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Contains 18 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 02/02/2026 at 3:30 PM (EST)
This class will start on January 27, 2026 and end on April 7, 2026
Welcome!
We are excited to announce the launching of the New Public Sector HR Essentials course.
Thank you for your course registration. We are so excited you have looked to PSHRA® to help you grow in your career.
Whether you want to sharpen your skills, transitioning to public sector, want a refresher, this is the place you belong.
With this change, the PSHRA-CP certification component will operate separately with a brand-new proctored exam and certification process. The course, exam, and certification will no longer be packaged together. There will be separate fee to take the CP Exam and become certified.
The new course includes:
- Condensed 10-week format
- Flexible schedule and learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere and 24/7
- Public Sector Focused – Tailored for you
- Delivered online and asynchronously
- 4 Live Zoom Course Check-ins and 1 hour in length
- Get Personalized feedback and support
- Course Dashboard contains everything you need – no third-party textbook to buy.
All your course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook to buy).
Don’t hesitate to contact us:
- PSHRA – Debbie Tankersely-Snook, Associate Director, Member Programs, Membership - meetings@pshra.org
Making public sector work better®.
PSHRA’s Public Sector HR Essentials Certificate Course Syllabus
Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible. We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.
Course Material (All you need is on your dashboard)
- PSHRE Workbook (PDF and Word Versions)
- Public Sector HR Essentials Lessons Summary
- HR20/20 Report
Meetings and Discussions:
- Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
- Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."
Course Design:
The course spans ten weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions. You will receive details about the dates, times, and locations of cohort sessions.
Time Commitment:
Plan for 1 hours for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for cohort sessions. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the cohort sessions to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).
Course Cohort Session Schedule (subject to change):
- Start Date: 1/27/2025
- Completion Date: 4/7/2026
- Cohort Session 1: 2/2/2026 - 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 2: 2/23/2026 - 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 3: 3/23/2026 - 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 4: 4/6/2026 - 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm ET
Course Content:
Week 1 - Introduction
Week 2 - Lesson 1: Public Sector Basics
Week 3 - Lesson 2: Recruitment
Cohort Session 1: Public Sector HR Basics & Recruitment
Week 4 - Lesson 3: Selection
Week 5 - Lesson 4: Classification and Compensation
Cohort Session 2: Selection, Classification & Compensation
Week 6 - Lesson 5: Benefits
Week 7 - Lesson 6: Labor and Employee Relations
Cohort Session 3: Benefits and Labor Management Relations
Week 8 - Lesson 7: Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity
Week 9 - Lesson 8: Organizational Development
Cohort Session 4: Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity, Organization and Final
Week 10 - Lesson 9: Course Summary
Certificate of Attendance:
You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.
Cancellation Policy:
Professional Development Cancelation Policy
Making public sector work better®.
Jacqueline P. Little, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, IPMA-SCP
Chief HR Officer
Island Institute
Ms. Little is a proud Maine native who is passionate about HR and the positive impact HR can have on an organization. She earned a Master's degree in Human Resource Leadership, has over two decades of public sector HR experience and holds the SHRM-SCP, SPHR, PSHRA-SCP and GPHR certifications. Jackie shares her experience, perspective and insight at various local, national and international conferences. In her spare time, she can be found baking cheesecakes, exploring the Maine coast or traveling with her family.
Making public sector work better™.
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Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 01/29/2026 at 1:00 PM (EST)
Kick Start Your PSHRA Certification Journey
Join our experts from the Certification Advisory Board on January 29th at 1:00 PM ET for an engaging discussion on how to become PSHRA Certified! This is your chance to learn about PSHRA’s recently updated certification processes, exams and more. Don’t miss this chance gain the tools kick start your own personal journey.
You will learn:
- What’s new about the certification process?
- How you can qualify.
- How to start your certification journey.
- What’s new about the recertification process?
Moderator:
Melanie Ault, PSHRA-SCP, PSHRA Executive Council, PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Chair, DDA Human Resources Inc., Employee Relations Senior Advisor, Carver County, MN
Panelists:
- Kathy Baker, PSHRA-SCP, PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Member, HR Director, City of Columbia, MD
- Emma House, PSHRA-SCP, PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Member, President-Elect, Washington State Chapter, Director of HR, City of Oak Harbor, WA
- David Morgan, MSHRM, PSHRA-SCP, NCPM, PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Member, Human Resources Professional, Organizational Developer, Certified Civil Mediator, Oklahoma City, OK
PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.
Making public sector work better™.Melanie Ault, PSHRA-SCP (Moderator)
PSHRA Executive Council, PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Chair, DDA Human Resources Inc., Employee Relations Senior Advisor,
Carver County, MN
Melanie Ault brings a depth of knowledge and experience to the HR Technical Assistance Program, where she supports HR Directors and County Administrators on behalf of the Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC). As the employee relations senior advisor for Carver County, Minn., she combines her extensive public sector background—spanning state, regional, city, and county levels—with a strong academic foundation in public administration (JD, MAPA, CAPA, and DPA work).
Kathy Baker, PSHRA-SCP
SHRA Certification Advisory Board Member, HR Director
City of Columbia, MD
Kathy Baker serves as the Human Resources Director for the City of Columbia, Missouri. She has been a member of the Public Sector HR Association (PSHRA) since 2001 and has dedicated her entire professional career to public service.
