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: 2/10/2026
• Completion Date: 4/21/2026
• Cohort Session 1:  2/19/2026 - 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 2:  2/27/2026 - 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 3:  3/12/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 4:  3/26/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 5:  4/9/2026 - 2:30 - 4:00 pm ET
• Cohort Session 6:  4/16/2026 - 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:  Summary and Wrap-up

Complete Your Course Survey

Print-out Your Certificate of Attendance

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®.

Syllabus:  Strategies for Public Sector Leadership Certificate Program

Start Date: January 27, 2026

End Date:  March 6, 2026

Instructor:  Isabel Godina-Vergara

PSHRA Contact:  Debbie Tankersely-Snook

Welcome:

Welcome to PSHRA's Strategies for Public Sector Leadership. This course will equip you with the necessary tools to shift from a transactional to a strategic role in Public Sector HR by using a competency framework. Your role has evolved beyond merely transactional tasks. Today's HR department in the public sector is pivotal to the agency's success. It involves teaching team building, coaching, conflict resolution, consensus-building, fostering a risk-taking culture, enhancing communication, building trust, and more. 

Course Outcomes:

This comprehensive leadership course is designed for mid- to senior-level public sector HR leaders, providing a solid foundation for success.

To achieve this, the course focuses on the following outcomes:

• Assess the impact of HR and human capital management in the public sector and justify HR programs in the public sector.
• Design programs that align with specific competencies within the PSHRA Competency Model, covering three major modules: Leader, Business Partner, and Change Agent.
• Evaluate personal strengths and weaknesses regarding these competencies and create a plan for your individual professional development as an HR professional using the PSHRA Competency Model.
• Plan professional development in accordance with your personal competencies.

You will finish this course with:

• A solid strategic foundation for success.
• A professional development plan.

Certificate of Attendance:

You will earn a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of the course.

Course Design:

The course spans six weeks and follows a specific timeline with a sequence of lessons and cohort sessions. You will receive details about the dates, times, and locations of cohort sessions. 

Time Commitment:

Plan for 90 minutes for each online lesson to read, complete activities, and prepare for cohort sessions. Individuals have varying learning paces, so it might take more or less time for each person. We recommend completing lessons a day or two before the cohort sessions to allow time for reflection on what you've learned and the development of your plans.

Meetings and Discussions:

• Course Cohort Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access them through your course "Content Tab."
• Course Discussion Board take place in Your Course’s Engage Community – You will access the Engage Community through your course "Content Tab."

Online Cohort Schedule (subject to change):

• Cohort #1 – 1/28/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET
• Cohort #2 – 2/18/2026 – 11:30 am – 1:00 pm ET
• Cohort #3 – 2/25/2026 - 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm ET
• Cohort #4 - 3/04/2026 - 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™.

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.

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™.

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 be equipped with fundamental skills in strategic HR analytics and data storytelling.  The course has been organized into three meetings: 

• The first meeting introduces key concepts such as metrics, analytics, and ROI and guides learners in identifying the “right question” to explore through data. 
• The second meeting focuses on formulating a hypothesis, understanding correlation vs. causation, and structuring an HR analytics project using real-world examples. 
• The final meeting emphasizes communicating analytical findings effectively through storytelling, visualizations, and ROI presentations to influence decision-makers and drive strategic change. 

Learners will gain the skills to use data to solve real HR problems and advocate for impactful interventions. 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

Learners will take a deep dive into effective communication. Participants will learn how to access your current communication reality, understand communication as a system, make improvements using data, and more. Upon completion, you will have the tools to implement effective communication strategies at both the team and agency level. 

Format: 3 Micro-Sessions (60 minutes each)

Learning Objectives

Participants will gain access to and learn how to fill out and implement:

● A communications channel matrix
● A communications stakeholder matrix
● A communications calendar
● The Communications Incident Report and more

Participants will gain tools to create buy-in on their teams by leveraging

● A communications consensus worksheet
● A Creating Clarity exercise for their teams
● Organizational mapping for communication

Course Materials:  A course workbook will be provided.

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:

• Course Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will access your Zoom Meetings from the Contents 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: 2/24/2026
• Completion Date:  3/10/2026
• Course Meeting 1:  2/24/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
• Course Meeting 2:  3/3/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET
• Course Meeting 3:  3/10/2026 - 12:00 - 1:00 pm ET

Certificate of Attendance:

You will earn a Certificate of Completion upon completion of the course.

