Empower HR Award
Winner
Patience Ferguson
Chief HR Officer, Ramsey County
Throughout her career, Patience Ferguson has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to strengthening the HR profession through mentorship, advocacy, and service. She believes that investing early in people strengthens the entire HR ecosystem, so naturally, mentorship and talent development are central to her leadership style. In fact, what set her apart in the judges’ eyes was “the lasting impact of her mentorship,” as many of her mentees now serve in HR leadership roles. “Her investment in early HR careers continues to elevate the entire HR community,” the judges wrote.
Ferguson’s advocacy both for individuals and for HR as a whole has similarly impacted the broader HR community. While at the City of Minneapolis, she collaborated with Project for Pride in Living on an inclusive program that expanded access to public-sector HR careers for people historically excluded from these opportunities, directly impacting her community and the HR profession. Beyond this work, Ferguson advocates for HR itself to be a strategic, ethical, and values-driven partner. She has been recognized by peers and organizations for her advocacy and support for colleagues and for her contributions as an advocate for equitable, community-centered leadership.
In addition to her work as chief HR officer, she serves on numerous boards and committees within her community, including the YMCA of the North’s Values in Action Committee and People and Culture Committee. As co-chair of the Evanta Leadership Summit, she helped bring together senior HR leaders to advance the profession. Her career reflects her desire to empower others and her belief that leadership, representation, and lived experience matter.
Finalists
Leah Henrikson
Director of HR, Securian Financial
As a career recruiter, Leah Henrikson is committed to empowering and developing others. She is a fierce advocate for diversity and inclusion both at work and within the community, serving on Securian Financial’s Mental Health and Disability associate resource group and the board of directors for local nonprofit Lifeworks. Henrikson also led efforts to pass the Vivian Act, which was named after her daughter who was born with congenital cytomegalovirus. The act, which was passed in 2021, ultimately led the state to include the virus in newborn screening panels.
Kyle Rich
HR Business Partner, Multifamily Operations, Continental Properties
Kyle Rich’s unwavering commitment to people and organizational excellence makes him a standout leader. Since joining Continental Properties, he has played a pivotal role in revitalizing culture across the region by fostering stronger connection. His communication skills ensure decision-makers stay aligned and accountable. Rich brings humor, curiosity, discipline, and positive energy to his work at Continental, balancing professionalism with genuine warmth.
Amanda Ruch
HR Generalist, Thought Logic Consulting
Amanda Ruch’s natural and engaging leadership and facilitation skills make her an incredible asset at Thought Logic Consulting. She specializes in optimizing processes, driving HR technology transformations, and aligning HR programs with business goals so workplaces thrive. She also leads the company’s internship program, mentors HR colleagues, and regularly meets with industry professionals to build upon her expertise. Ruch is the Mentor Program lead for the Twin Cities Society for Human Resource Management (TCSHRM) and the 2025 recipient of its Spirit of Community Award.