Kathy has more than 30 years of experience in municipal government, including 29 years with the City of Columbia and two years with the City of Marshall, Missouri. She has advanced through the ranks in a full-service city, gaining extensive experience in executive leadership, operations, classification and compensation, employee relations, recruitment and retention, labor relations, strategic planning, wellness, and training. Throughout her public service career, she has been committed to teamwork and to fostering a learning culture grounded in honesty, trust, and the development and implementation of effective human resources practices.
Education and Professional Certifications
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, Columbia College
- PSHRA Senior Certified Professional (PSHRA-SCP)
- Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
- SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP)
Professional Affiliations and Service
- Human Resources Association of Central Missouri — Served in various leadership roles
- Job Point Business Advisory Council — Member
- Missouri Public Employer Labor Relations Association (MOPELRA) - Member
- National Public Employer Labor Relations Association (NPELRA) – Member
- PSHRA — Certification Advisory Board Member; Former Fellowship Committee Member
- Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) — Member
Emma House, PSHRA-SCP
PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Member, President-Elect, Washington State Chapter, Director of HR,
City of Oak Harbor, WA
Emma House is the PSHRA Washington State Chapter President-Elect and a seasoned Human Resources executive with over two decades of experience leading innovative people strategies across healthcare, education, private industry, and local government. As Director of Human Resources for the City of Oak Harbor, Washington, she oversees all HR operations—including labor relations, workforce planning, performance management, and employee engagement.
Emma is nationally recognized for her expertise in labor relations, HR technology implementation, and organizational development. She has successfully led multiple HRIS deployments, Lean/Kaizen process improvements, and collective bargaining negotiations, achieving measurable results in efficiency, cost savings, and employee satisfaction.
A certified senior professional with credentials from SHRM, PSHRA, CPHR BC & Yukon, and NPELRA, Emma is also a published author in the National Public Employers Labor Relations Association Journal for her work on collective bargaining and the use of comparable data. She is a sought-after speaker and facilitator known for her collaborative leadership style, practical insights, and passion for building healthy, high-performing workplaces.
Emma earned her PSHRA certification in 2014, and most recently participated on the PSHA Certification Advisory Board.
David Morgan, MSHRM, PSHRA-SCP, NCPM
PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Member, Human Resources Professional, Organizational Developer, Certified Civil Mediator
Edmond, Oklahoma
David is a resident of Edmond, Oklahoma and currently serves as Vice President of the Oklahoma Chapter of PSHRA. He currently serves PSHRA at the national level as a member of the Veterans Committee and Certification Advisory Board. He has been a member of PSHRA since 2021.
He is a vision and solutions-driven human resource executive specializing in full-service human resource services such as talent retention and recruiting, employee relations, organizational operations, executive leadership, strategic planning, data management, budgeting, and employee compensation plans. He enjoys communicating ideas to others and bringing functional groups together for a common goal. He is dedicated to professionalism and producing measurable results. His most recent public sector experience was serving as the Director of Human Resources & Open Records for the Office of the Oklahoma State Treasurer.
He holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Management, Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness, and Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He is an Oklahoma Supreme Court and nationally certified Civil Mediator, a Master Training Specialist, PSHRA Senior Certified Professional, and is a 20-year veteran of the U.S. Navy.
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Contains 13 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 01/27/2026 at 2:15 PM (EST)
This class will start on January 27, 2026 and end on March 6, 2026
Syllabus: Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Certificate Program
Start Date: January 27, 2026
End Date: March 6, 2026
Instructor: Isabel Godina-Vergara
PSHRA Contact: Debbie Tankersely-Snook
Welcome:
Welcome to PSHRA's Strategies for Public Sector Leadership. This course will equip you with the necessary tools to shift from a transactional to a strategic role in Public Sector HR by using a competency framework. Your role has evolved beyond merely transactional tasks. Today's HR department in the public sector is pivotal to the agency's success. It involves teaching team building, coaching, conflict resolution, consensus-building, fostering a risk-taking culture, enhancing communication, building trust, and more.
Course Outcomes:
This comprehensive leadership course is designed for mid- to senior-level public sector HR leaders, providing a solid foundation for success.
To achieve this, the course focuses on the following outcomes:
- Assess the impact of HR and human capital management in the public sector and justify HR programs in the public sector.
- Design programs that align with specific competencies within the PSHRA Competency Model, covering three major modules: Leader, Business Partner, and Change Agent.
- Evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses regarding these competencies and create a plan for your individual professional development as an HR professional using the PSHRA Competency Model.
- Plan professional development in accordance with your personal competencies.
You will finish this course with:
- A solid strategic foundation for success.
- A professional development plan.
Certificate of Attendance:
You will earn a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of the course.
Course Design:
The course spans six weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions. You will receive details about the dates, times, and locations of cohort sessions.
Time Commitment:
Plan for 90 minutes for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for cohort sessions. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the cohort sessions to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans.
Meetings and Discussions:
- Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
- Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."
Online Cohort Schedule (subject to change):
- Cohort #1 – Coming Soon!
- Cohort #2 – Coming Soon!
- Cohort #3 - Coming Soon!