Cancellation Policy:

Professional Development Cancelation Policy

Recertification Points:  

PSHRA-5 and HRCI-5

Making public sector work better®.

Elizabeth Marion, Founder of Liby Works

Liz Marion is a leadership communication expert and the Founder of Liby Works, where she helps leaders, managers, and public-sector teams communicate what matters most. Drawing from more than a decade of experience in organizational leadership, internal communications systems, and program design, Liz equips agencies with practical, repeatable tools that elevate clarity, alignment, and team performance. 

Liz has spent the past five years researching the KPIs of effective communication and building frameworks—like CommsIQ™ and CommsPulse™—that help organizations measure and improve communication quality. She has trained and coached hundreds of executives, public-sector professionals, and emerging leaders in how to streamline communication, reduce friction, and build trust across diverse teams. 

Her background spans the public, nonprofit, and government-adjacent sectors, including extensive work with military-connected professionals and mission-driven organizations. She specializes in internal communications strategy, leadership presence, team optimization, and adult-learning–driven skill development. 

Liz holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Johns Hopkins University and has delivered programs for agencies, universities, and national-security organizations across the country. Areas of Expertise:

• Internal communication systems
• Leadership communication & presence
• Communication KPIs & assessment
• One-on-one communication coaching & skill development
• High-stakes communication scenarios & message refinement

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 be equipped with fundamental skills in strategic HR analytics and data storytelling.  The course has been organized into three meetings: 

• The first meeting introduces key concepts such as metrics, analytics, and ROI and guides learners in identifying the “right question” to explore through data. 
• The second meeting focuses on formulating a hypothesis, understanding correlation vs. causation, and structuring an HR analytics project using real-world examples. 
• The final meeting emphasizes communicating analytical findings effectively through storytelling, visualizations, and ROI presentations to influence decision-makers and drive strategic change. 

Learners will gain the skills to use data to solve real HR problems and advocate for impactful interventions. 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:

• Course Meetings take place in Zoom Events - Meeting can be accessed using the 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®.

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.

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 be equipped with fundamental skills in strategic HR analytics and data storytelling.  The course has been organized into three meetings: 

• The first meeting introduces key concepts such as metrics, analytics, and ROI and guides learners in identifying the “right question” to explore through data. 
• The second meeting focuses on formulating a hypothesis, understanding correlation vs. causation, and structuring an HR analytics project using real-world examples. 
• The final meeting emphasizes communicating analytical findings effectively through storytelling, visualizations, and ROI presentations to influence decision-makers and drive strategic change. 

Learners will gain the skills to use data to solve real HR problems and advocate for impactful interventions. 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 fast-paced, three-part course introduces foundational concepts in HR analytics and strategic data storytelling. Participants will learn how to identify actionable questions, test hypotheses using HR data, and communicate insights with impact—using visualizations and ROI-focused
storytelling techniques.

Format: 3 Micro-Sessions (60 minutes each)

Audience: Public sector HR professionals, analysts, supervisors, and decision-makers

Learning Objectives

Identify: Analytics concepts, data types, and common HR metrics 
Develop: Hypotheses based on real HR challenges
Analyze: Data using a structured, outcome-oriented approach
Visualize & Communicate: Data-driven stories with clear business value
Apply: Analytics and storytelling to HR decision-making

Session 1: HR (People) Analytics – Getting Started
Duration: 60 minutes
Learning Topics:
- What is HR analytics?
- Qualitative vs. quantitative data
- Key HR metrics (turnover, quality of hire, time-to-fill, etc.)
- Four levels of analytics: descriptive → prescriptive Activity:
“Right Question” Exercise – Identify a pressing HR issue and craft a question that analytics can help solve.
Outcomes:
- Define the purpose and value of people analytics
- Learn how to spot opportunities for data-informed HR decisions

Session 2: Formulating a Hypothesis and Building a Mini Project
Duration: 60 minutes
Learning Topics:
- What is a hypothesis? What makes it testable?
- Determining metrics, interventions, and data needs
- Understanding correlation vs. causation, reliability, and statistical significance
Activity:
Project Planning Exercise – Define a hypothesis, outline an intervention, and identify relevant data and metrics.
Outcomes:
- Draft a mini HR analytics project plan
- Understand how to evaluate data quality and test assumptions

