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  • 2026 Public Sector HR Essentials Certificate Program - Starting on 3/24/2026
    Contains 20 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 03/30/2026 at 3:30 PM (EDT)

    This class will start on March 24, 2026 and end on June 2, 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: 3/24/2026
    • Completion Date: 6/2/2026
    • Cohort Session 1:  3/30/2026 - 3:30 - 5:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 2:  4/13/2026 - 3:30 - 5:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 3:  4/27/2026 - 3:30 - 5:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 4:  5/11/2026 - 3:30 - 5:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 5:  5/26/2026 - 3:30 - 5:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 6:  6/23/2026 - 3:30 - 5:00 pm ET

    Course Content:

    Week 1 - Introduction

    Cohort Session 1:  Introduction

    Week 2 - Lesson 1:  Public Sector Basics

    Week 3 - Lesson 2:  Recruitment

    Cohort Session 2:  Public Sector HR Basics & Recruitment

    Week 4 - Lesson 3:  Selection

    Week 5 - Lesson 4:  Classification and Compensation

    Cohort Session 3:  Selection, Classification & Compensation

    Week 6 - Lesson 5:  Benefits

    Week 7 - Lesson 6:  Labor and Employee Relations

    Cohort Session 4:  Benefits and Labor Management Relations

    Week 8 - Lesson 7:  Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity

    Week 9 - Lesson 8:  Organizational Development

    Cohort Session 5:  Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity, Organization

    Week 10 - Lesson 9:  Course Summary

    Cohort Session 6:  Course Summary and Wrap-up


    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™.

  • 2026 Strategies for Public Sector HR Leaders Certificate Program - Starting 3/17/2026
    Contains 13 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 03/25/2026 at 2:00 PM (EDT)

    This class will start on March 17, 2026 and end on May 1,2026

    Syllabus:  Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Certificate Program
     
    Start Date: March 17, 2026
    End Date:  May 1, 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 – 3/25/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET
    • Cohort #2 – 4/8/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET
    • Cohort #3 – 4/14/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET
    • Cohort #4 - 4/22/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET

    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.

  • AI With Accountability: The Future of Ethical Technology in Public Sector HR
    Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 03/19/2026 at 1:00 PM (EDT)

    AI With Accountability: The Future of Ethical Technology in Public Sector HR

    Please join us on Thursday, March 19th at 1 PM ET for an engaging dialogue on the future of ethical use of technology in public sector HR. This webinar will be the first in PSHRA’s exciting new three-part series called Future Forward Webinar Series 2026.

    We have assembled a panel of rising and seasoned public sector HR professionals to discuss how to responsibly integrate AI while safeguarding equity and compliance. As public sector agencies embrace AI for hiring, workforce planning, and service delivery, HR leaders will face the challenge of balancing innovation with transparency, ethics, and public trust.

    Future Forward Webinar Series 2026—in celebration of PSHRA's 120 years of connecting public sector HR professionals with the insights, education and expertise needed for success. This three-part series will focus on AI, redesigning work, and trust.

    Moderator: Dr. Patrick Henley, Director of Human Resources and Risk Management, Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority, GA

    Panelists:

    • Julian Brambila, PSHRA-CP, Analyst II, Western Riverside Council of Governments, CA
    • Mikala Glanton, HRIS Division Supervisor, County of Cumberland, NC
    • Bob Lavigna, Former PSHRA President and Advocate for the Public Sector and Public Servants; Author and Speaker

    PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.

    Making public sector work better®.

    Dr. Patrick Henley

    Director of Human Resources and Risk Management

    Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority, GA

    Dr. Patrick Henley serves as the Director of Human Resources and Risk Management at the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority, one of Georgia’s largest public water utilities, where he leads award-winning initiatives in leadership development, talent strategy, and workforce planning. With over 20 years of experience in HR and risk management leadership, Patrick brings a wealth of expertise in aligning talent strategy with business goals to drive organizational success.

    In addition to his executive role, Patrick is a passionate educator, teaching HR, management, and technology courses at the college level for over a decade. His engaging, research-informed approach blends academic rigor with real-world application, earning him recognition for Best Total Rewards Strategy in 2021 and being a finalist for Best Learning & Development and Talent Management Strategy (Atlanta Business Chronicle and SHRM-Atlanta), and as a winner of the Diversity & Inclusion Award from the Georgia Section of AWWA.
    Patrick holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from the Florida Institute of Technology, an MBA from Troy University, and a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Kennesaw State University. He is certified at the highest levels of the profession with both SPHR and SHRM-SCP designations. Known for his humor, humility, and data-driven mindset, Patrick is deeply committed to helping organizations and HR professionals navigate change, embrace innovation, and build resilient, high-performing teams.

