HR Virginia was honored to recognize two outstanding volunteer leaders at its recent annual leadership conference. Awards were given in two categories: Emerging Leader and Legacy Leader.
The Emerging Leader award recognizes a rising star who has made a significant impact within HR Virginia, a local chapter, or the HR profession. This individual is a new leader (with 3 years or less in a leadership/volunteer role) who demonstrates a strong commitment to SHRM values and has shown exceptional promise early in their leadership journey.
Desireé J. Alleyne SHRM-C, MBA-HR
Fredericksburg Regional SHRM
Desireé has been an integral part of the Fredericksburg SHRM chapter serving as VP, Membership. During her time, Fredericksburg SHRM switched to a dual membership chapter, and Desireé was instrumental in that effort. In addition to her role with Fredericksburg SHRM, Desiree also volunteered with the 2024 State Conference Committee, assisting with entertainment. Desireé worked with a vendor to allow attendees to do a step challenge and negotiated the fee down to $0! She was even able to convince them donate medals for our top winners. In addition, she was able to come up with some low cost activities for attendees to participate in, and she worked with the Richmond Tourism group to coordinate a restaurant list, trolley, and other entertainment options during the conference.
Desireé has great ideas that she has brought to improve not only her chapter, but the conference as well. She not only comes up with great ideas but she also helps implement them! During her short tenure with Fredericksburg SHRM, she has shown teamwork and outside-of-the-box thinking. When potential members come to meetings or events, Desiree’s friendly demeanor makes them feel welcome and they want to join the chapter!
The Legacy Leader Award honors an individual whose long-standing dedication to Human Resource Management has left a lasting impact. It is presented to a veteran SHRM leader who has contributed over 5 years of service at the chapter or state level, shaping the future of HR through their leadership and commitment.
Julie Coolbaugh, MS, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Prince William SHRM
Julie has been an integral part of Prince William SHRM for over 12 years, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the organization. Her extensive involvement includes serving on the Board of Directors in various capacities for multiple years: Director of Programs, President Elect, and President—twice. Currently, she excels as Treasurer. Julie’s credentials are impressive, with both SHRM-SCP and SPHR certifications, and she also contributes as a SHRM Instructor. Julie’s board colleagues value her exceptional empathy and her readiness to support the team wherever needed. As a legacy leader, she offers crucial historical insights that inform strategic decisions, all while balancing these with a forward-looking perspective. Her Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management from Villanova University further underscores her deep expertise. In her professional role as Senior Vice President at McDonough Bolyard Peck, Inc. (MBP), Julie oversees key HR programs, including Compensation Strategy, Diversity and Inclusion, Employee Relations, and Talent Acquisition. With over 25 years of experience across human resources, payroll, accounting, and business management, she excels at solving complex business problems and managing change efficiently.
Julie’s commitment extends beyond her corporate role; she is a certified Gallup Strengths Finder Coach dedicated to helping individuals and teams harness their strengths for greater effectiveness. Her leadership at MBP has garnered significant accolades, including the Cigna Well-Being Award, recognition as one of the Best Places to Work in Virginia, and the Zweig Group Best Firm to Work For. Julie’s dynamic leadership and extensive experience make her a cornerstone of both Prince William SHRM and MBP, continuously driving success and fostering growth within her organizations.
Congratulations to both award winners and thank you for all you do!
