9:15 AM – 9:20 AM

Welcome from Director Hall

Charles Hall
Director | DC Department of Human Resources

9:30 AM – 10:15 AM

Ice Breaker: Getting to Knowthe HR Community

10:15 AM – 10:45 AM

Fireside Chat: Effective Management During Changing Times

SPECIAL GUEST

10:45 AM – 11:30 AM

Embracing AI in the Workplace: A Panel Discussion with OCTO

Stephen Miller
Director | Office of the Chief Technology Officer

OCTO Team

11:30 AM – 12:15 PM

Artificial Intelligence and Public Employees

Assessments of the impact of artificial intelligence on state and local government tend to focus on use cases and the predicted or actual results in terms of efficiency, effectiveness, or customer service. In this report, MissionSquare Research Institute instead focuses on the public sector employees - how they are using AI, what services they provide, and what concerns they have about how their roles may change.

Gerald Young
MissionSquare

12:15 PM – 1:00 PM

Lunch

1:15 PM – 2:30 PM

Recruitment 101

New to hiring or need a refresher on the fundamentals? This session breaks down the basics of recruitment within the DC Government—from writing effective job postings to navigating the hiring process and selecting top talent. Learn the steps, systems, and strategies that help us attract qualified candidates who are ready to serve the residents of the District. Whether you’re filling one role or building an entire team, this session will equip you with the tools to recruit with confidence, compliance, and impact.
 

Nina Mason
DC Department of Human Resources

1:15 PM – 2:30 PM

Compensation Basics

Need to brush up on your FLSA or setting pay without salary information skills? This is the course for you. During this course participants will learn rules and regulations that govern compensation and test their skills in an interactive game.
 

Darielle Anderson
DC Department of Human Resources

1:15 PM – 2:30 PM

Engaging in a Multi-Generational Workforce

In today’s diverse work environment, managers face the unique challenge of engaging a multi-generational workforce that spans Baby Boomers to Gen Z. This workshop is designed to equip managers with the skills and strategies needed to effectively lead and inspire employees across all age groups, leveraging their unique strengths while fostering a cohesive team dynamic. Participants will explore the distinct values, communication styles, and work preferences of each generation, gaining insight into how these differences impact collaboration and performance. Through interactive discussions and practical exercises, managers will learn to tailor their leadership approaches to meet the diverse needs of their teams, enhancing motivation, productivity, and job satisfaction. The workshop will cover key topics such as bridging generational gaps, addressing common misconceptions, and creating an inclusive work culture that celebrates diversity. Participants will also develop actionable strategies to facilitate intergenerational collaboration and mentorship, empowering employees to share their knowledge and experiences. 
 

Veronica Matthews
Inova

2:30 PM – 2:45 PM

Break-Trail Mix Station

Participants will be able to select various nuts and dry fruit to make their own trial mix.
   

2:45 PM – 4:15 PM

Successfully Posting Vacancy Announcements

A great hire starts with a great job posting. In this hands-on session, we’ll walk through the step-by-step process of creating and posting effective vacancy announcements using PeopleSoft. Learn how to craft clear, compelling job descriptions, select the right posting criteria, and avoid common pitfalls that delay recruitment. Whether you’re new to the system or need a quick refresher, you’ll leave with the tools and confidence to get your announcements live—and attract the right talent for the District.
  

Mable Price and Carmen Ealey-Tate
DC Department of Human Resources

2:45 PM – 4:15 PM

Emotional Intelligence for the HR Community

Technical skills may get the job done, but emotional intelligence gets teams to thrive. In this insightful session, we’ll explore the key components of emotional intelligence—self-awareness, empathy, regulation, and social skills—and how they impact communication, leadership, and collaboration in the workplace. Discover practical ways to strengthen your EQ and create more positive, productive interactions with colleagues at every level. Whether you’re leading a team or supporting one, emotional intelligence is your secret weapon for success.
 

Parris Sims
DC Department of Human Resources

2:45 PM – 4:15 PM

Nurturing a Growth Mindset in Your Team

Managers are pivotal in cultivating a growth mindset within their teams, a mindset that drives both individual and collective success. Research shows that employees with a growth mindset are 34% more likely to take on challenging projects, and they demonstrate a 47% increase in work performance. By fostering a growth mindset, managers empower team members to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and continuously improve. This approach unlocks the full potential of each individual and helps teams work toward shared goals with increased collaboration and creativity. This session will provide managers with the tools and strategies necessary to create an environment that supports continuous learning, innovation, and development. Managers will learn how to shape their team’s mindset, guide them through setbacks, and celebrate successes to maintain momentum. Through effective leadership, teams will be empowered to adapt, grow, and succeed in an ever-evolving workplace.
 