    Mikala Glanton, MAIO, SHRM-CP

    HRIS Division Supervisor

    Cumberland County

    Mikala Glanton is a strategic human resources leader with nearly a decade of experience spanning both private and public sectors. He currently serves as the HRIS Division Supervisor for Cumberland County Government, a key stakeholder in the integration of enterprise systems, automation tools, and digital workflows—transforming service delivery and elevating the employee experience at every touchpoint with HR. Known for bridging people strategy and technology, Mikala brings a systems-thinking approach to addressing complex organizational challenges. He also holds a SHRM Specialty Credential in Artificial Intelligence + Human Ingenuity (AI+HI), positioning him at the forefront of responsible innovation in the public sector. Mikala is passionate about building agile, data-informed, and human-centered workplaces that evolve with the needs of the modern workforce.

    Robert Lavigna

    Former PSHRA President and Advocate for the Public Sector and Public Servants; Author and Speaker

    Bob Lavigna is an award-winning leader with 40 years of experience leading public sector human resources organizations and programs. He recently retired from UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group), where he advocated for, promoted and advised on effective practices that enable government to attract and retain talent.

    He previously was founding Director of the Institute for Public Sector Employee Engagement, which worked with governments across the nation to measure and improve employee engagement.

    Bob is the author of Engaging Government Employees: Motivate and Inspire Your People to Achieve Superior Performance (Harper Collins), the only book to focus exclusively on improving engagement in the unique environment of the public sector.

    He also served as Assistant Vice Chancellor and Director of HR for the University of Wisconsin, Vice President of the nonprofit Partnership for Public Service, and Director of the state of Wisconsin merit system. He began his career with the U.S. Government Accountability Office.

     Bob is an elected Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration, was selected as a “Public Official of the Year” by Governing magazine, received the PSHRA “Stockberger Award,” and is in the National Association of State Personnel Executives “Hall of Fame.” He is also a past president of PSHRA.

    The first member of his family to graduate from college, Bob has a B.A. in Public Affairs from George Washington University and an M.S. in Human Resources Management from Cornell University.

    Julian Brambila, PSHRA-CP

    Analyst II

    Western Riverside Council of Governments, CA

    Julian Brambila is a Management Analyst with the Administrative Services Department at Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG), a regional agency that supports collaboration among local governments in Western Riverside County. He has been with WRCOG for over four years, where his work focuses on administrative operations, human resources, and organizational support.

    Julian earned his degree in Public Policy from University of California, Riverside and recently obtained his PSHRA-CP certification. In 2025, he was named a Rising Star in HR by PSHRA Southern California. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling and attending concerts.

  • 2026 Public Sector HR Executive Leadership Certificate Program - Starting on 2/17/2026
    Contains 14 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 03/03/2026 at 1:00 PM (EST)

    This course is open from February 17, 2026 - April 21, 2026

    Syllabus:  Public Sector HR Executive Leadership Certificate Program

     

    Welcome:

    Welcome to PSHRA's Public Sector HR Executive Leadership Certificate Program. This course will enhance your HR public sector leadership skills and help you develop targeted initiatives to improve your agency.

    Course Outcomes

    This course is designed to help you build your HR competencies and help you strategically position HR as a transformative business partner and leader in the organization.

    To achieve this, the course focuses on 3 related areas:

    • Your skill set in the 4 HR Lenses: business acumen; innovation; strategic orientation; and diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. As part of this course, you will build a personal development plan for these competencies. 
    • Your skill set in the HR Areas of Focus: leadership, culture, talent, technology, and communication. You will build a personal development plan for these competencies as well.
    • Finally, you'll learn strategies for building, presenting, and gaining buy-in for the initiatives you develop to improve how HR is positioned within your agency.

    You will finish this course with:

    • a personal professional development plan,
    • actions you will take to improve how HR is positioned within your agency.


    Certificate:

    You will earn a Certificate of Executive Leadership from PSHRA with your successful completion of both the online lessons and cohort session.

    You may have attended an Executive Leadership in-person course.  Welcome! This learning experience will complement and enhance the material from that program and provide additional support as you build your leadership expertise.

