HR Matters: Meet Karen Harrell and Alicia Norman of Porter-Leath

Once a month, Welcome to Memphis hosts HR Matters, an engaging in-person event designed to tackle all things HR-related. This event is perfect for seasoned HR hospitality professionals and those just starting out in the field! This month we are excited to discuss an issue that affects so many hospitality and tourism workers: childcare. 

Our discussion leaders, Karen Harrell and Alicia Norman of Porter-Leath, will facilitate an insightful conversation covering a variety of important topics such as early childhood education, industry challenges, Porter-Leath’s impact, and ways to connect with quality childcare in Shelby County. 

For over 170 years, Porter-Leath has been a primary resource for children and families in the Mid-South. By focusing on the essential building blocks of healthy development, Porter-Leath helps build stronger communities.

Karen Harrell started out at Porter-Leath as a Case Manager in 1996 and has progressed to her current role as Sr. Vice President of Early Childhood Services. Her reputation for executing high-quality programming is backed by over 25 years of early childhood/preschool experience and management. Karen has been instrumental in leading the implementation of evidence and research-based programs for preschool and home visitation, expanding preschool services, and developing systems that have resulted in positive outcomes for children and families.

Alicia Norman is the Executive Director of NEXT Memphis, an innovative Shared Services Model. She has been in early childhood education for over 25 years. Her life’s mission is to help create high-quality early care providers and

systems that prepare students academically, socially, and emotionally for success today and tomorrow. Under her leadership, NEXT Memphis supports over 36 childcare centers and family day homes to increase their business viability, enhance quality of education, and provide comprehensive wrap-around support for more than 1,500 students and their families. 

If you are an HR hospitality professional, we hope you will join us for HR Matters on Thursday, January 16, 2025 from 4:30 - 6:30 pm at the Church Health Center Community Room in Crosstown Concourse. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow. Click this link to register.