With over fifteen years of experience as a government innovation expert, I help organizations create and sustain a culture of creativity, empowerment, and results. I am the CEO and author of Sustainovation, a definitive guide and a growing community of practitioners on building innovation in government for the benefit of the citizens. I have keynoted, trained, consulted, or facilitated in over 100 communities across the country, teaching hands-on techniques and sharing inspiring stories on how to make ideas a reality and break the bureaucracy.

I partner with teams across the country on building high-performance operations, including building effective and innovative teams, efficient processes, creating measurable, actionable results, being clear and accountable, and engaging the community. This includes over 3 dozen training topics, a network of specialized partners, and tools like performance measurement, process improvement, prioritization, creativity, productivity, strategic planning, and citizen engagement, using data-driven and lean methodologies. I am passionate about transforming the public sector into a high-performing, transparent, and accountable entity that serves the common good.

I believe in the power of Team Us, and I strive to make innovation fun, effective, and sustainable.

Specialties: managing workplace stress, burnout and anxiety

Brian Potts is a nationally renowned mental health professional with over 24 years of experience. As the Client Development Manager at the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, he has built key partnerships to enhance mental health programs. His career includes roles at Therapy Brands, Cordant Health Solutions, Ameritox, and Eli Lilly, showcasing his expertise in relationship building, strategic account management, and program development. Brian holds a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Purdue University and has received numerous accolades, including the President’s Council Award. His commitment to improving mental health care makes him a trusted and influential advocate in the field.

Mark McGraw has been a writer and journalist for more than 25 years, with more than two decades’ worth of experience covering HRand the workplace.  

Originally hailing from Eastern PA and currently residing outside of Nashville, TN, Courtney has spent much of the last decade in public sector HR management in 2 different states.  Her passion is the intersection of people and technology, focusing on process improvement, servant leadership, and “working smarter.”  Her current role as the HR Director for the City of Gallatin allows her to serve the employees and managers that serve the citizens of “Gracious, Growing Gallatin,” with the emphasis on service which is part of her personal mission.  Another focus of her personal mission is to shed light on the value of neurodiversity and neurodiverse individuals in the workplace.  

Professional Public Service Summary

Lifelong public servant with over 34 years of experience in municipal government.  A passion for continuous learning and making positive, creative, and impactful improvements that benefit the public as a whole.  Understand the importance of collaborative and team - oriented approach needed for success in the public arena with emphasis on building lasting partnerships that create a win – win environment for all.

Public Service Professional Work Experience

City of Strongsville, Ohio:  December of 1997 – Current

Director of Human Resources since January, 2011: Strategic partner of a progressive Northeast Ohio Suburb of Cleveland.  City of approximately 47,000 residents; Aaa rated community that is one of only 16 communities in the State of Ohio.  Strongsville operates as a Mayor/Council form of Government.  The Human Resource Director position oversees all benefit plans including broker oversight; all wellness initiatives; contract negotiations of seven labor union contracts; manages all compliance related matters (including: ADA, FMLA, EEOC); compensation and position classification; recruitment; retention; DEIA efforts; leadership development and succession planning.

Prior to 2011: City of Strongsville Recreation Department – Director 2004-2010; Asst. Director 2000-2004; Recreation Supervisor 1997-1999.

City of Brook Park, Ohio: July 1991 – December 1997

Deputy Director of Recreation

Education:

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Education from Bowling Green State University, Concentration - Sport Management – 1988

Juris Doctorate (JD) from Cleveland Marshall College of Law – 2001

Admitted to Practice Law in the State of Ohio 2002 

Jennifer Fairweather was PSHRA's 2022 President. She is currently the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) for Jefferson County, located in Golden Colorado. She is also an Affiliate Professor with Regis University where she facilitates undergraduate and graduate courses for the College of Business and Economics. Jennifer has been an active volunteer and member of PSHRA for over 22 years and has held volunteer leadership roles at all levels of the Association, including the chapter level, region level and national level.