     

    Course Design:

    This course includes six lessons that you'll take online and three cohort sessions where you'll meet with peers also taking this course. The online lessons will give you an opportunity to assess your development opportunities; teach important concepts, principles, and practices; and will help you begin planning improvement initiatives. Explore the course interactive elements and links to outside references to get the most out of the course.  The cohort discussions will give you an opportunity to share ideas and learn from your peers. In the cohort discussions you will further develop and refine the improvement plans you draft in the online sessions.

     

    Time Commitment:

    The more dedicated time and effort you put into this course the more you will get out of it.

    To read the material, complete the activities, and prepare for the cohort discussions, consider scheduling 60 - 90 minutes for each lesson. Try to take the lesson at least several days before the cohort discussion - to give yourself time to reflect on what you have learned and the plans you have developed.


    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 – 2/17/2026 - 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM ET

    Cohort #2 – 3/3/2026 - 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM ET

    Cohort #3 -- 3/17/2026 - 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM ET

    Cohort #4 -- 3/31/2026 - 1:00 PM - 2:30 PM ET

     

    Week 1:

    Online Lesson (self-paced)

    Lesson 1: Introduction

    Course Introduction.

     

    Week 2:

     Online Lesson (self-paced)

    Lesson 2: Assess Your Skills Through the Critical Lenses

    Learn more about business acumen; innovation; strategic orientation; and diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

     

    Cohort Session (virtual)

    Session 1: Introduction and Assess Your Skill Set

    Reviewing and discussing the content from the first two lessons.

     

    Week 3:

    Online Lesson (self-paced)

    Lesson 3: Assess Your Skills Through the Areas of Focus

    Learn more about leadership, culture, talent, technology, and communication.

     

    Week 4:

    Online Lesson (self-paced)

    Lesson 4: Your Role as a Trusted Advisor

    Learn about executive presence, leading with empathy, and how to build trust to drive collaboration.

     

    Cohort Session (virtual)

    Session 2: Area of Focus Skills and Being a Trusted Advisor

    Reviewing and discussing the content from the third and fourth lesson.

     

    Week 5:

    Online Lesson (self-paced)

    Lesson 5: Creating a Personal Development Plan

    Take all that you've learned in the online lessons and cohort sessions and create a personal development plan.


    Week: 6

    Online Lesson (self-paced)

    Lesson 6: Leveraging Your Skills

    Create a plan to influence agency strategy and short-term projects based upon the skills learned in this course.

     

    Cohort Session (virtual)

    Session 3: Personal Development Plan and Leveraging Your Skills

    Reviewing and discussing the content from the fifth and sixth lessons.

     

    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 Executive Leadership Workbook.

    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.

  • 2026 Public Sector HR Essentials Certificate Program - Starting on 2/24/2026
    Contains 20 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 02/26/2026 at 2:30 PM (EST)

    This class will start on January 27, 2026 and end on May 5, 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: 2/24/2025
    • Completion Date: 5/5/2026
    • Cohort Session 1:  2/26/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ETT
    • Cohort Session 2:  3/10/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 3:  3/24/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 4:  4/1/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 5:  4/21/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 6:  5/5/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET

    Course Content:

    Week 1 - Introduction

    Cohort Session 1:  Introduction

    Week 2 - Lesson 1:  Public Sector Basics

    Week 3 - Lesson 2:  Recruitment

    Cohort Session 2:  Public Sector HR Basics & Recruitment

    Week 4 - Lesson 3:  Selection

    Week 5 - Lesson 4:  Classification and Compensation

    Cohort Session 3:  Selection, Classification & Compensation

    Week 6 - Lesson 5:  Benefits

    Week 7 - Lesson 6:  Labor and Employee Relations

    Cohort Session 4:  Benefits and Labor Management Relations

    Week 8 - Lesson 7:  Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity

    Week 9 - Lesson 8:  Organizational Development

    Cohort Session 5:  Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity, Organization

    Week 10 - Lesson 9:  Course Summary

    Cohort Session 6:  Course Summary and Wrap-up


    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®.

    Cheryl Cepelak

    Having retired from the State of CT in July, 2022 with 34 years of service, Ms. Cepelak’s experience is in the areas of training and organizational development, including facilitation; strategic planning; performance management; leadership and supervisory development; and human resources, recruitment and retention. 

    She has taught numerous classes in these areas, instructing for Public Service Human Resources Association (PSHRA) and CT’s Training and Development Network, along with consulting and facilitating leadership and strategic planning sessions for various organizations.

