Swartz named a 2026 HR Award winner

Updated: Friday, January 9, 2026 12:56 AM

Swartz named a 2026 HR Award winner

Congratulations to Karen Swartz, vice president labor relations and site HR operations, Kaleida Health, who was just one of 10 human resources professionals named to this year's list of HR Award winners by Buffalo Business First.

The individuals in the list, and all HR professionals, keep our organizations running smoothly, our recruiting pipelines full and our employees safe, productive and engaged.

Buffalo Business First will recognize 10 of these local behind-the-scenes superstars through the 2026 HR Awards - previously known as the HR Impact Awards - which highlight the HR employees who have had a clear, positive impact on their company's workforces.

2026's HR Awards winners

Jennifer Cocco, human resources business partner, Encorus Group

Genevieve Dolney, human resources manager, Wendel

Amy Hanavan, global talent acquisition leader, Moog

Jennifer Hasse, director of people operations, Buffalo Toronto Public Media; HR adviser, Resurgence Brewing Co.

Diane Pietraszewski, vice president human resources services and legal counsel, Catholic Health

Erica Reger, chief human resources officer, Child and Family Services

Susan Schubbe, vice president human resources, learning and development, SaveOnSP

Cherie Sugg, chief human resources officer, Catholic Charities of Buffalo

Karen Swartz, vice president labor relations and site HR operations, Kaleida Health

LaTanya Walton-Brown, manager of talent acquisition and engagement, Say Yes Buffalo

Buffalo's HR Awards: Introducing 2026's winners - Buffalo Business First