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Contains 13 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 07/31/2026 at 2:00 PM (EDT)
This class will start on July 21 and end on September 4, 2026
Syllabus: Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Certificate Program
Start Date: July 21, 2026
End Date: September 4, 2026
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 – 7/31/2026 - 2:00 - 3:30 pm ET
- Cohort #2 – 8/14/2026 - 12:30 - 2:00 pm ET
- Cohort #3 - 8/21/2026 - 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort #4 - 8/31/2026 - 2:30 - 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.
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Contains 6 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 07/31/2026 at 12:00 PM (EDT)
This class will start on July 31, 2026 and end on September 4, 2026
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: 7/31/2026
- Completion Date: 8/14/2026
- Meeting 1: 7/31/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
- Meeting 1: 8/7/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
- Meeting 3: 8/14/2026 - 2:30 - 3:30 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®.
Dr. Tony Luton
HR Director
Town of Prosper
Tony is the current Director of Human Resources for the Town of Prosper. There he leads a diverse and talented team of HR professionals. His HR experience in Texas includes State, City and County Government over the last 15 years. Tony earned his Ph.D. from the Grand Canyon University, his MA from The University of Arizonia, his BA from the University of North Texas and PSHRA-SCP certification. Prior to joining Prosper, Tony served as the Assistant Director of Human Resources for Denton County.
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Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 07/30/2026 at 1:00 PM (EDT)
Branding Your Organization as an Employer of Choice
In today’s competitive labor market, especially within the public sector, organizations must do more than offer jobs. They must clearly define and communicate why they are a great place to work. This engaging webinar explores how public sector organizations can build a compelling employer brand that attracts, engages, and retains top talent.
Join us on Thursday, July 30th at 1 PM ET, as our presenters guide you through the fundamentals of employer branding, including how to articulate your organization’s mission, culture, and value proposition in ways that resonate with both current employees and prospective candidates. You will learn practical strategies for conducting honest organizational self-assessments, gathering meaningful employee feedback, and aligning leadership around a shared vision of becoming an “employer of choice.”
Also highlighted will be the unique advantages of public sector work, such as purpose-driven missions and community impact, and demonstrates how to effectively “market” these strengths in recruitment and retention efforts. Real-world examples, including insights from Jefferson County’s #TEAMJEFFCO approach, will illustrate how organizations can translate values into a strong, authentic employer brand.
Key Takeaways:
- Define and differentiate your employer’s brand in the public sector.
- Identify and communicate your organization’s unique value proposition.
- Leverage mission, culture, and employee experience as recruitment tools.
- Conduct effective internal assessments to strengthen your brand.
- Apply practical strategies to improve talent attraction, engagement, and retention.
Presenters:
- Jennifer Fairweather, DBA, PSHRA-SCP, Chief Human Resources Officer, Jefferson County, CO
- Robert J. Greene, Ph.D. CEO of Reward Systems, Inc., Consulting Principal at Pontifex
PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.
Making public sector work better®.
Robert Greene, Ph.D.
Consulting Principal
Pontifex Consulting
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.
Jennifer Fairweather, DBA, PSHRA-SCP
Chief Human Capital Officer, Jefferson County Human Resources, CO
PSHRA Past President
(she/her/hers)
Dr. Jennifer Fairweather is the Chief Human Resources Officer for Jefferson County, Colorado, and a Founding Partner of Dwennimmen Leadership Consulting. She also serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver and an Affiliate Professor at Regis University. With over 25 years of experience in both the public and private sectors, Dr. Fairweather has held leadership roles in human resources, finance, and human services. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Colorado, a Master of Arts in Human Resources Development from Webster University, and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Johnson & Wales University. Dr. Fairweather holds multiple professional certifications, including PSHRA-SCP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, and a Certificate in Professional Training. She is also a Prosci Certified Change Practitioner and a Certified Executive Coach (CEC). A recognized expert in leadership, human resources, and diversity, equity, and inclusion, she has facilitated sessions at both local and national forums. She is a Past Nationa l President of PSHRA, serves on the board of the Second Chance Center, and is a working group member for the Society for Women's Health Research.
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Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 07/16/2026 at 1:00 PM (EDT)
Building Better Government from Within: HR Excellence and Resident Satisfaction with Government
Governments across the country are being asked to do more with less, even as the public increasingly expects government to match the speed, accessibility, and responsiveness they experience elsewhere.
Groundbreaking new research has revealed that effective HR practices are the key to meeting this challenge. Specifically, highly effective HR practices are statistically linked to resident satisfaction with municipal government services and – more important – residents’ satisfaction with the quality of life in their community.
These findings provide unprecedented evidence that the local government workforce delivers outcomes important to government leaders. This is critical not just for HR but for all government leaders.
