Second Chance Hiring: Embracing Truth and Authenticity to Thrive

Second Chance Hiring:

Embracing Truth and Authenticity to Thrive

Overcoming challenges in the workplace and personal life requires authenticity, resilience, and the courage to face difficult truths. HR professionals play a pivotal role in fostering environments that encourage employees to rise above adversity and embrace their true potential.

"From Ivy League lecture halls to a prison cell and back into purpose — this is my story. A journey of redemption, resilience, and becoming the man I was meant to be" - Ken Miller

Join us for an inspiring in-person session with Ken Miller, whose powerful story of redemption and resilience as a second-chance hire underscores the importance of authenticity in personal and professional growth. This event will empower you with actionable strategies to help employees navigate challenges, make positive decisions, and thrive in today’s dynamic workplace.

Whether you’re a seasoned HR leader or new to the field, this session will equip you with the tools to build a more resilient, authentic, and engaged workforce.

Today's case study will focus on second-chance employees. You will hear commonly used statistics about former criminal offenders; the legal issues surrounding employers’ consideration of criminal history; how to fairly and effectively evaluate risks associated with hiring former offenders; and how to make the business case for hiring former offenders.

Date: June 26, 2025

Location: BP Energy Center (BPEC), 1014 Energy Ct Anchorage, AK  99508 United States

Networking begins at 11:30 AM – Share announcements, opportunities, and insights with fellow professionals.

Program begins at 11:45 AM – ASHRM updates and information.

Speaker presentation at 12:00 PM – Guest Speaker will deliver a one-hour session, followed by closing remarks from the ASHRM President.

Objectives:

1. Identify at least three reasons to hire second chance applicants and understand how these benefit the company.

2. Learn proven strategies to communicate value of hiring persons who have reentered the workforce by knowing how to reduce concern about potential harm to the workplace or its reputation, insurance, and liability.

3. Discuss potential for loyalty and commitment of second chance employees and increasing the talent pool, as well as the positive social impact of hiring persons who have returned to the workplace.

Bio for Ken Miller
Ken Miller has spent over 15 years in the nonprofit sector, leading fundraising efforts, securing millions in grants, and helping organizations achieve sustainable success. As a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and consultant, Ken has trained and mentored countless professionals, shaping the future of philanthropy.
Key areas of expertise:
✅ Fundraising & Grant Consulting – Helping nonprofits secure funding and sustainability
✅ Nonprofit Leadership – Guiding organizations toward growth and impact
✅ AI for Social Good – Leveraging technology to enhance nonprofit operations
✅ Resilience & Transformation – Inspiring leaders to navigate challenges with authenticity
For more, see Ken's LinkedIn profile.  Listen to Ken's story. He tells of his battle with addiction and a period of incarceration, followed by returning to Alaska to rebuild his life.

Continuing education credit (Approved): 1 PDC

ASHRM is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP® / SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.