News
October 15, 2026CEO of Success Map Initiative Named the 2026 SHRM NYS Human Resources Professional of the Year
Trent Griffin-Braaf, founder and CEO of Success Map Initiative, was named the 2026 SHRM New York State Human Resources Professional of the Year at the organization’s annual conference in Buffalo. The award recognizes an HR leader who has significantly advanced the profession through measurable impact, strong leadership and a commitment to creating better workplaces.
Griffin-Braaf’s selection reflects his work to expand access to employment and help employers recognize the value of talent too often overlooked, including people with lived experience in the justice system.
The honor also underscores Griffin-Braaf’s growing influence at the intersection of human resources, workforce development and second-chance hiring. Through Success Map Initiative, he has worked with employers, community partners and job seekers to strengthen hiring practices, build more inclusive talent pipelines and connect individuals with meaningful career opportunities. His recognition by SHRM New York State signals that this work is not only changing lives, but also helping shape a more effective and inclusive future for the HR profession across New York.
