emerged: successful organizations will be those that embrace innovation while continuing to invest in people, leadership, and workplace culture.  

Throughout her remarks, Winfrey also reminded attendees that while technology and business priorities may change, the need for connection, purpose and belonging remains constant. She encouraged leaders to approach their work with intention and to recognize the impact they have on the lives and careers of others. 

"There is not a person that you meet or see, and certainly not anybody that you're dealing with in your work environment, that doesn't want to know that they're OK," Winfrey said. 

SHRM thanks its members, speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers, and attendees for making SHRM26 a success. 

To learn more about SHRM events, research, and workplace resources, please visit SHRM.org. 

About SHRM

SHRM is a member-driven catalyst for creating better workplaces where people and businesses thrive together. As the trusted authority on all things work, SHRM is the foremost expert, researcher, advocate, and thought leader on issues and innovations impacting today's evolving workplaces. With nearly 340,000 members in 180 countries, SHRM touches the lives of more than 362 million workers and their families globally. Discover more at SHRM.org.