Laura Azzarella, PHR, MS HRM

1.          Briefly describe your organization and position:

I'm currently the Associate Vice President of Human Resources at Daemen University, a premier private college with locations in Amherst and Brooklyn, NY.  As part of the President's Cabinet for the past two years, I strategize how to best support and develop our 1,000+ faculty, administrators, staff, and student workers, leading a phenomenal team of four. I build collaborative relationships with people across all departments to make sure our HR initiatives are moving the university forward. My role allows me to partner closely with leadership, shaping the people-focused vision for Daemen.  Some highlights have included leveraging HR tech and SaaS for optimized analytics and leaner processes, building and facilitating leadership and staff development programs, and improving the talent acquisition life cycle.

2.          What do you enjoy most about HR?

HR is a strategic business partner that improves organizations by developing and empowering their people.  Throughout my career, I've intentionally changed industries from tech to finance to manufacturing and now higher ed, because I love learning new workplace cultures, norms, and understanding and valuing what "great" can look like in each space.  I then leverage my expertise to help the team get there. 

3.          How long have you been involved with the BNHRA?

I've been a member of SHRM since 2013, and joined the BNHRA in 2016, going to events and partnering with a study group to successfully earn my PHR certification.  Any time I've attended an event, I've had great connections and conversations- it is a remarkable group of people!

4.          In your spare time, what do you like to do for fun? 

I'm a freelance illustrator, (very casual) long distance runner, and rescue dog mom of two pups, Helios (Great Pyrenees/Bernese Mountain Dog mix) and Baldr (American Staffordshire Terrier mix).  My husband and I love to travel as much as we can, especially internationally.

5.          What is your favorite thing about Buffalo?

We have absolutely earned our reputation for being the "City of Good Neighbors."  You can always reach out to someone for help, insight, or just a great conversation.  People in Buffalo are delightful and easy to get to know, and that has been my experience with the great folks in the BNHRA.

6.          What has been the biggest influence on your career path? 

I have had the sincere privilege to have been at the table with senior leadership teams who trusted and collaborated with me.  I have also specifically worked for two leaders who helped coach and mentor me into the professional that I am today.  Leadership development is one of my greatest passions, and it's directly inherited from these folks and all the times I was able to ask questions, try new things, and grow.  Great leadership inspires.  The best way to pay forward my opportunities, then, is to make new ones accessible for others.

7.          Advice for those entering the HR industry:  

I love this question, and my answer is always the same:  you will never be 100% ready, and that's okay.  You will be faced with challenges for which you have no preparation, and you're going to have to do your best with the information that's available to you.  Face each situation by being inquisitive, empathetic, and fair:  you will grow from every challenge you encounter, and though they'll never stop, you will become more resilient and confident in handling them.