Meet our HR Sourcerers

Dana Burdenski, PHR, SHRM-CP

HR Manager, BPO Elks of the USA

What's your favorite thing about HR Exchange? I appreciate that it's a platform for communicating with other HR professionals, especially being in a small office with no other HR professionals.

What do you enjoy most about your job? When I started here, I said, "I can help them." I enjoy helping people, doing a good job, and making a difference.

What do you look forward to outside of work? Spending time with my family. Travel. I love a good glass of red wine. :) I enjoy getting involved with organizations and volunteer when I can – I am currently the VP for the Friends of Lane Tech High School parent organization.

Tell us about a recent "big win," either professional or personal. I think it's still a bit of a work in progress, but learning to "let go" sometimes and just "let them" has made a big difference for me.

Felicia K. Harbach

HR Generalist, American Medical Technologists

What's your favorite thing about HR Exchange? How insightful the other perspectives are.

What's your top skill that isn't on your LinkedIn profile? My makeup artistry skills.

Under what circumstances is it OK to put ketchup on a hot dog? Any because I am not from Chicago.

What do you enjoy most about your job? Building community and relationships.

What's your philosophy of life in 10 words or less? Joy is an act of resistance.

What do you look forward to outside of work? Concerts, Makeup, Traveling

Tell us about a recent "big win," either professional or personal. Completing my bachelor's and graduating with Honors!

Megan Kneebone

CFO, Black Bros. Co.

What's your favorite thing about HR Exchange? I love being able to bounce ideas and questions off  of other local HR professionals. Everyone is so open and supportive, and willing to connect further when needed. It's also great that members of the HR Source team often jump in with their expertise to keep conversations productive and engaging.

What do you enjoy most about your job? As CFO, I enjoy the big-picture strategic work - diving into numbers, forecasting, and long-term planning. But adding HR to my role brings a perfect balance by allowing for more personal connection and interaction with our employees. It's truly the best of both worlds.

Tell us about a recent "big win," either professional or personal. The year leading up to my 40th was an amazing one! earned my MBA from the University of Iowa, was honored with a 40 Under 40 in Manufacturing award, and took a dream trip to Iceland. It was a year of growth, recognition, and adventure.

Laura Luna, SPHR

Human Resources Manager, Blistex, Inc.

What's your favorite thing about HR Exchange? The community! Being able to collaborate (and commiserate ;)) with others. It is a wonderful space for new questions, being able to offer advice and guidance, and an opportunity to give and share my knowledge with others. It is a wonderful environment to be in.

Under what circumstances is it OK to put ketchup on a hot dog? Any time one eats a hot dog, of course.

What do you enjoy most about your job? Training, developing, coaching and mentoring. I want to be a part of someone's success story and the change someone needs.

What's your philosophy of life in 10 words or less? Live with purpose, kindness, gratitude, and courage every day.

Tell us about a recent "big win," either professional or personal. Making the choice to go back to school to get my MBA – and doing really well so far. 

Peggy Stefanski, PHR

HR Manager, Medical Murray

What's your favorite thing about HR Exchange?: Comraderie! Despite supporting the entire organization, HR work can feel isolating due to the sensitive and confidential nature of the role. The HR Exchange is a community of peers where I can share questions, exchange ideas and find support. It gives me a sense of connection.

What's your philosophy of life in 10 words or less? Take the Happy. 
(We all face challenges and difficult moments in life. You can "take the happy" by actively managing stress and nurturing your mental and physical health, enjoying life's moments and building positive relationships.)

What do you look forward to outside of work? When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family – my spouse, our grown children, their spouses and our grandson. I love running, reading, and binge watching a good series. I am happiest when I am outdoors. Summer is my favorite season.

What's the best piece of professional advice you have ever received? Prioritize lifelong learning. There is always more to understand. Apply what you learn and connect it to present circumstances. It is never too late to grow.

Ian Stevens

HR Manager, Warrenville Public Library

What's your favorite thing about HR Exchange? The banter and exchange of ideas, suggestions, and comments amongst HR peers. A great way to learn new "stuff" and give back. It is also a great place to network.

Under what circumstances is it OK to put ketchup on a hot dog? Being British I don't follow the Chicago rule. Don't tell my Chicagoan wife (although she knows me and ketchup!!). Of course, I only have veggie dogs, so does that rule apply?

What do you enjoy most about your job? The people and making it right for them. I am a strong believer in work/life balance and have helped improve some policies to help the team. Even a small adjustment can go a long way.

What's your philosophy of life in 10 words or less?: Life is a marathon, not a sprint.

What do you look forward to outside of work? Music. Going to a live concert and forgetting about HR as a favorite band plays your favorite songs.