This past January, Kathy A. Wyszynski joined HHMI as an officer in the recently created position of vice president of human resources. In her new role, Wyszynski oversees all aspects of human resources for the Institute, including human resources strategy, recruitment, benefits and compensation, visa administration, performance management, training and development, and employee relations.

Wyszynski is focused on creating a human resources culture that drives exceptional service in innovative ways, enabling the Institute to continue to attract, sustain, and inspire excellence in its employees. She plans to initiate strategic human resources programs designed to advance scientific excellence, foster engagement, and provide collaborative learning opportunities.

“It is important that we share a common set of values characterized by trust, collaboration, communication, and partnership and that we all take pride in our contributions big or small,” says Wyszynski. “We want our people to feel really good about being a part of HHMI’s successes.”

Before coming to HHMI, Wyszynski spent 10 years in human resources leadership roles in the office of the Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives. During her tenure at the House, she developed a Human Capital Strategic Plan, a competency-based performance management system, and a professional development program for staff.

Before joining the House, Wyszynski served in multiple roles, including head of human resources at the Henry M. Jackson Foundation (HJF) for the Advancement of Military Medicine.

“Kathy’s combination of strategic human resources leadership experience and time spent working in a laboratory environment make her an ideal addition to the management team,” says Cheryl Moore, HHMI’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. “I’m very pleased to have her join us as we embark on new initiatives to support HHMI employees.”

Looking back on her time spent with HJF and in public service, says Wyszynksi, it became clear that one of her key motivators was doing work that matters. “Joining HHMI as vice president of human resources is an opportunity to leverage my previous experience and apply my skills and talents in new ways,” she says. “To help drive the Institute’s extraordinary mission of empowering and supporting the world’s finest scientists and educators is an exciting prospect for me. Coming to HHMI was an easy decision.”

Photo: James Kegley