    Ms. Cepelak’s state career spanned across 5 agencies with achievements including serving as Deputy Commissioner of Administration at the DOC for almost 10 years; hiring a COVID-focused team at DPH; and serving as an Interim Director at ADS / BESB.  She recently began consulting for The Moss Group and her work includes a nationwide scan of Correctional Training Academies.

    Ms. Cepelak earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Connecticut in 1986 and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Quinnipiac University in 2012. 

    Ms. Cepelak has been a member of the International Public Management Association for Human Resource professionals (IPMA-HR) since 1999 and in 2007, received the IPMA-HR designation, Certified Specialist, Organizational & Employee Development and served as the national President in 2020. 

    Currently, Ms. Cepelak is a Duty Office for the CT/RI Red Cross Chapter and a 200 hour Pranotthan trained yoga teacher.


  • Transforming People Management for a Hybrid and Remote Workforce
    Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 02/26/2026 at 1:00 PM (EST)

    Transforming People Management for a Hybrid and Remote Workforce

    image


    Join us on February 26th at 1:00 PM ET to discover how to implement virtual HR in the public sector. Our speaker will explore how to overcome challenges and seize new opportunities to boost organizational performance, enhance employee satisfaction, and improve service delivery. Transitioning to a virtual HR model can be a challenging yet rewarding journey, and we prioritize inclusivity and accessibility every step of the way.

    Don’t miss your chance to learn from fellow public sector professionals.

    Speaker:

    Trinija Martin, CHRM, PSHRA-SCP, Director of Human Resources, City of Richmond, Virginia 

    PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.

     
    Making public sector work better®.


    Trinija Martin, CHRM, PSHRA-SCP

    Director of Human Resources

    City of Richmond, Virginia

    Trinija Martin is an executive HR leader with over 20 years of experience driving organizational excellence across public and private sectors. As a principal partner at RTGuided Solutions, she provides strategic support and resources to HR professionals, helping them navigate modern HR challenges. Trinija has led impactful organizational transformations in roles at Wake County Government, City of Waycross, and City of Suwanee, and is also a military veteran and advisory board member dedicated to advancing the HR field.

  • 2026 Public Sector HR Essentials Certificate Program - Starting on 3/10/2026
    Contains 20 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 02/23/2026 at 2:30 PM (EST)

    This class will start on March 10, 2026 and end on May 19, 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: 3/10/2026
    • Completion Date: 5/19/2026
    • Cohort Session 1:  3/18/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ETT
    • Cohort Session 2:  3/27/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 3:  4/15/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 4:  4/23/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 5:  4/29/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
    • Cohort Session 6:  5/13/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET

    Course Content:

    Week 1 - Introduction

    Cohort Session 1:  Introduction

    Week 2 - Lesson 1:  Public Sector Basics

    Week 3 - Lesson 2:  Recruitment

    Cohort Session 2:  Public Sector HR Basics & Recruitment

    Week 4 - Lesson 3:  Selection

    Week 5 - Lesson 4:  Classification and Compensation

    Cohort Session 3:  Selection, Classification & Compensation

    Week 6 - Lesson 5:  Benefits

    Week 7 - Lesson 6:  Labor and Employee Relations

    Cohort Session 4:  Benefits and Labor Management Relations

    Week 8 - Lesson 7:  Equal Employment Opportunity and Diversity

    Week 9 - Lesson 8:  Organizational Development

    Cohort Session 5:  Equal Employment Opportunity & Diversity, Organization

    Week 10 - Lesson 9:  Course Summary

    Cohort Session 6:  Course Summary and Wrap-up


    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®.

    Joe Gilkerson

    Human Resources Director

    City of Charlottesville, VA

    Joe is currently the Human Resources Director for Charlottesville, VA, Joe has held Human Resources positions at the department head level in private sector, in local and federal government, and higher education.  Prior to his civilian career, Joe was in the Marine Corps serving as an Infantry Unit Leader with a tour as a Drill Instructor /Senior Drill Instructor at Parris Island, SC.

    Joe has completed a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management, a Master of Science degree in Organizational Leadership, the Senior Executive Institute (SEI) from the University of Virginia, a Graduate Certificate Program in Local Government Management (from Virginia Tech) and has earned Senior Certified Professional (PSHRA-SCP) designation from the Public Sector  Human Resources Association,  the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification from the Society of Human Resources Management (SHRM).  Joe is the past Virginia chapter president for IPMA-VA (2010-2011) and currently a member of the PSHRA South Advisory Committee.

