Dawn Bunting

Background and Education

Dawn’s career in HR and operations bridges business strategy with employee experience and organizational performance. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from Ball State University and a Master’s degree in Higher Education & Student Affairs from Indiana University. 

Dawn is a self‑described “culture junkie” who obsesses over creating workplaces where people feel seen, valued, and empowered to do their best work. She has served as a panelist, workshop facilitator, and SHRM certification instructor and holds both the SHRM‑SCP and SPHR certifications.

Working at SEP

At SEP, Dawn leads the full spectrum of human resources functions, including benefits, payroll, employee relations, compliance, and culture development. She is passionate about building a workplace where employees are empowered and engaged, focusing on bridging business strategy with organizational performance. 

Her role also involves mentorship and leadership development, ensuring that SEP’s culture reflects its commitment to both its people and its clients.

In the Community

Dawn is deeply involved in her professional and local community. In conjunction with her work, she has a passion for community engagement and non‑profit fundraising. As the spouse of a retired Marine, she dedicates significant time to helping veterans adjust to civilian life and supporting military families—especially during transitions and with mental health challenges. 

She is also an active supporter of childhood and breast cancer research, including long‑standing volunteer work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

Dawn serves on the Board of Directors for the Westfield Chamber of Commerce and has volunteered with the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) since 2008. Her involvement includes roles such as:

• SHRM Volunteer since 2008
• Former SHRM Local Chapter President
• Former SHRM State District Director
• SHRM Certification Instructor
• SHRM Event Speaker and Workshop Leader
• St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Volunteer
• Westfield Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Awards/Certifications

• Dawn holds SHRM‑SCP and SPHR certifications
• Named the North Carolina HR Professional of the Year
• Westfield Chamber of Commerce Director of the Year Award

On a Personal Note

Dawn lives in Fishers, Indiana, with her husband, Rad, and their shih-tzu, Wilson. With both daughters grown and married—and now three grandchildren to spoil—Dawn and Rad enjoy traveling and spending as much time with family as possible.