Session 3: Storytelling, Visualization & Application
Duration: 60 minutes
Learning Topics:
- The structure of a compelling data narrative (Setting →Issue → Data → Solution → Success)
- Choosing the right visual (bar charts, scatter plots, heatmaps, etc.)
- Basics of dashboard design
- Communicating ROI and business impact
Activity:
Mini Project Presentations – Present your analytics project using the storytelling structure.
Outcomes:
- Gain confidence in communicating data insights
- Leave with a completed, actionable mini-project plan

Course Materials:  Slide deck with sample dashboards.

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:

• Course Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will receive your Individual Zoom Link before the course starts.

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: 2/6/2026
• Completion Date:  2/20/2026
• Course Meeting 1:  2/6/2026 - 2:00 -3:00 pm ET
• Course Meeting 2:  2/12/2026 - 2:30 - 3:30 pm ET
• Course Meeting 3:  2/20/2026 - 2:00 - 3:00 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®.

Braxton T. Casey, MPA, IPMA-SCP, SHRL

Braxton Casey is the principal consultant of Thrive Management Solutions, LLC, a small business where his staff provides HR training and development, career coaching, and consulting services. He also offers various organizational development services with his 20+ years of Federal HR, Leadership, and Business Operations experience.

Braxton is a proud Fayetteville State University graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Political Science, a Master's in Public Administration, Doctoral studies at George Washington University, and several HR certifications. He is a certified member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Career Coaches, the Association for Training and Development, the Society for Human Resource Management, Harvard Business Analytics, 

Braxton is a graduate of the Harvard Business Analytics Program (HBAP) and the SHRM People Analytics Program.

Braxton's mission is to be a resource for professional transformation and motivation through training, coaching, and consulting.

Please join us on January 22nd at 1:00 pm ET for a dynamic discussion on how to create a work culture of respect.

Culture is determined by the way employees interact and communicate with each other. How people communicate will either empower or hinder your organization’s success. Unfortunately, the worst behaviors tolerated within an organization become culture norms. Creating a culture of respect requires clarity around behavioral expectations and holding people accountable when conduct does not meet expectations. Posting values on the company wall or crafting policies is not enough and fails to create buy-ins.

Build a clear plan for creating clarity around expected behaviors and for securing employee buy-in to uphold expectations. Train your leaders and employees to reframe emotionally charged situations, even when opinions differ or personalities clash. Equip your team with the skills to hold accountable conversations when behaviors cross the line from respect to disrespect. Create a workplace culture where respect is not just a buzzword, but a lived reality that boosts morale, productivity, and overall success.

Learn to:

• Create clarity around behavioral expectations
• Effectively address behaviors that strain working relationships and erode culture
• Increase accountability and ownership
• Build more positive and productive working relationships
• De-escalate conflict and create safety at times when opinions differ
• Discover action steps to create a culture of respect and accountability

Speaker: Lorie Reichel-Howe, Founder, Conversations in the Workplace

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

Making public sector work better®.

Mark your calendar for January 15th at 1:00 pm ET and join us for an informative and engaging webinar led my very own PSHRA President-Elect, Amy C. Blake, PSHRA-SCP, Director of HR & Risk Management, City of Liberty, MO.

We have put together a dynamic panel of thought leaders who will discuss key trends and challenges facing the public sector in 2026. They will share insights, predictions, and best practices for the coming year.

They will also discuss: 

• Top 2026 Public Sector Trends
• The Impact
• Possible Solutions
• A Look to the Future

Moderator:  Amy C. Blake, PSHRA-SCP, PSHRA President and Director of HR & Risk Management, City of Liberty, MO.

Panelists:

• Lisa Boland, Chief Human Resources Officer, Loudon County Public Schools, VA
• Anquilla Henderson, PSHRA-SCP, Chief Human Resources Officer, Clayton County Water Authority, GA
• Patrick Ho, PSHRA-SCP, CCC, Chief Human Resources Officer, Gilmer County Government, GA
• Cassandra Tabor, Chief Human Resources Officer, Metropolitan Council, Saint Paul MN

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

Making public sector work better®.

Welcome!

Thank you for your Power Learning Series registration.  We are so excited you have looked to PSHRA® to help you grow in your career.