Cyndi Stafford has worked in the field of public sector human resources for over 30 years. Her experience includes being a Director and Deputy Director of HR with agencies with varying community services including airports, seaports, water, gas, police, fire, emergency management, economic development and many more.  She oversaw a staff involved in recruitment and selection, payroll, benefit administration, classification and compensation, EEO, training, labor and employee relations and risk management, including workers’ compensation, general liability, and contract risk transfer.  Cyndi left her fulltime position and opened her consulting firm, Stafford HR Consulting, in 2021, providing the full range of HR services to public sector agencies in California.

Cyndi holds dual bachelor’s degrees from the University of Southern California in Political Science and International Relations and a master’s in public administration from California State University, Long Beach. As a life-long HR professional, Cyndi was one of the first in the country to achieve her Certification of IPMA-CE (Certified Executive) through the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (PSHRA).  Cyndi also teaches an intro to HRM class at California State University, Long Beach where she shares her passion for HR with her students.  

Nathan Williams is the Chief People Officer for Gilbert, Arizona. Gilbert is the 5^th largest city in Arizona serving just over 280,000 residents just outside of Phoenix. Prior to joining Gilbert, Nathan spent more than a decade in HR roles in the private sector, and 3 years teaching Strategic Human Resources to college undergrads. He moved to Arizona in 2006 to attend Arizona State University, where he earned his MBA. Nathan’s mix of public and private HR experience allows him to approach challenges and situations through a couple different HR lenses. He is passionate about leader and employee development, employee engagement, technology, and data, and believes HR leaders must be focused on upskilling and reskilling themselves and others to better utilize these tools and disciplines to be competitive for the future! 

I currently administer and direct general human resource programs that enhance employee relations, policy development, long-range planning, and overall program compliance with federal and state regulations. I provide consultation to employees and supervisors in resolving discipline, morale problems, grievances; and I administer internal employee communications regarding benefits and policy/procedure changes. I am also a member of the 

PSHRA North Carolina Chapter.

With an illustrious career spanning 40 years in the realm of local government, I am deeply committed to public service and the pursuit of excellence. Currently, I hold the esteemed positions of Human Resource Director and City Recorder at Midvale City, where I play a pivotal role in shaping the city's administrative landscape. 

 My journey through public service has been fortified by a wealth of knowledge and experience. I am the proud bearer of a master's degree in public administration, a testament to my dedication to academic excellence and a profound understanding of the complexities of local governance. Furthermore, I have acquired several prestigious Human Resource certifications, underscoring my commitment to staying at the forefront of industry best practices. My distinguished achievement as a Master Municipal Clerk attests to my mastery of municipal administration. 

 In my current role, I wear multiple hats with finesse. As the Human Resource Director, I oversee a critical department responsible for managing and nurturing the city's most valuable asset—its workforce. My responsibilities extend to managing municipal elections, ensuring they are conducted seamlessly and in compliance with all regulations. I also serve as the city's backup Public Information Officer, reinforcing the importance of transparent and timely communication with the public. In addition, I take on the role of a Risk Manager, ensuring that the city operates with diligence and prudence, safeguarding against potential liabilities. 

 Beyond my official capacities, I have embraced entrepreneurship by founding "Positive Impact Consulting, LLC." This venture allows me to extend my expertise in human resources, providing consulting services to a diverse range of entities. Moreover, I have taken on the role of a contract administrator for a city, further expanding my influence in the world of municipal governance. 

My passion for public service is deeply rooted, and I am driven by a genuine desire to provide excellent service to my community. Each day, I strive to make a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of those I serve, ensuring that the values of integrity, accountability, and compassion remain at the core of my professional journey. 

In every endeavor, I remain dedicated to the principles of good governance, transparency, and the betterment of our communities, making it my mission to ensure that local government operates at its finest.

Monica Kennedy has been in HR leadership roles for 25 years, including serving in the Marine Corps. Her experience spans both the private and public sectors. She is currently the Director of Human Resources for the Town of La Plata, Maryland and runs her own consulting business.

As a lifelong learner, she holds master’s degrees in human resources, business intelligence, and project management. She is currently working on her Doctorate in organizational leadership and development.  She maintains senior certifications in HRCI, SHRM, and PSHRA. She is also a certified ADA Coordinator.

