Editor’s Note: The “Elevate Well-Being” blog series for May focuses on the importance of Human Resources within the University. Our first blog is courtesy Chief Well-Being Officer Anna Fitch Courie.
There’s a common perception a human resources department exists primarily to protect the organization — not its people. And while human resources professionals do play a critical role in upholding policies and ensuring legal and regulatory compliance, that’s only part of the story.
In my experience, HR is made up of quiet professionals doing some of the most deeply human work in an organization. They are the ones who help employees navigate the hard, personal, behind-the-scenes moments that never make it into team meetings or performance reviews — but that define what it means to be part of a community.
- They are the steady voice on the other end of the phone when someone has just received a diagnosis.
- They are the guide through the maze of paperwork after the birth of a child — or the loss of a parent.
- They are the ones who make sure an employee gets connected to the right resources during a mental health crisis.
- They walk people through return-to-work accommodations, family leave, job transitions and career development.
They often do all of this without recognition or fanfare. But their impact is lasting, and it touches every corner of an organization.
The truth is: when human resources is done well, it’s about care. It’s about helping people feel safe, seen and supported — not just as employees, but as whole human beings. The best HR professionals lead with compassion and empathy, even when making hard decisions. They know every policy they write, every conversation they have and every resource they offer affects real people with real lives.
As leaders, we talk often about culture, engagement and wellness — and HR is at the heart of all three. They help shape environments where people can do their best work because they feel like they belong. They play a pivotal role in building systems to support well-being, access and belonging. And they’re often the first to recognize when someone is struggling and the first to respond.
As we reflect on the role of HR this month, I encourage all of us to shift our lens. Look beyond the policies and paperwork, and see the people who stand in the gap every day — helping others manage the complexities of life with grace and strength.
They aren’t just managing processes. They are nurturing people. And that matters deeply.
At Clemson, our HR team does just that — and they’ve built a strong foundation of support for our employees. If you or someone you know is struggling, I encourage you to take a look at the resources available:
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): A confidential resource available to employees and their families, offering counseling, referral and consultation services to help navigate personal or professional challenges.
• Employee Wellness Programs: These initiatives support holistic well-being through Campus Recreation access, Clemson Rural Health services, financial wellness tools and outdoor wellness activities.
• Employee Tuition Assistance Program (ETAP): Offers tuition assistance for eligible employees pursuing professional growth and continuing education.
• Employee Emergency Fund: Provides financial support for employees facing unexpected, unavoidable hardship.
Sometimes, the most courageous thing an employee can do is reach out and ask for help. These resources exist for that very reason. You don’t have to carry hard things alone — and our HR team is here to walk with you through it.