    Joe and his wife, Amy reside in Fredericksburg Virginia.  


  • Black Voices in HR–"Leading Through Chaos: Purpose, Passion & Peace"
    Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 02/19/2026 at 1:00 PM (EST)

    Black Voices in HR–"Leading Through Chaos: Purpose, Passion & Peace"

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    Please join PSHRA on Thursday, February 19th at 1:00 pm ET, in celebration of Black History Month, for an engaging presentation by Dr. Kelly Drummond on how government HR professionals navigates constant change in today's complex workplace. Dr. Drummond will share with you how inclusive leadership transforms chaos into opportunity, uncertainty into innovation, and fear into engagement. You'll discover five practical action steps you can implement this week—no permission or budget required—to build psychological safety, increase employee engagement, and create sustainable change in your organization. This isn't theory—it's evidence-based, actionable leadership that will help you and your teams not just survive change but thrive through it. Come ready to lead with purpose, passion, and peace!

    This webinar will kick off our second year of Dialogue and Perspectives Webinar Series for 2026—a powerful initiative designed to amplify voices in public sector HR. This series will feature expert discussions, real-world insights, and actionable strategies to foster openness and leadership in our field. 

    Speaker:

    Dr. Kelly Drummond, Head of Talent Management, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Founder of My Soul in Bloom

    PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.

    Making public sector work better®.

    Head of Talent Management

    Director, Human Resources

    Boys & Girls Clubs of America

    Visionary leader and architect of purpose-driven organizations, Dr. Kelly Drummond brings 35+ years of transformational talent strategy expertise. As Head of Talent Management for BGCA, she designs the people systems and culture that enable mission-driven startups to thrive.

    Founder of My Soul In Bloom, Kelly empowers high-achieving professionals to align their work with purpose, passion, and peace. She specializes in succession planning, leadership development, and helping accomplished professionals live and grow with intention.

    A nationally recognized educator, Kelly holds a Doctorate in Human Resource Development, SPHR and SHRM-SCP certifications, and specialized credentials in career coaching and emotional intelligence. Her mission: help purpose-driven professionals live, work, and grow with integrity and joy.

  • 2026 Power Learning Series - Evidence of Impact: Evaluating HR Initiatives and Programs in the Public Sector - Starting 2/18/2026
    Contains 7 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 02/18/2026 at 3:00 PM (EST)

    This class will start on February 18, 2026 and end on March 4, 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. 

    Learners will gain the tools and frameworks to assess the effectiveness of initiatives using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Participants will learn the basics of defining impact, develop skills on how to design evaluations, explore methods to review data, and customize methods to communicate findings to drive strategic decisions and demonstrate value.. 

    Course Objectives: By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

    • Design basic evaluation frameworks for HR programs and initiatives
    • Collect and interpret qualitative and quantitative data
    • Assess cost-effectiveness and communicate results of impacts
    • Translate evidence into actionable recommendations

    The course will be delivered over three-weeks with one-hour weekly online sessions.

    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 Overview

    This three-session course equips HR professionals with the tools and frameworks to assess the effectiveness of initiatives using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Participants will learn the basics of defining impact, develop skills on how to design evaluations, explore methods to review data, and customize methods to communicate findings to drive strategic decisions and demonstrate value.

    Course Objectives: By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

    • Design basic evaluation frameworks for HR programs and initiatives
    • Collect and interpret qualitative and quantitative data
    • Assess cost-effectiveness and communicate results of impacts
    • Translate evidence into actionable recommendations

    Format: 3 Micro-Sessions (60 minutes each)

    Learning Objectives

    Session 1: Foundations of Impact

    Objective: Establish a shared understanding of what “impact” means in public sector HR and how to frame it.

    • What Is “Evidence of Impact”?
      • Definitions and relevance in public HR
      • Differences between outputs, outcomes, and impact
    • Logic Models & Theory of Change
      • Mapping inputs → activities → outputs → outcomes
      • Feedback Loops
      • Case examples from local, state, and federal HR programs
    • Types of Evaluations
      • Process vs. outcome evaluations
      • Quantitative vs. qualitative
    • Interactive Activity: Build a logic model for a sample HR initiative (e.g., recruitment, onboarding, DEI training, retention program, etc)

     Session 2: Methods & Measurement

    Objective: Explore tools and techniques for collecting and analyzing evidence.

