Professional Development Conference

In existence since 2011, Staff Senate’s Professional Development Conference (PDC) is designed to provide quality professional and personal development in a convenient location at no cost. This annual one-day conference is held the Tuesday of spring break with registration open to all university staff members.

PDC aims to:

  • Provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and learning experiences
  • Develop strategies and best practices through collaboration
  • Assist in the professional and personal development of university staff members
  • Encourage staff to connect with others across campus to enhance cooperation and camaraderie

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Tuesday, March 12, 2024
Lowman Student Center

This year’s theme, Champions: Develop Your Playbook for Success, is a call to action and it emphasizes that we are key players in the success of staff at SHSU. The educational sessions will provide you with great information so that you are able to develop a well-crafted playbook that will assist you with navigating the challenges, opportunities, and changes in higher education.

More information on Staff Senate and our conference can be found on the Staff Senate website or you may email us at staffsenate@shsu.edu

  • SCHEDULE
    8:00am – 9:00am
    Check-in/Breakfast
    9:00am – 9:50am
    Opening Session
    10:00am – 10:50am
    Session 1
    11:00am – 11:50am
    Session 2
    12:00pm – 1:30pm
    Keynote/Luncheon
    1:45pm – 2:35pm
    Session 3
    2:45pm – 3:35pm
    Session 4
  • OPENING SESSION

    9:00am – 9:50am

    Champions: Develop Your Playbook For Success
    Presenter: Bobby Williams

    LSC Orange Ballroom

  • SESSION ONE

    10:00am – 10:50am

    Data Driven Decisions

    Presenter(s): Cody Willard

    Location: LSC 230

    Description:

    Data is a tool that can be used to support change within your organization. Using tools supplied by our University, you can take data and use it to make informed decisions regarding everyday functions where slight changes could mean future organizational success.

    Leader’s Guide to Preparing for A Major Transition

    Presenter(s): Cynthia Zinakova

    Location: LSC 241

    Description:

    This session would help managers evaluate and plan for major transitions, either in software or processes, plan activities and prepare a communication plan. Good execution of a planned approach reduces fear, resistance and identifies and empowers change champions to ensure your team moves smoothly to the new normal.

  • SESSION TWO

    11:00am – 11:50am

    Game Plan for Conversation: Crafting Your Playbook for Difficult Talks

    Presenter(s): Joseph Mesa

    Location: LSC 230

    Description:

    Learn to navigate tough conversations with finesse. Discover practical strategies for de-escalation, tailored for Higher Education. Gain a personalized toolkit to defuse tensions, foster understanding, and turn challenging dialogues into opportunities for connection.  

    CTRL+ALT+Elite: Elevating Your Work with AI

    Presenter(s): Sarah Browning

    Location: LSC 241

    Description:

    You're invited into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), where we'll demystify the buzzwords, debunk the myths, and discover how AI can be your secret weapon in your academic work. In this engaging session, we'll explore practical ways you can harness the power of AI to streamline tasks, boost productivity, and unlock your full potential.

    From automating routine processes to enhancing decision-making, we'll delve into real-world examples tailored to the unique challenges faced by university staff. Get ready for a dose of humor and practical insights as we navigate the AI landscape together. Whether you're a seasoned technophile or a self-proclaimed tech-avoider, this session promises to leave you not only informed but inspired to embrace the future of work with a newfound AI ally.

  • KEYNOTE/ LUNCHEON

    12:00pm – 1:30pm

    The Human Touch, More Important than Ever: 4 Keys to Communicating Effectively in Today’s World

     Presenter: Dr. Thibodeaux

    LSC Orange Ballroom

  • SESSION THREE

    1:45pm – 2:35pm

    Automate Your Processes with Low Code

    Presenter(s): Justin Dimmick

    Location: LSC 230

    Description:

    This session will provide an overview of low-code technology, the benefits of automation, and a brief demonstration on how to build a simple low-code application. By the end of the session, attendees will have an understanding of some of the low-code tools available to them and how to get started automating their processes. Attendees do not need previous experience to benefit from this session.  

    Securing Success: Tackling Cybersecurity and Accessibility for a Winning Strategy

    Presenter(s): Steven Frey and Kaylee Hutchison

    Location: LSC 241

    Description:

    Join the Information Security and Compliance office to discover who we are, our mission, and the why behind our dedication to cybersecurity and accessibility in IT. We will dive into the importance of information security, including our new password policy, walk you through the Technology Acquisition Process (TAP) and the significance of security and accessibility in that process, and allow time to engage with our presenter, asking any questions you may have so you leave with the insight to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of information security and technology accessibility.

  • SESSION FOUR

    2:45pm – 3:35pm

    Balancing Work and Cultural Responsibilities: Mental Health Strategies for Well-Being

     Presenter(s): Michelle Castanon, PHD and Tracy Richardson

    Location: LSC 230

    Description:

    This presentation seeks to celebrate and uphold the traditions and cultures within the Chicana/o/x and Latina/o/e/x community. By exploring the balance between work commitments and cultural responsibilities, with a special focus on women of color. We will focus on the critical significance of mental health and well-being. Join us as we discuss strategies for navigating these challenges.

    Winning Strategies to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

    Presenter(s): Michelle Meers and Ryia Dorial Steps

    Location: LSC 241

    Description:

    The session will cover what Impostor Syndrome is and how it manifests itself in work behavior and attitudes. We will then discuss ways to overcome the struggles of the syndrome and strategies for success in career confidence. Career Success Center will highlight the three new functions of the department to provide exceptional services to students, alumni, faculty, staff, and employers.