- Cohort #4 - Coming Soon!
Course Schedule:
Week 1:
Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 1: Introduction
Week 2:
Cohort Session (virtual) - Session 1: Introduction
Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 2: The Role of the HR Leader
Week 3:
No Cohort Session
Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 3: The Role of an HR Business Partner
Week 4:
Cohort Session (virtual) - Session 2: The Role of the HR Leader
- Negotiation: the cohort participants will perform a mock negotiation of a contract or provisions of a rule and have sides. This activity will allow participants to see how people react in these situations and practice skills used to defuse tension
- Emotional Quotient/Intelligence: cohort participants will develop a proposed response modeling EQ based on a stressful leadership/communication scenario
Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 4: The Role of the Change Agent
Week 5:
Cohort Session (virtual) - Session 3: The Role of an HR Business Partner
- Partnered practice scenario performs as a trusted coach or consultant on a challenging people issue such as performance, DEIA, risk management, or leadership coaching (developing) or advising (consulting)
- Partners work on conducting an HR needs analysis
Online Lesson (self-paced) - Lesson 5: Summary
Week 6:
Cohort Session (in-person or virtual) - Session 4: The Role of the Change Agent & Summary
Course Workbook:
The course includes a workbook. You'll use the workbook throughout the course to reflect on what you're learning, record ideas, plan for future personal development, and plan activities for your agency. There are two versions:
- a PDF version - if you'd like to print it and write your answers and ideas and
- an MS Word version - if you'd prefer to work electronically.
The files have the same content - just differences in page layout. You will use the workbook while taking the online lessons and while attending the cohort sessions.
The workbook is available by selecting the Course Materials tab and then Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Workbook.
Making public sector work better™.
Isabel Godina-Vergara, PSHRA-SCP
Human Resources Manager
City of Nampa, ID
Isabel serves as the Human Resources Manager for the City of Nampa, Idaho, where she has dedicated over 19 years of her professional life. Isabel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration and Human Resources Management, as well as the esteemed PSHRA-SCP certification.
As HR Manager, Isabel is responsible for the full spectrum of HR operations—from Recruiting and Employee Relations to Strategic Planning and Team Development. Isabel is passionate about training; she regularly facilitates programs for her internal customers, including DISC training and various communication and leadership workshops.
Dedicated to continuous learning, she is always pursuing additional educational opportunities, which she then translates into valuable knowledge for her peers. She recently started a small business and plans to launch a nonprofit to continue sharing her HR expertise with the wider community.
She has been an active, dedicated member of PSHRA since 2007.
When she manages to step away from the world of HR, Isabel loves enjoying Idaho's scenic views while camping, hiking, off-roading, and paddleboarding, exploring further out. She has also recently developed a love for snorkeling.
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Contains 18 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 01/27/2026 at 11:00 AM (EST)
This class will start on January 13, 2026 and end on March 24, 2026
Welcome!
We are excited to announce the launching of the New Public Sector HR Essentials course.
Thank you for your course registration. We are so excited you have looked to PSHRA® to help you grow in your career.
Whether you want to sharpen your skills, transitioning to public sector, want a refresher, this is the place you belong.
With this change, the PSHRA-CP certification component will operate separately with a brand-new proctored exam and certification process. The course, exam, and certification will no longer be packaged together. There will be separate fee to take the CP Exam and become certified.
The new course includes:
- Condensed 10-week format
- Flexible schedule and learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere and 24/7
- Public Sector Focused – Tailored for you
- Delivered online and asynchronously
- 4 Live Zoom Course Check-ins and 1 hour in length
- Get Personalized feedback and support
- Course Dashboard contains everything you need – no third-party textbook to buy.
All your course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook to buy).
Don’t hesitate to contact us:
- PSHRA – Debbie Tankersely-Snook, Associate Director, Member Programs, Membership - meetings@pshra.org
Making public sector work better®.
PSHRA’s Public Sector HR Essentials Certificate Course Syllabus
Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible. We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.
Course Material (All you need is on your dashboard)
- PSHRE Workbook (PDF and Word Versions)
- Public Sector HR Essentials Lessons Summary
- HR20/20 Report
Meetings and Discussions:
- Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
- Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."
Course Design:
The course spans ten weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions. You will receive details about the dates, times, and locations of cohort sessions.
Time Commitment:
Plan for 1 hours for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for cohort sessions. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the cohort sessions to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).
Course Cohort Session Schedule (subject to change):
- Start Date: 1/13/2025
- Completion Date: 3/24/2026
- Cohort Session 1: 1/27/2026 - 11:00 - 12:30 pm ET
- Cohort Session 2: 2/11/2026 - 11:00 - 12:30 pm ET
- Cohort Session 3: 3/3/2026 - 11:00 - 12:30 pm ET
- Cohort Session 4: 3/17/2026 - 11:00 - 12:30 pm ET
Course Content:
Week 1 - Introduction
Week 2 - Lesson 1: Public Sector Basics
Week 3 - Lesson 2: Recruitment
Cohort Session 1: Public Sector HR Basics & Recruitment
Week 4 - Lesson 3: Selection
Week 5 - Lesson 4: Classification and Compensation
Cohort Session 2: Selection, Classification & Compensation
Week 6 - Lesson 5: Benefits
Week 7 - Lesson 6: Labor and Employee Relations
Cohort Session 3: Benefits and Labor Management Relations
Week 8 - Lesson 7: Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity
Week 9 - Lesson 8: Organizational Development
Cohort Session 4: Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity, Organization and Final
Week 10 - Lesson 9: Course Summary
Certificate of Attendance:
You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.
