Seniors Megan Gilligan, Anna Ellis, Nancy Wilkins and Matthew Graffeo earned the SHRM Certified Professional credential after passing the global HR exam in spring 2025.
Four Ƶ seniors from the Class of 2025, Megan Gilligan, Anna Ellis, Nancy Wilkins and Matthew Graffeo, recently passed the Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) exam, a globally recognized credential that distinguishes emerging HR talent.
Gilligan, a human resource management major from Port Washington, New York, called the certification “a valuable milestone. The classes and professors at Ƶ really helped me feel confident and prepared. I’m excited to put everything I’ve learned into practice and keep growing as I begin my career in HR.”
Ellis, a human resources major from Charlotte, North Carolina, said the credential affirms her commitment to the profession. “Getting this certificate proves to myself and others that I have the base knowledge and drive to succeed in a human resources career.”
Wilkins, a human resource management major from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, noted the career boost the SHRM-CP provides. “It shows employers that I have a strong foundation within HR and makes me a more attractive candidate, with higher salary potential. Earning my SHRM-CP has also made me more confident as I prepare to take on many different HR roles and tasks.”
Graffeo, a human resource management major from Mount Sinai, New York, views the certification as a dual achievement. “First, it affirms I’m ready to step confidently into the professional world of HR. Second, graduating with this certification sets me apart from many other entry-level HR professionals and signals to employers that I have the drive to contribute to their company.”
Love Term Professor of Management Brian Lyons, adviser to Ƶ’s SHRM student chapter, said, “Passing the SHRM-CP exam as undergraduates is a remarkable accomplishment that speaks to the competence and dedication of these students. Megan, Anna, Nancy, and Matthew have set themselves apart as emerging leaders in the HR field, and I am confident that they will make a meaningful impact on their organizations.”