Joanne Harris, Director of Human Resources at Mount Desert Island Hospital recently earned certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources.
The certification, awarded by the HR Certification Institute, signifies that Ms. Harris possesses the theoretical knowledge and practical experience in human resource management necessary to pass a rigorous examination demonstrating a mastery of the body of knowledge in the field.
“Certification as a human resource professional clearly demonstrates a commitment to personal excellence and to the human resource profession,” said Mary Power, CAE, Executive Director of the HR Certification Institute.
Harris joined MDI Hospital in May of 2008, having previously served as Director of Internal Laboratory Relations at The Jackson Laboratory. She has more than 30 years experience in personnel management and human resources.
Harris received a Bachelors degree in Political Science from Florida State University in 1972. Between 1977 and 1979, she served as Employment Manager at Eastern Maine Medical Center.
In 1979, she joined The Jackson Laboratory as a Personnel Specialist and, after a series of promotions, served as the Lab’s Director of Human Resources and, finally as the Director of Internal Laboratory Relations.
“Certification as a Senior Professional in Human Resources is a personal as well as professional accomplishment. I had to draw on my many years of experience and also a theoretical, comprehensive understanding of this dynamic field to achieve it,” said Harris. “And as a Human Resources Director, I believe it is important to set an example of professional growth and development.”
The HR Certification Institute is the credentialing body for human resource professionals and is affiliated with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the world’s largest organization dedicated exclusively to the human resource profession. The Institute’s purpose is to promote the establishment of professional standards and to recognize professionals who meet those standards.