Cancellation Policy:
Professional Development Cancelation Policy
Making public sector work better®.
Dr. Bernadette Costello
Managing Partner
BCC Consulting
Bernadette Costello is the Managing Partner for BCC Consulting. The foundation of her coaching and consulting practice is “You are Exactly Where You Are Supposed To Be.” Affirming where you are is the first step in any transformation. Transformation is like looking into a labyrinth: a path for discovery, understanding & clarity. One way in & one way out-there are no dead ends. That symbolism expresses Bernadette’s approach to coaching, consulting, learning and the sacred space created with clients to support their journey. Bernadette has over 25 years of talent development, coaching, consulting, and leadership experience in human resources and talent development in the public, non-profit, and higher education sectors. She is also an adjunct faculty member in the George Mason University’s School of Business and Schar School of Policy and Government. Sheis certified in several assessment tools which include Myers Briggs, DiSC, EQi,and Appreciation in the WorkplaceMBA. Bernadette received a Bachelor of Social Work from SIUE, a Masters inPublic Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hilland a doctorate in Higher Education fromGeorge Mason University. She is an PCC certified coach, an Energy LeadershipIndex Master Practitioner and holds a SHRM-SCP certification.
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Contains 6 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 01/22/2026 at 2:30 PM (EST)
This class will start on January 22, 2026 and end on February 5, 2026
Welcome!
Thank you for your Power Learning Series registration. We are so excited you have looked to PSHRA® to help you grow in your career.
The Power Learning Series offers you a new way to grow your skills without the time commitment of a full course.
In this course, learners will explore the full investigation process from intake to reporting, with a focus on balancing legal, ethical, and organizational considerations. Participants will gain tools to plan, conduct, and document investigations with fairness, consistency, and clarity. The content will be delivered through a realistic and engaging case study.
Learners will gain the skills to conduct fair and effective workplace investigations. The course will be delivered over three-weeks with one-hour weekly online meetings.
Recertification Points: PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5
Don’t hesitate to contact us - PSHRA – Debbie Tankersely-Snook, Associate Director, Member Programs, Membership - meetings@pshra.org.
Making public sector work better®.
Course Syllabus
Ethics and policy form the foundation of responsible public-sector HR practice. This course examines the ethical principles, governance structures, and policy expectations that shape HR decision-making across government. Learners will explore contemporary challenges, ethical dilemmas, accountability mechanisms, and best-practice frameworks that support fair, transparent, and integrity-driven HR operations.
Overview
Through a mix of instruction, applied frameworks, case studies, and guided analysis, participants will strengthen their ability to interpret policy, assess ethical risks, navigate conflicting pressures, and promote cultures rooted in trust and public service values.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Explain core ethical principles and theories and apply them to HR and public-sector decision-making.
- Identify ethical risks and integrity challenges within HR processes, including recruitment, promotion, performance management, and policy administration.
- Interpret and apply codes of ethics and standards of conduct within a public-sector HR context.
- Strengthen organizational ethical culture using HR tools related to hiring, onboarding, leadership development, and accountability.
- Use structured ethical decision-making frameworks to analyze and respond to complex dilemmas.
- Recognize conflicts of interest, policy inconsistencies, and areas of vulnerability within HR systems and recommend corrective steps.
- Promote transparency, fairness, and good governance in HR operations and organizational leadership.
- Effectively advise leaders on ethical considerations, policy implications, and risk mitigation strategies.
Program Components
Module 1 — Foundations of Ethics in Public Sector HR
Topics Covered
- Why ethics matter in government HR
- Major ethical theories and practical applications
- Public-service values and professional responsibility
- HR as steward, strategist, and guardian of trust
Module 2 — Professional Standards & Codes of Conduct
Topics Covered
- Purpose and structure of HR codes of ethics
- Core principles: fairness, impartiality, confidentiality, transparency
- Ethical leadership behaviors and modeling expectations
- Documentation and rationale in ethical decision-making
Module 3 — Ethical Risks & Integrity Challenges in HR
Topics Covered
- Risks in hiring, promotion, and classification decisions
- Favoritism, undue influence, and political pressure
- Conflicts of interest and divided loyalties
- Misuse of authority and breaches of trust
- Systems weaknesses that enable misconduct
- Subtle or “quiet” forms of unethical behavior
Module 4 — Building Ethical Culture & Governance Structures
Topics Covered
- HR’s role in shaping organizational culture
- Governance mechanisms and internal controls
- Transparency practices and reporting pathways
- Whistleblowing, psychological safety, and anti-retaliation norms
- Leadership impact on ethical climates
Module 5 — Ethical Decision-Making Frameworks (Applied Practice)
Topics Covered
- Structured reasoning processes
- Assessing stakeholders, principles, and consequences
- Applying policies and values to real situations
- Navigating ambiguity and competing obligations
- Hands-on scenario walkthroughs
- Developing confidence in ethical judgment
Module 6 — Policy, Accountability & Public Trust
Topics Covered
- Designing clear, enforceable HR policy
- Aligning policy with ethical expectations
- Accountability structures and compliance practices
- Managing gray areas and policy gaps
- The relationship between ethical HR and public confidence
The course will be delivered over three-weeks with 3 one-hour weekly online meetings.
Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible. We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.
All your course materials will be found on your course dashboard.
Course Design:
The course will be delivered over three-weeks with three one-hour sessions per week. You will receive details about the dates, times, and the URL for your course meetings
Time Commitment:
Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).
Meetings and Discussions:
- Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
- Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."
Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):
- Start Date: 1/22/2026
- Completion Date: 2/5/2026
- Meeting 1: 1/14/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
- Meeting 2: 1/21/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
- Meeting 3: 1/28/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
Certificate of Attendance: You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.
Cancellation Policy: Professional Development Cancelation Policy
Recertification Points: PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5
Making public sector work better®.
Patrick Henley, DBA, SPHR, SHRM-SCP
Dr. Patrick Henley is the Director of Human Resources & Risk Management at Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority, where he has led transformative efforts in leadership development, risk strategy, and organizational planning. With over 22 years of HR leadership experience, Patrick is known for blending strategic insight with a people-first approach. He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration, an MBA, and a BS in Psychology, and is certified as both an SPHR and SHRM-SCP. Patrick is also an award-winning HR professional, recognized for excellence in Learning & Development, Total Rewards, and Diversity & Inclusion. A passionate educator, he teaches HR and Business courses at the college level and frequently speaks at industry conferences. His work focuses on aligning people strategy with business outcomes through continuous improvement and leadership excellence.
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Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 01/22/2026 at 1:00 PM (EST)
Creating a Culture of Respect
Please join us on January 22nd at 1:00 pm ET for a dynamic discussion on how to create a work culture of respect.
Culture is determined by the way employees interact and communicate with each other. How people communicate will either empower or hinder your organization’s success. Unfortunately, the worst behaviors tolerated within an organization become culture norms. Creating a culture of respect requires clarity around behavioral expectations and holding people accountable when conduct does not meet expectations. Posting values on the company wall or crafting policies is not enough and fails to create buy-ins.
Build a clear plan for creating clarity around expected behaviors and for securing employee buy-in to uphold expectations. Train your leaders and employees to reframe emotionally charged situations, even when opinions differ or personalities clash. Equip your team with the skills to hold accountable conversations when behaviors cross the line from respect to disrespect. Create a workplace culture where respect is not just a buzzword, but a lived reality that boosts morale, productivity, and overall success.
Learn to:
- Create clarity around behavioral expectations
- Effectively address behaviors that strain working relationships and erode culture
- Increase accountability and ownership
- Build more positive and productive working relationships
- De-escalate conflict and create safety at times when opinions differ
- Discover action steps to create a culture of respect and accountability
Speaker: Lorie Reichel-Howe, Founder, Conversations in the Workplace
PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.
Making public sector work better®.
Lorie Reichel- Howe
Founder, Conversations in the Workplace
Conversations in the Workplace
Lorie Reichel-Howe is founder of Conversations in the Workplace. She equips managers, teams, and business professionals to have “Safe Conversations” – transformative dialogue that uncovers hidden workplace issues. Whether addressing challenging team dynamics, mismanaged expectations, cultural insensitivity, or good old-fashioned bad behavior, “Safe Conversations” foster greater innovation, inclusion, and collaboration within organizations.
With over 20 years of experience in leadership development and relationship management, Lorie is passionate about equipping leaders with the skills to create and maintain a culture of respect and accountability.
Lorie is a professional mediator and leadership communication coach. She has supported organizations such as Pinterest, SYGMA, SHRM, PIHRA, HR.com, Women in Technology International, Los Angeles Women’s Leadership Conference, Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles, Santa Clara Superior Court, San Jose State University, Santa Clara County Office of Education and many more.
Learn more about Lorie’s impact at www.ConversationsInTheWorkplace.com
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Contains 18 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 01/16/2026 at 1:00 PM (EST)
This class will start on December 16, 2025 and end on February 24, 2025
Welcome!
We are excited to announce the launching of the New Public Sector HR Essentials course.
Thank you for your course registration. We are so excited you have looked to PSHRA® to help you grow in your career.
Whether you want to sharpen your skills, transitioning to public sector, want a refresher, this is the place you belong.
With this change, the PSHRA-CP certification component will operate separately with a brand-new proctored exam and certification process. The course, exam, and certification will no longer be packaged together. There will be separate fee to take the CP Exam and become certified.
The new course includes:
- Condensed 10-week format
- Flexible schedule and learn at your own pace, anytime, anywhere and 24/7
- Public Sector Focused – Tailored for you
- Delivered online and asynchronously
- 4 Live Zoom Course Check-ins and 1 hour in length
- Get Personalized feedback and support
- Course Dashboard contains everything you need – no third-party textbook to buy.
All your course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook to buy).
Don’t hesitate to contact us:
- PSHRA – Debbie Tankersely-Snook, Associate Director, Member Programs, Membership - meetings@pshra.org
Making public sector work better®.
PSHRA’s Public Sector HR Essentials Certificate Course Syllabus
Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible. We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.