Join us on Thursday, July 16th at 1 PM ET as our presenters describe the research, including the specific HR practices that drive resident satisfaction with municipal government and quality of life – and recommendations for how other local governments can adapt and adopt these practices.
They will also present a case study on how one HR department, in Sachse, TX, has created a high-performing HR department that has driven high levels of resident satisfaction with Sachse government and quality of life in the community.
And they will make available to attendees the white paper, “Building Better Government from Within: Workforce Excellence and Resident Satisfaction with Government.”
Presenters:
- Bob Lavigna, Former PSHRA President and Advocate for the Public Sector and Public Servants; Author and Speaker
- Jana Ventura, Director of Human Resources, City of Sachse, TX
PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.
Making public sector work better®.
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.
Jana Ventura
Director of Human Resources
City of Sachse, Texas
Jana currently serves as the Director of Human Resources for the City of Sachse, Texas, located in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex. With nearly 20 years of experience in Human Resources, she has held leadership roles in both county and municipal governments and has also worked in the private sector in benefits consulting. Her diverse background has refined her ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders at all levels, driving strategic conversations and organizational change.
Jana is passionate about supporting fellow municipal HR professionals, helping them navigate the complexities of the public sector with insight and confidence. She has a particular passion for employee benefits and enjoys designing and communicating programs that meaningfully support and engage the workforce.
She holds a master’s degree in Human Resources Development from Villanova University and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Washburn University. Jana also holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification.
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Contains 7 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 07/14/2026 at 1:30 PM (EDT)
This class will start on July 14, 2026 and end on July 28, 2026
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.
Target Audience:
- Mid-level HR professionals in the public sector
- Compensation and classification specialists
- HR leaders seeking to modernize rewards strategies
- Agency managers responsible for performance management
- An Intermediate Level Course
Course Design:
- Three Live Virtual Sessions over three weeks
- Pre-Session Readings & Assignments
- Instructor-Led Discussions
- Peer Sharing and Case-Based Application
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 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 Meeting Schedule (subject to change):
- Start Date: 7/14/2026
- Completion Date: 7/28/2026
- Course Meeting 1: 7/14/2026 - 1:30 - 2:30 PM ET
- Course Meeting 2: 7/21/2026 - 1:30 - 2:30 PM ET
- Course Meeting 3: 7/28/2026 - 1:00 - 2:00 PM ET
Course Recordings: Coming Soon!
Course Content:
Before Session 1 -- Attendees to submit (rewardsystems@sbcglobal.net) their most critical issues related to compensation management and complete readings for Session 1.
SESSION 1 — Instructor will review attendee submissions of issues - Topic: Evaluating the agency's context and formulating its value proposition: Compensation Philosophy and Compensation Strategy
Before Session 2 -- Attendees to draft and submit (rewardsystems@sbcglobal.net) their compensation philosophy and complete readings for Session 2
SESSION 2 — Instructor will review submitted compensation philosophies - Topic: Compensation planning and Compensation program design
Before Session 3 -- Attendees submit (rewardsystems@sbcglobal.net) questions and more information on Module 2 material. Plus related insights or questions Readings for Sessions 3
SESSION 3 — Instructor will review submitted - Topic: Administrating compensation programs: Evaluating compensation programs.
Recommended Readings: The readings provide a more in-depth discussion of the topics
- Session 1 - Rewarding Performance in Public Sector Organizations and Compensation Philosophy
- Session 2 - Effectively Managing Pay Budgets, Pay Structure and Pay Rates and Public Eye Article: Pay Equity
- Sessions 3 - Recognition as Rewards, Base Pay Management, and Evaluating Rewards Management Systems
Certificate of Attendance: You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.
Making public sector work better®.
Robert Greene, Ph.D.
Consulting Principal
Pontifex Consulting
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.
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Contains 8 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 07/13/2026 at 1:30 PM (EDT)
This class will start on July 13, 2026 and end on July 27, 2026
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.
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: 7/13/2026
- Completion Date: 7/27/2026
- Meeting 1: 7/13/2026 - 1:30 - 2:30 pm ET
- Meeting 2: 7/20/2026 - 1:30 - 2:30 pm ET
- Meeting 3: 7/27/2026 - 1:30 - 2:30 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 Conningham, Ed.D.
Consultant
HabilisGlobal
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.
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Contains 20 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 07/02/2026 at 2:30 PM (EDT)
This class will start on June 30, 2026 and end on September 8, 2026
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 Design:
The course spans ten weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions.