    • Quantitative Metrics and Analysis
      • Key metrics examples: turnover rates, time-to-hire, cost-per-hire, engagement scores, pre/post surveys
      • Data Collection Methods: sampling, interviews, surveys, observations, data sets          
      • Descriptive vs. inferential statistics
    • Qualitative Techniques and Analysis
      • Key metric examples: manager/employee satisfaction, engagement, exit reasons, employee sentiments
      • Data Collection Methods: Interviews, focus groups, open-ended surveys
      • Analysis Methods: Content, narrative, discourse, thematic, and IPA analysis
    • Data Collection Considerations
      • Sampling, bias, and ethical considerations
      • Convenient data vs good data
      • Leveraging existing administrative data
      • Correlation vs. causation
    • Interactive Activities: Identify key data and metrics for impact evaluation, examine sample data set.

     Session 3: Impact Evaluation & Communicating Results

    Objective: Connect impact outcomes to organization’s values and audience.

    • Evaluating Impact
      • Pre/Post event comparisons
      • Cost-benefit and cost-effectiveness analysis
      • Budget alignment and fiscal sustainability
    • Communicating Findings
      • Storytelling with data
      • Using dashboards, scorecards, visuals, effectively
      • Writing executive summaries and impact briefs
      • Tailoring messages for elected officials, department heads, and employees
    • Interactive Activities: Choose data visuals, draft a short impact summary for a hypothetical HR initiative

    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.

    Meetings and Discussions:

    • Course 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 will be delivered over three-weeks with three one-hour sessions per week.  You will receive details about the dates, times, and your course URL.

    Time Commitment:

    Plan for 1 hours 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 meetings 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 Meeting Schedule (subject to change):

    • Start Date: 2/18/2026
    • Completion Date:  3/4/2026
    • Course Meeting 1:  2/18/2026 – 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm ET
    • Course Meeting 2:  2/24/2026 – 3:00 pm – 4:00 pm ET
    • Course Meeting 3:  3/4/2026 – 3:00 pm – 4:00 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®.

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    David Kitchen is driven by a passion to CONNECT and EMPOWER employees and leaders across the public sector. With more than 15 years of experience in public sector human resources, he is known for his modern, people-centered approach to HR operations and his commitment to data-informed, ethical leadership.

    David currently serves as the Human Resources Director for Lehi City, Utah, where he leads strategic HR initiatives that support a rapidly growing municipal workforce. He previously worked with the Utah Department of Human Resource Management, developing key performance indicators and strategic measures for a statewide HR shared services model. David also stays engaged with emerging HR technologies and trends, including completing the Partnership for Public Service’s AI Government Leadership Program.

    Beyond his municipal work, David is a partner with Compensation Survey System (comp-survey.com), an online platform that helps public sector agencies benchmark and manage compensation, benefits, and pay practices with greater accuracy and transparency.

    David’s commitment to advancing the HR profession extends deeply into his service with the Public Sector HR Association (PSHRA). He served as PSHRA Utah Chapter President from 2018 to 2020, and since 2021 he has been an active contributor on multiple regional and national PSHRA committees, supporting the association’s efforts to elevate professional standards, strengthen practitioner networks, and advance evidence-based HR practices.

    He holds a Master of Public Administration and a Bachelor of Communications from Brigham Young University and certifications as a PSHRA-SCP, SHRM-SCP, and PHR. David has presented nationally on topics including empathy and connection, trust-building in government, and data-driven HR strategy. He continues to mentor emerging professionals and contribute to thought leadership within the field.

  • PSHRA Professional Development Course Showcase
    Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Recorded On: 02/12/2026

    PSHRA Professional Development Course Showcase


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    Join us on February 12th at 1:00 PM ET for an exciting and

    career-changing webinar hosted by two of PSHRA’s expert instructors. Come join us to learn about our courses. Discover how they can support your growth.

    You will be led through an actual course activity or two.  Giving you the opportunity to test drive. You will also learn how and where to get started.  Don’t miss the chance to ask questions and learn how to advance your career! 

     Topics Included:

    •  Course Overview
    • Test Drive Course Activities
    • How to get started 

     Speakers:

    • Dr. Bernadette Costello, Managing Partner, BCC Consulting 
    • Isabel Vergara, PSHRA-SCP, Human Resources Manager, City of Nampa, and Idaho Chapter President

    PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.

    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.

    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.