Please note that the full program agenda is subject to change as new workshops, presenters and details are added!
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12
8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Coffee Connection
8:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
Welcome
8:45 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Opening Keynote – Mission Possible: Thriving in Chaos
Featuring Steve Cozart, PCC
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Break
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
- WORKSHOP SESSIONS A
Generations in Dialogue: Changing Practice Through Peer Connection
In today’s dynamic workplace, bridging generational divides isn’t just a challenge—it’s a mission. This interactive workshop empowers staff to transform everyday interactions into opportunities for connection, collaboration and growth. By exploring the values, communication styles and strengths of different generations, participants will uncover practical strategies to foster trust, reduce misunderstandings and build inclusive teams that thrive.
Through engaging activities and real-world scenarios, attendees will leave with actionable tools to change practice and transform lives—starting with their own workplace relationships.
Presenter:
Nic Bryant is former director of the Community Services Bureau at the Contra Costa County Employment and Human Services Department. With more than 13 years in the public sector, including nine in leadership, he has served in multiple counties, gaining broad experience navigating diverse organizational environments. Guided by a passion for leadership, service and development, Bryant is dedicated to fostering professional growth and creating personalized learning experiences that meet the evolving needs of the post-COVID-19 workforce.
Mission Possible: Engaging Fathers to Transform Practice and Strengthen Communities
Fathers matter! Their involvement can be a game-changer for children, families and entire communities. This dynamic session dives into the latest research on father engagement and its far-reaching impact.
Through guided reflection, participants will examine how their own experiences with father figures shape their professional lens. The session will wrap up with actionable strategies to foster father-inclusive practices and create more welcoming, "father-friendly" environments within organizations. Come ready to challenge assumptions, share insights and leave with tools to elevate your practice.
Presenter:
Lamar Henderson Jr. is a fatherhood advocate and supervisor with Merced County’s All Dads Matter program. For more than 20 years, he has advanced a countywide model for father engagement recognized at state and federal levels. Henderson facilitates evidence-based parenting programs and trains professionals statewide through UC Davis and Fresno State. A certified ACE Overcomers and Helping Men Recover trainer, he has also served 13 years as chair of Merced County’s Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Commission. A proud father and grandfather, he honors the memory of his late wife, Virginia, with whom he shared 33 years of partnership and parenting.Navigating the Cal-OAR Framework: A CQI Approach to County-Level Planning and Accountability
This interactive training provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the California CalWORKs Outcomes and Accountability Review (Cal-OAR) framework. Designed in the style of a Model United Nations, the course immerses learners in a simulated environment where they assume the roles of county representatives. Participants will work collaboratively to navigate the full Cal-OAR lifecycle, including the County Self-Assessment (CSA) and Systems Improvement Plan (SIP), using fictional counties that reflect real-world challenges and successes. Through guided activities and hands-on exercises, learners will apply human-centered design principles and analyze performance metrics to develop strategic, data-informed solutions that enhance CalWORKs and Welfare-to-Work outcomes.
Presenter:
Jeremy Duval, M.A., is a workforce development specialist with more than 10 years of experience in academic development and social services coordination. He is dedicated to empowering staff and clients within human services to achieve personal and professional growth. Duval specializes in growth mindset, secondary trauma management, Cal-OAR and staff training methodologies. He is committed to equipping professionals with the tools to create meaningful, lasting change for individuals and communities most in need.Understanding Trauma 101: A Starting Point for Transforming Practice
In a world where trauma touches every corner of our communities, understanding its impact is not just important, it's essential. This workshop is designed to empower social services professionals with the foundational knowledge needed to recognize, respond to, and transform the lives of trauma survivors.
This session goes beyond theory, equipping attendees with culturally humble, trauma-informed strategies that support healing and resilience. By fostering awareness and practical skills, this workshop helps professionals shift their practice—making the mission of transforming lives not only possible, but powerful.
Presenter:
Avni Panchal is a licensed clinical social worker with more than 10 years of experience in child welfare and behavioral health. She maintains a private practice offering individual and couples therapy, as well as organizational services including dialogue circles, coaching and consulting. Panchal provides training in trauma-informed practice, mindfulness, safety and risk assessment, fairness and equity, SOGIE, engagement and interviewing, sexual harassment prevention, workplace violence and introductory social services. As a person of color, she is dedicated to decolonizing social work and mental health, promoting multiple pathways to well-being. Panchal also teaches part time in the social work department at San Francisco State University.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 13
8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
- WORKSHOP SESSIONS B
CCUV: Collaboration, Communication, and Uncovering Vulnerability
We are all conditioned by templates, rules and behaviors passed down since birth. This workshop creates space to uncover how communities connect and share vulnerability, often misunderstood as only sadness or loneliness. Through conversation and short activities, participants will explore self-awareness, collaboration and communication while gaining new insights into vulnerability in modern society. Together we will unlearn limiting frames, discover the power of vulnerability as a tool for healing and growth, and strengthen our ability to connect with others.
Presenter:
Anthony Pineda, M.A., explores the intersection of education, mental health, technology and creativity to foster growth and learning. Rooted in hip-hop culture, he believes deeply in the power of knowledge and a growth mindset. As founder of Creatrix Institute, Pineda develops educational and mental health programs that celebrate hip-hop as a vehicle for empowerment and connection. His work advances a new paradigm in education—one that recognizes cultural knowledge and technology as essential tools for transformation and equity.From Practice to Possibility: AI and Human Services in Harmony
In a time of rapid change, human services professionals face the challenge—and opportunity—of integrating technology without losing the heart of their work. This interactive workshop explores how AI can support, not replace, the values of empathy, equity and purpose. Participants will reconnect with their mission, explore practical AI tools for streamlining tasks and engage in hands-on activities that demonstrate how innovation can enhance—not hinder—human connection. Ethical use, cultural responsiveness and human oversight will be central to the discussion, empowering attendees to lead change with confidence and compassion.
