Webinar: 2024 Trends in Public Sector HR

Mark Van Bruggen will be 2024 PSHRA President.  He has worked at the NJ Civil Service Commission for his entire career. During this time, he has had the pleasure of working with public-sector HR professionals from the smallest beach towns to the largest cities and State agencies in New Jersey.  Mark has worked hard to establish a reputation that is professional and personable – taking the time to understand every situation; consider all the alternatives; seek the advice of colleagues; and respond quickly.  This has led to amazing relationships and friendships with hundreds of public servants and HR colleagues.  His philosophy is to be true to his core beliefs, listen intently to what people say, and work hard to help others attain their goals.

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.

Caring for people is my passion. I am a Human Resources Generalist with 10+ years of technical skills and knowledge of Human Resources Management that include the following core competencies -Leadership Skills that define, defend and support HR functions in mid-to large size agencies. Ability to make timely, well considered decisions. Applies Critical Thinking to makes decisions that are fair, objective, and based on policies, procedures and best practices. Employs Strategic Initiatives that assists in leading organizational change management processes, in Workforce/Succession planning and Talent Acquisition. A Collaborator that understands the value of human resources’ contribution to the organization and can clearly justify and secure human resources staffing needs. An Effective Communicator/Effective listener with others in providing solutions to complex problems. And, uses Interpersonal/Communication Skills to clearly communicates organizational values and builds commitment, engagement and trust, the ability to manage conflicts and provide solutions.

Sheena Schmutz is the Chief Human Resources Officer for Sedgwick County, KS.  This organization serves approximately 3,000 employees.  Sheena strives for a flexible and approachable leadership style that focuses on balancing the needs of employees and providing service to citizens.  She is well rounded in HR principles serving in the public sector for over 18 years.  Sheena graduated from Kansas State University and Wichita State University receiving her MPA and is also IPMA-SCP certified.  Along with being a CHRO, Sheena is married and the mother of two active young children.