Time Commitment:
Plan for 2 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: 6/30/2026
- Completion Date: 9/8/2026
- Cohort Session 1: 7/2/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 2: 7/17/2026 - 11:00 - 12:30 pm ET
- Cohort Session 3: 7/30/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 4: 8/13/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 5: 8/27/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 6: 9/2/2026 - 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 earned upon course completion.
Making public sector work better®.
Milton J. Perkins, PhD,, SHRM-SCP, SPHR, CF-APMP, CPC
HR Chief Solutions Architect, Educator, Public Speaker
Dr. P has an extensive track record providing insight and overseeing activities related to assessing environments, design, developing, implementing and measuring human capital solutions (talent acquisition, total rewards, performance management, employee engagement/retention, learning & development) aligned with organizational goals and objectives. Most recently he performed these duties as the SVP, ActOne Government Solutions, where he led all efforts for innovative human capital solutions and staffing solutions for
for FED/SLED capture and fulfillment, private-sector, public school, and non-profit clients, worldwide. He is a AI in HR, Workplace Culture, Workforce Planning, HR Strategy, and People Analytics content SME for organizations such as the Society for HR Management (SHRM) and the Public Sector HR Association (PSHRA).
With nearly four decades in the human capital profession, Dr. P has a tremendous wealth of advisory, practical, research, teaching, and consulting experience developing innovative organizational outcomes through people. He has been a CHRO, VP HR, CDO, and Global Talent Management Leader, Talent Acquisition Leader, and is a senior faculty member for SHRM and PSHRA. He has lectured and spoken on various human capital topics (the business of humans, AI in HR, people analytics, HR essentials, HRBP, inclusive workplace culture, HR strategy, bias in the workplace, credible communication for HR, and employee engagement, to name a few), worldwide, at conferences, corporate events, and on podcasts, virtually and in person.
He has a Ph.D. in Management, an MS in Human Resources Management, and a BS in Management & Computer Information Systems. He is certified in the following areas: IAML Employment Law, SHRM-SCP, HRCI-SPHR, CF-APMP, and NAPS-CPC, and he has
SHRM specialty credentials in DEIA, Human Capital Management Qualified Advising, Leading Workplace Investigations, AI, and People Analytics. Kindle Direct Publishing released his upcoming book, ‘Scratching the DARNSCARSS of Diversity’ in April 2024. He is a member of the Kings and Queens of DEI™, and a frequent co-host of various podcast such as, The AppleOne Show.
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Contains 8 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 06/30/2026 at 3:00 PM (EDT)
This class will start on June 30, 2026 and end on July 14, 2026
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)
- Detailed Course Syllabus
- Ethics and Policy Participant Handbook
- Ethical Decision-Making
- Framework-Cheat Sheet
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.
Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):
- Start Date: 6/30/2026
- Completion Date: 7/14/2026
- Meeting 1: 6/30/2026 - 3:00 - 4:00 pm ET
- Meeting 2: 7/7/2026 - 3:00 - 4:00 pm ET
- Meeting 3: 7/14/2026 - 3:00 - 4:00 pm ET
Course Content:
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
Certificate of Attendance: You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.
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. -
Contains 3 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes a Live Web Event on 06/25/2026 at 1:00 PM (EDT)
Structured Interviewing in the Public Sector
Hiring in government requires a delicate balance of efficiency, fairness, and job-related rigor.
Join us on Thursday, June 25th at 1 PM ET, this webinar will provide you with the essential knowledge and practical tools to design and execute structured interviews. You will learn how to use interviews to make better hiring decisions while reducing risk, bias, and bottlenecks.
Speaker: Kyana Beckles, M.P.S., CEO, Leverage Assessments, Inc.
PSHRA® Webinars are a member benefit. Available to non-members for a nominal fee.
Making public sector work better®.
Kyana Beckles
CEO
Leverage Assessments, Inc.
Kyana is a social entrepreneur, and advocates affecting change through implementation. She holds a master’s degree in industrial organizational psychology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, with a specialization in Employee Assessment Development. She got her start in testing developing promotional exams for Police Departments in the DC region. Kyana is the founder of Leverage Assessments. Launched in 2016, Leverage has served many public and private clients, providing pre-employment psychological assessments for public safety candidates.
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Contains 20 Component(s), Includes Credits Includes Multiple Live Events. The next is on 06/23/2026 at 3:00 PM (EDT)
This class will start on June 16, 2026 and end on August 25, 2026
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 Design:
The course spans ten weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions.
Time Commitment:
Plan for 2 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: 6/16/2026
- Completion Date: 8/25/2026
- Cohort Session 1: 6/23/2026 - 3:30 - 4:30 pm ET
- Cohort Session 2: 7/10/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 3: 7/22/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 4: 7/28/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 5: 8/11/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
- Cohort Session 6: 8/20/2026 - 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 earned upon course completion.
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.