Linda Stroman
Inova

2:45 PM – 4:15 PM

De-escalating Skills: Managing Aggressionin the Workplace

Conflict is a natural part of any workplace, but when it escalates into aggression, it can severely disrupt teamwork, productivity, and organizational morale. Aggressive behavior, ranging from subtle microaggressions to overt outbursts, represents an ineffective and potentially destructive response that requires strategic management. Equipping employees with sophisticated skills to de-escalate aggression—whether from colleagues or external sources like customers—empowers them to handle challenging interactions with remarkable confidence and professional composure. Through assertive communication, emotional regulation, and clear boundary-setting, employees can respond calmly and constructively, helping to defuse tension and prevent misunderstandings. This comprehensive approach not only protects interpersonal relationships but also promotes a respectful, collaborative work environment that values emotional intelligence and professional communication. By teaching these nuanced de-escalation techniques, organizations create a safer, more harmonious workplace where employees are better prepared to manage external challenges and foster positive, productive interactions. 
 

Veronica Matthews
Inova

4:30 PM – 5:30 PM

Mocktails, Wellness, and Fun

The HR Community will be able to network by creating their own mocktails and dancing along with the Soka Tribe.
 

Wunsupona
United Healthcare

Soka Tribe
Aetna

9:15 AM – 9:20 AM
Room

Welcome from Director Hall

Charles Hall
Director | DC Department of Human Resources

9:20 AM – 10:00 AM

Understanding DCHR and Agency Recruitment Responsibilities

An interactive game to understand DCHR versus agency responsibilities.

Uno Izegbu
DC Department of Human Resources

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

HR Best Practices: Tips and Tools from the District HR Community

Lesley Long
Department of Parks and Recreation

Lennie V. Moore
Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services

Noni Olayinka
Department of Energy and Environment

Shawn Winslow
Department of General Services

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Lunch

1:00 PM – 2:15 PM

Informal Conflict Resolution

This training will equip managers and HR with the skills and strategies needed to address and resolve workplace conflicts informally. Participants will learn techniques such as active listening, empathy, and effective problem-solving to manage disputes proactively. Through interactive scenarios and role-playing exercises, managers and HR will practice handling conflicts constructively, fostering a collaborative and harmonious work environment.
 

Jacinda Miller
DC Department of Human Resources

1:00 PM – 2:15 PM

Calming the Anxious Mind

Anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental health challenges, yet many individuals hesitate to seek help due to stigma, misinformation, or a belief that it’s untreatable. Anxiety manifests differently for everyone, with varying symptoms and triggers, but its impact on mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing is significant and far-reaching. This session offers a comprehensive understanding of anxiety, its root causes, and how it affects daily life. Participants will learn actionable strategies to manage anxious thoughts, reduce stress, and regain control. With a focus on self-care, emotional resilience, and calming techniques, attendees will leave equipped to address anxiety effectively and foster a more balanced and fulfilling life. By demystifying anxiety and providing empowering tools, this session helps participants break barriers, seek support, and build lasting emotional strength and confidence.

Veronica Matthews
Inova

1:15 PM – 2:30 PM

Promoting Mental Health at Work

Workers have the opportunity to contribute significantly to mental health awareness and support among their colleagues, complementing the initiatives of their employers. Fostering mental well-being within the workplace requires consistent effort across all organizational levels and throughout the year. Start with this FX Well webinar for positive and supportive workplace practices that can boost employee mental health, company morale, and your bottom line.

Mary Ghali
CareFirst

2:30 PM – 3:45 PM

Expanding Influence through Meaningful Conversations

Having difficulty connecting to your employees and motivating them to do their best? You are not alone. In this course we will discuss strategies to strengthen relationships and connect with employees. Participants will also learn how to effectively have crucial conversations that create alignment, maximize commitment, and ensure wellbeing. 
 

Rodney Jennings and Parris Sims
DC Department of Human Resources

2:30 PM – 3:45 PM

Foundations of Well-being: Building Resilienceand Balance for Everyone

In our busy lives, it’s easy to get caught up in daily demands and forget what truly matters— our wellbeing. It’s not just about avoiding illness or managing stress; it’s about thriving in every aspect of life. True wellbeing encompasses mental and physical health, financial security, strong relationships, and a sense of community. In this engaging session, we’ll dive deep into how these elements interact and influence each other, helping you build a more balanced, resilient, and fulfilling life. Join us as we uncover the keys to flourishing in ways that last.
  

Veronica Matthews
Inova

2:45 PM – 4:15 PM

How to Create a Routine in Chaos

Follow along this presentation that will educate participants on mindfulness techniques and how they can use mindfulness to manage their daily stressors. Afterwards, your instructor will lead you through a mindful activity.
 

Mary Ghali
CareFirst

4:00 PM – 5:00 PM

HR Community Line-Dancing

The HR Community will be able to network by participating in line dancing.

Charita Moore
United Healthcare