Course Material (All you need is on your dashboard)
- PSHRE Workbook (PDF and Word Versions)
- Public Sector HR Essentials Lessons Summary
- HR20/20 Report
- Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access your meetings through your course "Content Tab."
- Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."
Course Design:
The course spans ten weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions. You will receive details about the dates, times, and locations of cohort sessions.
Time Commitment:
Plan for 1 hours for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for cohort sessions. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the cohort sessions to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).
Course Cohort Session Schedule (subject to change):
- Start Date: 12/16/2025
- Completion Date: 2/24/2026
- Cohort Session 1: 12/19/2025 - 1:00 - 2:30 pm ET
- Cohort Session 2: 1/16/2025 - 1:00 - 2:30 pm ET
- Cohort Session 3: 1/30/2025 - 1:00 - 2:30 pm ET
- Cohort Session 4: 2/13/2025 - 1:00 - 2:30 pm ET
Course Content:
Week 1 - Introduction
Week 2 - Lesson 1: Public Sector Basics
Week 3 - Lesson 2: Recruitment
Cohort Session 1: Public Sector HR Basics & Recruitment
Week 4 - Lesson 3: Selection
Week 5 - Lesson 4: Classification and Compensation
Cohort Session 2: Selection, Classification & Compensation
Week 6 - Lesson 5: Benefits
Week 7 - Lesson 6: Labor and Employee Relations
Cohort Session 3: Benefits and Labor Management Relations
Week 8 - Lesson 7: Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity
Week 9 - Lesson 8: Organizational Development
Cohort Session 4: Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity, Organization and Final
Week 10 - Lesson 9: Course Summary
Certificate of Attendance:
You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.
Cancellation Policy:
Professional Development Cancelation Policy
Making public sector work better®.
Isabel Godina-Vergara, PSHRA-SCP
Human Resources Manager
City of Nampa, ID
Isabel serves as the Human Resources Manager for the City of Nampa, Idaho, where she has dedicated over 19 years of her professional life. Isabel holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration and Human Resources Management, as well as the esteemed PSHRA-SCP certification.
As HR Manager, Isabel is responsible for the full spectrum of HR operations—from Recruiting and Employee Relations to Strategic Planning and Team Development. Isabel is passionate about training; she regularly facilitates programs for her internal customers, including DISC training and various communication and leadership workshops.
Dedicated to continuous learning, she is always pursuing additional educational opportunities, which she then translates into valuable knowledge for her peers. She recently started a small business and plans to launch a nonprofit to continue sharing her HR expertise with the wider community.
She has been an active, dedicated member of PSHRA since 2007.
When she manages to step away from the world of HR, Isabel loves enjoying Idaho's scenic views while camping, hiking, off-roading, and paddleboarding, exploring further out. She has also recently developed a love for snorkeling.
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Contains 6 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 01/16/2026 at 12:00 PM (EST)
This class will start on January 16, 2026 and end on January 30, 2026
Welcome!
Thank you for your Power Learning Series registration. We are so excited you have looked to PSHRA® to help you grow in your career.
The Power Learning Series offers you a new way to grow your skills without the time commitment of a full course.
In this course learners will explore the foundational components of public sector compensation: compensation elements and strategy, labor market assessment, and internal equity. Appropriate and fair compensation directly impacts employee attraction, retention, motivation, and productivity. A well-structured compensation system that aligns with the organization’s goals helps maintain fiscal responsibility and promotes fair and equitable pay.
The course will be delivered over 3 weeks with one-hour weekly online meetings.
Recertification Points: PSHRA-5 and HRCI-Coming Soon!
Don’t hesitate to contact us - PSHRA – Debbie Tankersely-Snook, Associate Director, Member Programs, Membership - meetings@pshra.org.
Making public sector work better®.
Course Syllabus
Course Description
Learners will explore the foundational components of public sector compensation: compensation elements and strategy, labor market assessment, and internal equity. Appropriate and fair compensation directly impacts employee attraction, retention, motivation, and productivity. A well-structured compensation system that aligns with the organization’s goals helps maintain fiscal responsibility and promotes fair and equitable pay.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- explain key differences between public and private sector compensation systems
- understand basic public sector pay and classification structures
- apply foundational compensation principles
Student Expectations:
- Live attendance and full engagement at all 3 Zoom sessions.
- Respond to each of the instructor’s discussion posts within 3 days.
- Complete weekly readings and assignments.
- Contact instructor if questions arise, jlittle1104@gmail.com.
Instructor Expectations:
- Provide weekly assignments and regular discussion posts for student engagement and learning.
- Prepare for and present course content for live Zoom sessions.
- Respond to any student email inquiries within 3 days.
Week One: Foundations of Public Sector Compensation
- Total compensation
- Public sector compensation strategy
- Private and public sector differences
Week Two: Labor Market Assessment
- Labor markets
- Salary data sources
- Benchmarking jobs
- Compensation structure
- External equity
Week Three: Internal Equity and Fair Compensation
- Internal equity
- Pay increases
- Compensation influences
Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible. We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.
All your course materials will be found on your course dashboard.
Course Design:
The course will be delivered over three weeks with three one-hour sessions per week.
Time Commitment:
Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).