Monica frequently speaks at local and national ADA and Virginia and Maryland state conferences. In 2021, she wrote a featured article in the September issue of HR News.

She is an active member of the Southern Maryland SHRM chapter and the president-elect of the Patuxent River Basin PSHRA chapter. Monica volunteers with Hire Heroes, assisting service members as they transition into civilian roles.

When she’s not engaged in HR activities, Monica can be found at Walt Disney World or on a Disney cruise. She also participates in endurance running events, having completed six marathons and almost 50 half marathons. 

Sherry A. Bratton holds a Master of Science in Management with a focus on Human Resource Management and a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management, complemented by a minor in Accounting, from the University of Maryland – University College.

A lifelong resident of Caroline County, Maryland, Sherry has dedicated her career to serving the County Commissioners of Caroline County since January 1997. She began her journey in the Office of Finance, where she managed payroll and accounts payable. Her passion for human resources led her to transition to the Office of Human Resources, where she specialized in payroll, benefits, recruitment, and employee relations.

In September 2017, Sherry took on the role of Director of Human Resources. There, she began her extensive experience to oversee a variety of critical functions, including payroll, benefits, risk management, policy development, compliance, and personnel budgeting. Sherry’s deep-rooted experience in both finance and human resources provides her with a heartfelt commitment to effective HR practices and organizational management, reflecting her dedication to supporting and enhancing her community.

Mikala Glanton is the HRIS Division Supervisor for Cumberland County Government. He is a dedicated HR professional with nearly a decade of experience consulting in both the private and public sectors. He holds a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology and the SHRM-CP, providing a formidable foundation in HR theory and practice. 

Bob is a Consulting Principal with Pontifex Consulting and faculty for DePaul U. in their MSHR and MBA programs. He has four decades of experience, has published four books and authored over 300 articles. He was a principal designer for the SPHR and PHR certifications for SHRM and the CCP and GRP certifications for World at Work. He was the first recipient of the Keystone Award for attaining the highest level of excellence. He holds the CCP, CBP, GRP, SHRM-SCP, SPHR and GPHR certifications.

After a stint as a television sportscaster, Pete began his Disney career in 1994.  Over the next 13 years, he managed various areas of Disney's theme parks and resorts, where he learned what it takes to run a world-class organization.  Pete was blessed to spend a majority of his time working at the Disney University.  While there, he led the Traditions program, which is known worldwide as one of the premiere employee orientation programs. He also facilitated college level courses to thousands of Disney College Interns, and was a Segment Learning Manager for Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort, and the Disney Cruise Line.

Pete is the Training and OD Manager for the Personnel Board of Jefferson County.  He is also a leadership expert and professional speaker, as he also works with organizations and associations across the U.S., helping them achieve their goals in the areas of leadership, employee engagement and customer experience.

Pete received the prestigious “Partners in Excellence” award from Disney, which is presented to the top 3% of all employees.  He also earned the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation from the National Speakers Association and the Certified Facilitator of Training (CFT) from The Center for International Credentials.

His two books are Employee Engagement: Lessons from the Mouse House and 55 Ways to add Disney Magic to your Organization.

I've been fortunate to work in Human Resources for over 25 years! And, most recently, I've been given the opportunity to also oversee Information Systems and Communications. I love working with and for people. Working for both the public and the private sector has given me a wide range of experiences with which to draw from. My favorite part of my job is career development and helping others reach their goals through training and coaching.

I am a successful, versatile, human resource professional with more than 25 years experience leading, building, aligning and executing talent and workforce strategies that drive a business forward. Specialties: HR Visioning, Compensation: Strategy, and Plan Design for both Executives and Employees, Performance Management System Development, Employment Law, Benefits: ERISA Compliance, Management, Strategy, Negotiation, Implementation, Design, and Communication, HR & Cash Audit Oversight and Audit Design and Implementation, Workers Comp & General Liability Insurance Negotiations and administration, Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan Design & Management, 401(k) Plan Design & Management. I-9 Compliance, Pension Planning and administration, (CalPERS), 457 Plans administration, leadership training and development, employee relations and labor negotiation.

