Susan L. Connaughton, BS, SHRM-CP, is an accomplished nonprofit and human resources professional with more than 30 years of experience advancing programs and services that help individuals and families achieve social and economic self-sufficiency. Her work has supported access to education, health and prevention services, and other essential basic-needs resources.  Susan earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Family Development and Human Studies from the University of Rhode Island in 1987. She began her career as an early childhood educator and later moved into nonprofit leadership, transitioning in 1992 from Education Coordinator to Administrator and Head Start Director. She further strengthened her leadership expertise through the Head Start Johnson & Johnson Management Fellows Program at UCLA’s School of Management.  Since beginning her human resources career in 2006, Susan has developed extensive experience in employee relations, performance management, policy development, benefits and leave administration, recruitment, compliance, professional development, and organizational leadership. She completed an intensive eight-week Human Resource Boot Camp and earned her Certified Professional credential through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-CP).  Susan is also certified to provide Mental Health First Aid and is a member of both the Rhode Island Society for Human Resource Management and the Society for Human Resource Management. She brings a people-centered, practical approach to human resources, grounded in the belief that strong workplaces help employees, and the communities they serve.

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