Meetings and Discussions:
- Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
- Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."
Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):
- Start Date: 11/3/2025
- Completion Date:11/19/2025
- Meeting 1: 1/16/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
- Meeting 1: 1/23/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
- Meeting 3: 1/30/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
Certificate of Attendance: You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.
Cancellation Policy: Professional Development Cancelation Policy
Recertification Points: PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5
Making public sector work better®.
Jacqueline P. Little, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, IPMA-SCP
Chief HR Officer
Island Institute
Ms. Little is a proud Maine native who is passionate about HR and the positive impact HR can have on an organization. She earned a Master's degree in Human Resource Leadership, has over two decades of public sector HR experience and holds the SHRM-SCP, SPHR, PSHRA-SCP and GPHR certifications. Jackie shares her experience, perspective and insight at various local, national and international conferences. In her spare time, she can be found baking cheesecakes, exploring the Maine coast or traveling with her family.
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Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 01/15/2026 at 1:00 PM (EST)
2026 Trends of Chief Human Resource Officers n the Public Sector
Mark your calendar for January 15th at 1:00 pm ET and join us for an informative and engaging webinar led my very own PSHRA President-Elect, Amy C. Blake, PSHRA-SCP, Director of HR & Risk Management, City of Liberty, MO.
We have put together a dynamic panel of thought leaders who will discuss key trends and challenges facing the public sector in 2026. They will share insights, predictions, and best practices for the coming year.
They will also discuss:
- Top 2026 Public Sector Trends
- The Impact
- Possible Solutions
- A Look to the Future
Moderator: Amy C. Blake, PSHRA-SCP, PSHRA President-Elect and Director of HR & Risk Management, City of Liberty, MO.
Panelists:
- Lisa Boland, Chief Human Resources Officer, Loudon County Public Schools, VA
- Anquilla Henderson, PSHRA-SCP, Chief Human Resources Officer, Clayton County Water Authority, GA
- Patrick Ho, PSHRA-SCP, CCC, Chief Human Resources Officer, Gilmer County Government, GA
- Cassandra Tabor, Chief Human Resources Officer, Metropolitan Council, Saint Paul MN
PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.
Making public sector work better®.
Amy C. Blake, PSHRA-SCP (Moderator)
PSHRA President-Elect and Director of HR & Risk Management
City of Liberty, Missouri
Amy Blake is the Director of HR & Risk Management for the City of Liberty, MO and has served her community in this role for 20 years. Ms. Blake has been actively involved in PSHRA since 2003 at all levels from Chapter President to Central Region Board Member to Executive Council Member. She has received awards for her work and dedication in these roles, and continues to share her passion about public sector human resources through her current board position. Ms. Blake’s career strength is organizational and employee development by helping folks become the best version of themselves through total well-being and strategic career growth.
Lisa Boland
Chief Human Resources Officer
Loudon County Public Schools, VA
Lisa Boland currently serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer for Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), where she has been instrumental in shaping innovative and effective HR strategies since joining the division in 2015. With over two decades of experience in human resources across both the private and public sectors, Lisa has dedicated her career to fostering environments where employees thrive and reach their fullest potential.
At LCPS, Lisa oversees HR operations for one of Virginia’s largest and fastest-growing school divisions, serving more than 83,000 students and managing a workforce of over 14,000 employees. Under her leadership, LCPS has developed forward-thinking approaches to staff retention, employee engagement, and organizational culture. Notably, she spearheaded a division-wide tuition assistance program; launched a partnership with Participate Learning to recruit international educators, bringing global perspectives into LCPS classrooms; and led the creation of the Talent Development Program, designed to empower staff at every level to grow their careers and advance division goals.
Lisa has also played a pivotal role in guiding LCPS through its first-ever collective bargaining process. She led the development of the division’s bargaining framework, collaborated across departments to ensure legal and operational readiness, and supported negotiations resulting in LCPS’s first tentative collective bargaining agreements—an achievement that positions the division as a leader in Virginia’s evolving public-sector labor landscape.
Before transitioning to the public sector, Lisa held significant HR and people-leadership roles at organizations including Nestlé USA, SAIC, and Leidos, where she built expertise in HR operations, workforce development, and organizational strategy. Her career began at Outback Steakhouse, where she rose quickly to become a People Support Specialist, managing HR functions for multiple restaurant locations.
Lisa holds a bachelor’s degree from Mount St. Mary’s University and is a passionate advocate for education and public service. She lives in Loudoun County, Virginia, with her husband and four children.
Anquilla Henderson, PSHRA-SCP
Chief Human Resources Officer
Clayton County Water Authority, GA
Anquilla Henderson serves as the Chief Human Resources Officer for the award-winning Clayton County Water Authority (CCWA), bringing several years of diverse HR experience in both the public and private sectors.
Before joining CCWA, Anquilla was the Director of Human Resources for the newly established City of South Fulton, where she built the city’s first Human Resources Department from the ground up. She also served as Chair of the Henry County Government inaugural Board of Ethics.
A transformational HR leader, Anquilla has been recognized locally, regionally, and nationally for her innovation, collaboration, and leadership excellence.
