HARRT at UCLA advances transformative HR strategies
Human Resource Round Table (HARRT) at UCLA connects top HR leaders with university resources and experts to shape the next era of work and management
UCLA IRLE | October 5, 2026
Since 1986, Human Resources Round Table (HARRT) at UCLA has supported a network of senior HR leaders, academic faculty and industry experts to develop collaborative solutions for complex labor issues. As the UCLA Institute for Research on Labor and Employment (IRLE) celebrates its 80th anniversary in fall 2026, we’re highlighting the transformative work of our units, including HARRT, which connects professional leadership with academic expertise to build stronger, more resilient workplaces.
About HARRT at UCLA
HARRT at UCLA is an organization of senior human resources and diversity leaders from top corporate, non-profit and public organizations dedicated to advancing human resources management through partnerships with esteemed academics and thought leaders.
“HARRT is a precious forum for academics, consultants and practitioners of human resources management and human capital to exchange knowledge and best practices,” said Corinne Bendersky, Professor of Management and Organizations at the UCLA Anderson School of Management and Faculty Director of HARRT at UCLA.
HARRT member executives attend customized quarterly Round Table meetings, including an annual two-day retreat and a day of learning, with topics developed from member feedback. The programs combine innovative thinking, strategic focus and practical application, all critical to developing holistic human resources agendas.
HARRT’s affiliation with the UCLA Anderson School of Management, the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs and the UCLA School of Law provides valuable access to leading faculty across disciplines. Through the HARRT partnership, members collaborate with faculty at UCLA and other prestigious universities to develop strategies and initiatives for their organizations.
HARRT at UCLA history and founding
HARRT was founded in 1986 by Archie Kleingartner, a professor of policy studies and management at UCLA. In addition to being the founding dean of the UCLA School of Public Policy and Social Research, Kleingartner served the nine-campus University of California System as Vice President for Academic and Staff Personnel Relations from 1975 to 1983. Kleingartner was also a researcher at the UCLA IRLE, where he published white papers on a variety of employment topics including collective bargaining, the entertainment industry and global affairs.
As UC Vice President, Kleingartner oversaw human resources for over 100,000 faculty, management and staff. After that experience, Kleingartner founded HARRT at UCLA to enhance how management was practiced and taught by fostering close ties between academic experts and human resources executives.
HARRT’s 2026 mission
In 2026, as the IRLE celebrates its 80th anniversary, HARRT also reaches a significant milestone, marking 40 years since its founding. In its 40th year, HARRT is dedicated to fostering a forward-thinking community that influences the future of work and elevates HR leadership regionally and nationally.
While upholding this legacy, HARRT at UCLA has strategically expanded its offerings to provide invaluable education and cutting-edge research opportunities not only to its core executive members, but also to the broader HR community. This year, HARRT continues its key initiatives, hosting its annual leadership summit, day of learning, executive retreat and learning lab series in addition to its CHRO board governance training program.
“As we continue to advance the legacy of HARRT at UCLA, we are proud to uphold the vision established by our founder. We remain committed to fostering a premier community for human resources leaders, bridging academic research with practical, forward-thinking strategies to elevate the practice of human resources to meet the challenges of the future,” said Ellen Sheehan, HARRT’s Executive Director.
The UCLA Institute for Research on Labor and Employment (IRLE) advances labor research and education for workplace justice. Through the work of its units and initiatives, the Institute promotes effective public policy, bridges campus and community, and prepares the next generation of scholars and organizers.