Recipient of the CALPELRA 2018 Moving Forward Award recognizing innovative leadership.

Joe is currently the Human Resources Director for Prince William County, 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).

Joe and his wife, Amy reside in Fredericksburg with their son Bruce is a Senior attending the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) pursuing a Civil Engineering degree .  

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.

Tamara Dixon is currently the Human Resources Director and Chief Diversity Officer for the City of Northglenn, in Northglenn Colorado. She has worked in the private and public sectors for Parson Consulting, City and County of Denver, City of Lone Tree, City of Wheat Ridge and Town of Parker, and as an adjunct professor for the University of Colorado at Denver. Ms. Dixon has spent her 20+ year career being a customer service practitioner, adept trainer, organizational development expert, and human resources specialist.  Her areas of expertise include diversity, equity and inclusion, culture change initiatives, performance management, leadership training, strategic planning, and retreat facilitation.

Tamara holds her bachelor’s degree in political science (BS) from Tuskegee University, master’s degree in public administration (MPA) from Auburn University (WAR EAGLE!) and Senior Certified Professional designation from both the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-SCP) and the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM-SCP). She is past-President of the Western Region IPMA-HR and is the current elected Western Region representative for the PSHRA Executive Council. As part of the Executive Council, she has co-chaired the Governance and By-Laws subcommittees, and Region Advisory Committee Taskforce.

Leadership and service is her passion and raising 14-year-old Sydney Olivia is her joy!

Jane E. Cheeks is a tenured HR management professional with diversified leadership successes in both the public and corporate sectors. Jane holds a solid reputation for executing large-scale consolidation strategies and maintaining stellar oversight of a budget of over $450 million dollars. 

Jane has served the City of Houston for over 24 years, specializing in the operation of core Human Resource functions. As the Director of the City’s Human Resources department, she currently manages over 300 HR professionals who ensures the City’s employees, retirees, dependents, and survivors receive vital human resources benefits and services.

Jane’s ability to maintain solidarity among her employees is showcased by her breakthrough accomplishments including leadership of a seven-department consolidation to form the City’s present-day General Services Department and the centralized Human Resources Department for the City of Houston.

 She recently led HR’s digital transformation, the HROne project, which included the successful implementation of SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central and BenefitFocus’ Benefitplace platform. This project focused on replacing the existing HR Core and Benefits Administration infrastructure to an updated, integrated system that has engaged and increased the productivity and mobility of employees and modernized the HR business systems at the City of Houston. Now she is embarking on a work-life transformation with the City’s current employee engagement survey, Involve & Evolve, which will be different from any other engagement survey as the survey has a five-phase approach that will take City employees on continuous journey for years to come. Most recently, she led the city by establishing a state-of-the-art Wellness Center Facility. The Wellness Center Facility provides a holistic approach where employees will have access to healthcare coaches, dieticians, while also being able to use onsite exercise equipment and/or participate in a variety of wellness fitness activities, seminars, and more. 

Jane’s keen regard for customer service and her employees, as well as her commitment to public service, are elements that drive her success. She continues to serve the city by working to reform succession planning, the standardization of HR practices, policies, and procedures, and bring innovation as common practice in HR for the City of Houston.

Dalton Rice, MSHS, CPM, became the City Manager of Kerrville in October2023, following his tenure as City Manager for Morgan’s Point Resort. With 13years of service in the U.S. Army Special Forces, Dalton brings a diversebackground that includes experience as a paramedic, firefighter, and healthcareadministrator. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration and Law, an MSHS inHealth Care Quality, and is a Certified Public Manager. Active in professionalorganizations, Dalton is a member of International City/ County ManagementAssociation (ICMA), Texas City Management Association (TCMA), and serves onboards such as the Kerrville Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), ElevateAdult Education, and Here’s to Our Heroes. Rice also participates in communityactivities through the Rotary Club.

Dalton is married to his wife, Anna, and they have three children: Rylan,aged 14, and twins Rhett and Ryker, aged 6. His leadership is grounded infamily values and community engagement, balancing the demands of public servicewith his personal passions. In his free time, Dalton enjoys flying, skydiving,scuba diving, camping, and traveling with his family.