Crystal McFarland
Human Resources Director | Western Governors University (WGU)
Crystal McFarland’s impact at WGU is perhaps best exemplified by her instrumental role in the university’s Future of Work initiative, particularly during the co-location transition. Rather than relying on a traditional top-down approach, she led with empathy and strategy — crafting a thoughtful plan that balanced institutional priorities with employee well-being and engagement. Her leadership during this sensitive period demonstrated a rare ability to navigate complex organizational change while maintaining trust and transparency.
This people-first philosophy extends across all aspects of Crystal’s work. She consistently advocates for progressive policies supporting mental health, work/life balance and career development — often pioneering these initiatives before they become industry standards. The result is a workplace where employees feel genuinely valued and empowered.
Crystal’s influence reaches far beyond WGU’s walls through her dedicated service as president of the Salt Lake SHRM Board. In this role, she implemented strategic improvements that significantly enhanced the organization’s effectiveness and member engagement. Her commitment to giving back is particularly evident in her creation of scholarship opportunities for human resources professionals in career transitions, providing crucial support during vulnerable professional moments.
Whether inside WGU or throughout the broader human resources community, Crystal leads with unwavering integrity and purpose. Her leadership style — marked by transparency, advocacy and ethical decision-making — ensures that people remain at the center of organizational strategy. Through her work, she continually demonstrates that when organizations prioritize human needs alongside business objectives, everyone thrives.
