GEN conference adds HRCI credit, new Global Impact partnership and speakers

The Global ERG Network’s 2026 Annual Conference in Charlotte now includes HRCI recertification credit, a new partnership with Global Impact and several added speakers. The expanded Nov. 10–11 program is aimed at ERG, Council, HR and people leaders looking for practical tools and professional development.

Why it matters: - The GEN Annual Conference is adding professional-development value for HR and people leaders by offering HRCI recertification credit. - A new partnership with Global Impact expands the conference’s reach into workplace giving and volunteerism. - The added speakers and sessions increase the program’s focus on practical ERG and Council execution, not just theory.

What happened: - The Global ERG Network announced that its 2026 Annual Conference now includes HRCI recertification credit. - The conference is scheduled for Nov. 10–11 in Charlotte, North Carolina. - Global Impact has joined as a new partner. - Additional speakers have been added to the agenda. - Registration remains open through Oct. 9, with limited seats left.

The details: - The conference is approved by the HR Certification Institute for 5.75 HR General recertification credit hours. - Full credit details, including eligible certifications, are available at conference information. - Global Impact is a philanthropy advisory and infrastructure organization that has raised more than $3 billion for global causes since 1956. - The partnership includes a fall workshop for Global Impact’s Charity Alliance members. - The partnership also includes a breakout session at the Out & Equal Workplace Summit and an in-person workshop at GENC. - GEN said the partnership reflects a shared belief that employee networks connected to the right structures can create outcomes that extend beyond a single program. - Tanya Wright, a two-time SAG Award winner, Harvard Graduate School of Education alum and children’s media entrepreneur, is already confirmed for the agenda. - Ke’Lynn Hill, DEI Program Manager at Ferrara Candy Company, will present “From the Plant Floor to the C-Suite: Scaling BRG Engagement and Impact Across the Organization.” - Hill’s session will focus on scaling Business Resource Group engagement for a workforce that does not sit behind a desk. - Elias Lemon, Vice President of Belonging and Engagement at NMDP, will present “Stronger Together: Building Your ERG Ecosystem Beyond Company Walls.” - Lemon’s session will focus on connecting with nearby ERG leaders to strengthen both the organization and the broader community. - Dr. Kevin England of Infinito Associates will lead “The Story Behind the Work: Storytelling for ERG Leaders and Program Managers.” - England’s workshop will focus on shaping messages that move executives or volunteers to act. - Sponsorship opportunities are available at sponsorship information.

Between the lines: - GEN is leaning harder into the value proposition of ERG and Council work as a business and talent strategy. - The HRCI approval gives the event a clearer reason for HR leaders to attend, especially as conference budgets face scrutiny. - The Global Impact partnership signals that GEN wants to connect employee networks with external community-impact infrastructure, not just internal programming.

What’s next: - GEN said additional agenda and speaker details are available online. - The conference will take place Nov. 10–11 in Charlotte. - Registration closes Oct. 9, unless seats fill sooner. - Sponsorship discussions are continuing ahead of the event.

The bottom line: - GEN is broadening the conference’s appeal by pairing professional credit with practical sessions and a mission-driven partnership that could deepen attendee value.