The Power Learning Series offers you a new way to grow your skills without the time commitment of a full course. 

In this course learners will explore the foundational components of public sector compensation:  compensation elements and strategy, labor market assessment, and internal equity. Appropriate and fair compensation directly impacts employee attraction, retention, motivation, and productivity. A well-structured compensation system that aligns with the organization’s goals helps maintain fiscal responsibility and promotes fair and equitable pay.

The course will be delivered over 3 weeks with one-hour weekly online meetings.

Recertification Points:  PSHRA-5 and HRCI-Coming Soon!

Don’t hesitate to contact us - PSHRA – Debbie Tankersely-Snook, Associate Director, Member Programs, Membership - meetings@pshra.org.

Making public sector work better®.

Course Syllabus

Course Description

Change is inevitable — but successful change requires intention, understanding, and leadership. This interactive course equips HR professionals and public sector leaders with the tools and confidence to guide their organizations through change with empathy, strategy, and impact. This program explores the psychology, process, and practice of organizational change within government and public service contexts. Participants will engage in real-world case studies, group discussions, and hands-on exercises designed to strengthen HR’s role as a trusted advisor and champion of sustainable transformation

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Understand the fundamentals of organizational change and HR’s role in leading it.
• Identify common challenges and resistance to change and strategies to address them.
• Apply practical frameworks and tools to support successful change initiatives in public sector organizations.
• Strengthen HR’s role as a trusted advisor and change champion.
• Develop actionable steps to apply change management strategies in their own workplace.

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.

Module 1: Foundations of Change Management

• Key Topics:
  • What do you consider a change
  • Why change initiatives fail or succeed
  • HR’s role in change
  • Introduction to different change models
  • Unique challenges in the public sector
• Breakout Groups
  • What role has HR played in changing efforts in your organization (or not)? What worked and what didn’t?

Module 2: Understanding Resistance & Engagement

• Key Topics:
  • Common sources of resistance
  • Psychological impacts of change
  • Tools for diagnosing resistance
• Breakout Groups  
  • Case study: TBD
  • Groups identify root causes of resistance and propose strategies HR could take
  • Share solutions 

Module 3: Communicating & Leading Through Change

• Key Topics:
  • The importance of clear, transparent communication
  • Storytelling and framing change
  • Coaching leaders and other stakeholders to be change advocates
• Mini-Activity:
  • Participants draft a short communication message announcing a change
  • Share with partners and revise
  • Share out with larger group

Module 4: Action Planning & HR as Change Champions

• Key Topics:
  • Embedding change into culture and practice
  • Supporting managers, employees, and leadership alignment
  • Building a toolkit for future change initiatives
• Breakout Groups      

Wrap-Up & Commitments

• Key Takeaways Recap
• Reflection Activity: One action I will take to better support change in my role.
• Resources & Next Steps

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:

• Course Meetings take place in Zoom Events – You will receive your Individual Zoom Link before the course starts.

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).

Course Meeting Session Schedule (subject to change):

• Start Date: 2/4/2026
• Completion Date: 2/18/2026
• Meeting 1:  2/4/2026 - 1:30 - 2:30 PM ET
• Meeting 1:  2/11/2026 - 1:30 - 2:30 PM ET
• Meeting 3:  2/18/2026 - 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®.

Jennifer Fairweather, DBA, PSHRA-SCP, PHR

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.

Join our experts from the Certification Advisory Board on January 29th at 1:00 PM ET for an engaging discussion on how to become PSHRA Certified! This is your chance to learn about PSHRA’s recently updated certification processes, exams and more. Don’t miss this chance gain the tools kick start your own personal journey.

You will learn:

• What’s new about the certification process?
• How you can qualify.
• How to start your certification journey.
• What’s new about the recertification process?

Moderator:

Melanie Ault, PSHRA-SCP, PSHRA Executive Council, PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Chair, DDA Human Resources Inc., Employee Relations Senior Advisor, Carver County, MN

Panelists:

• Kathy Baker, PSHRA-SCP, PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Member, HR Director, City of Columbia, MO
• Emma House, PSHRA-SCP, PSHRA Certification Advisory Board Member, Washington State Chapter President, Director of HR, City of Oak Harbor, WA

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

 
Making public sector work better™.