She holds a Master of Science in Human Resources Management from Central Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources Administration & Development from Mercer University. Her professional credentials include Senior Certified Professional from the Public Sector Human Resources Association (PSHRA-SCP), Six Sigma Yellow Belt, and Registered Mediator with the Georgia Commission on Dispute Resolution. Anquilla is also a Certified Workplace Mediator and Trainer in Conflict Resolution.
Patrick Ho, PSHRA-SCP, CCC
Chief Human Resources Officer
Gilmer County Government, GA
Patrick Ho is an HR professional with over 9 years’ experience mostly working in the public sector including state/local government. Currently the Chief Human Resources Officer for Gilmer County Government in Georgia. Patrick was appointed as the HR Director by the Gilmer County Board of Commissioners early 2023. He is currently pursuing a Juris Doctors degree and currently holds a Masters of Public Administration with a concentration in Public Sector HR Administration and a Bachelors of Science in Political Science from Kennesaw State University. Patrick had success in rebuilding/rebranding past employers with their Human Resources department which included company-wide re-organizations, new system implementation, revamping the hiring process and creating an official orientation/seminar university program for them.
Cassandra Tabor
Chief Human Resources Officer
Metropolitan Council, Saint Paul MN
Cassandra Tabor is the Chief Human Resources Officer for the Metropolitan Council, joining the organization in the Fall of 2023. She is an accomplished HR professional that has served the last 13 years in public sector entities. Prior to a second career in public sector, she led organizational development and HR within private industries and post-secondary institutions. Cassandra began with an Education degree and later earned her Master’s in Public Administration and a Project Management certification. She lives in downtown Minneapolis with her husband and enjoys traveling and visiting her adult children.
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Contains 7 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 01/15/2026 at 12:00 PM (EST)
This class will start on January 14, 2026 and end on January 28, 2026
Welcome!
Thank you for your Power Learning Series registration. We are so excited you have looked to PSHRA® to help you grow in your career.
The Power Learning Series offers you a new way to grow your skills without the time commitment of a full course.
In this course, learners will explore the full investigation process from intake to reporting, with a focus on balancing legal, ethical, and organizational considerations. Participants will gain tools to plan, conduct, and document investigations with fairness, consistency, and clarity. The content will be delivered through a realistic and engaging case study.
Learners will gain the skills to conduct fair and effective workplace investigations. The course will be delivered over three-weeks with one-hour weekly online meetings.
Recertification Points: PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5
Don’t hesitate to contact us - PSHRA – Debbie Tankersely-Snook, Associate Director, Member Programs, Membership - meetings@pshra.org.
Making public sector work better®.
Course Syllabus
Learners will explore the full investigation process from intake to reporting, with a focus on balancing legal, ethical, and organizational considerations. Participants will gain tools to plan, conduct, and document investigations with fairness, consistency, and clarity. The content will be delivered through a realistic and engaging case study.
Overview
This comprehensive learning program is designed for Human Resource (HR) professionals in the United States public sector. It prepares learners for the complexities and challenges of conducting fair and effective workplace investigations.
Learning Objectives
- Ensure Legal Compliance: Understand the legal frameworks and compliance requirements necessary for conducting workplace investigations.
- Support the Complainant and Prevent Retaliation: Master communication techniques that prioritize confidentiality and complainant protections.
- Enhance Investigative Skills: Learn advanced investigative techniques to conduct thorough and effective investigations.
- Apply Skills Practically: Engage in scenario-based activities that simulate real-life challenges, enhancing practical application skills.
Program Components
Workshop 1
- Introduction to Workplace Investigations: Overview of legal and ethical considerations specific to public sector contexts.
- Supporting the Complainant, Preventing Retaliation: Processes and techniques.
Workshop 2
- Planning an Investigation: Steps for a thorough, timely and impartial investigation.
- Conducting Interviews: Developing effective interview questions and documentation.
Workshop 3
- Gathering and Analyzing Evidence: Managing your own bias, selecting and collecting evidence from various sources.
- Reporting and Concluding an Investigation: Deciding on the outcomes and recommendations, and communicating the results.
The course will be delivered over three-weeks with 3 one-hour weekly online meetings.
Please let us know if you run into any problems or have questions as soon as possible. We want to make sure you are to have the best possible learning experience.
All your course materials will be found on your course dashboard.
Course Design:
The course will be delivered over three-weeks with three one-hour sessions per week. You will receive details about the dates, times, and the URL for your course meetings
Time Commitment:
Plan for 1 hour for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for course meetings. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the course meeting to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans. All course materials are included on your course dashboard (no textbook is required).
Meetings and Discussions:
- Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
- Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."
Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):
- Start Date: 1/14/2026
- Completion Date: 1/28/2026
- Meeting 1: 1/14/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
- Meeting 2: 1/21/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
- Meeting 3: 1/28/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
Certificate of Attendance: You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.
Cancellation Policy: Professional Development Cancelation Policy
Recertification Points: PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5
Making public sector work better®.
Beatriz Coningham, Ed.D.
Dr. Coningham is a global consultant in organizational leadership, learning, change, and human resource management. She is also part of the adjunct faculty of the George Washington University, in Washington DC, where she lives. Her experience includes public sector, non-profit and for profit organizations in the United States and abroad. As part of her career in leadership roles in human resources she has personally conducted multiple workplace investigations and trained human resources teams on the investigation process.