Presenter:
Jay David is a staff development specialist for Contra Costa County, where he designs, develops and facilitates training programs for a diverse workforce, utilizing instructional design methodologies, curriculum development strategies and e-learning technologies to enhance professional growth and organizational effectiveness. With more than 20 years of experience in public service and workforce development, David brings a collaborative, learner-focused approach to continuing education. His passion lies in empowering individuals through accessible, high-quality training and advancing equity in professional development.Turning Tension into Teamwork: Practical Conflict Resolution Strategies
Tension is inevitable in any team, but when addressed with intention, it becomes a powerful catalyst for growth and collaboration. In this interactive session, participants will explore a mission-driven approach to handling tough conversations that can transform not only how we work, but how we lead. Through practical tools and a mindset shift, this workshop empowers participants to turn conflict into opportunity and create lasting change in their professional relationships.
Presenter:
Cathy Hoyle, MBA, M.A., brings more than 20 years of leadership development experience from her work with Intel, Blue Shield of California and Adventist Health. Her leadership style promotes a supportive, collaborative environment that encourages growth through open dialogue and peer learning. A skilled coach and facilitator, Hoyle has led more than 200 leadership sessions for professionals at all levels. Known for her compassion and engaging approach, she builds trust and empowers individuals to grow, lead and thrive.Unlocking Impact: Key Updates in Medi-Cal and CalFresh
Join us for a timely and essential workshop exploring the most recent developments in California’s Medi-Cal and CalFresh programs. As the 2025-2026 fiscal year brings significant policy shifts, expanded eligibility and enhanced benefits, this session will equip case managers, program specialists and supervisors with the knowledge they need to navigate and leverage these changes for greater community impact.
Participants will leave with actionable insights, updated resources and a clearer understanding of how these programs are evolving to serve California’s diverse populations better.
Presenter: Dan Witherell has more than 20 years of experience working in human services. Formerly an eligibility worker, supervisor and trainer for the Siskiyou County Department of Human Services, he has trained staff on CalWORKs, CalFresh food stamps, Medi-Cal, CMSP and general assistance, as well as automated eligibility systems, including ISAWS. An instructor for UC Davis' Human Services Programs since 1992, Witherell is the recipient of an Outstanding Service Award for Teaching.
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Break
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
- WORKSHOP SESSIONS C
First Impressions, Lasting Impact: Strategies for Front Office Success
Every customer service interaction holds the power to transform perceptions and build lasting trust. In this interactive workshop, participants will explore how front-facing staff play a pivotal role in shaping the customer experience—and how intentional strategies can turn everyday interactions into opportunities for meaningful impact. By investing in first impressions and embracing the CARE framework, staff can elevate service delivery, foster connection, and contribute to a culture of excellence. Join us to discover how changing practice in customer service can truly transform lives.
Presenter:
Mandi Brum has more than 20 years of experience in health and human services. She has served as a division director, program administrator and administrative analyst, overseeing public assistance, housing and homelessness, and staff development training programs. As an instructor, Brum emphasizes a strengths-based approach and the importance of integrated service delivery. She has developed and facilitated training for diverse audiences and leadership levels, focusing on professional growth and effective leadership. Brum is dedicated to building organizational capacity through collaboration, reflection and continuous learning.From Burnout to Breakthrough: Keeping Your Heart and Head in the Game
In the demanding world of public service, burnout can quietly build—even when we’re driven by purpose and passion. This interactive workshop empowers participants to reconnect with their mission, reframe their relationship with stress, and reignite their resilience. Through guided reflection and peer dialogue, attendees will gain practical tools to sustain their well-being and continue transforming lives through their work. This is more than self-care. It’s mission-critical care.
Presenter:
Catherine Payne is a trainer, facilitator and coach with extensive experience in public service and leadership development. With more than a decade in curriculum design and interactive facilitation, she specializes in social services, executive teaming and employee coaching. Payne is committed to creating engaging learning experiences that foster growth, strengthen teams and equip professionals with the tools to succeed.From Conflict to Connection: Activating ENERGY to Transform How We Work Together
What if the key to transforming conflict wasn’t just about resolution, but about energy? In this highly interactive session, participants will explore how the ENERGY framework (Expansive, Nurturing, Execution, Resilient, Grounded and Yes!) can be used to identify personal triggers, diffuse tension and strengthen collaboration.
By linking the neuroscience behind the SCARF model (Status, Certainty, Autonomy, Relatedness and Fairness) with the ENERGY archetypes, attendees will learn how to minimize emotional threat responses and cultivate psychological safety. You’ll leave with tools to elevate how you engage with clients, colleagues, and yourself—reigniting purpose and transforming the way you serve.
Presenter:
Kimberle Smith Austin, MBA, DTM, QS, is a business strategist, international speaker, bestselling author and business professor with more than 25 years of experience in leadership and organizational development and sales. Known for solving complex challenges and driving transformative change from the boardroom to the classroom, she brings a dynamic, consultative approach to her work. A recognized thought leader, Austin empowers organizations and individuals to achieve measurable growth and reach their next level of success.Level Up Learning: Gamification Strategies for Virtual Engagement
Gamification is a proven strategy to boost motivation, deepen knowledge retention and transform virtual learning into an engaging, learner-centered experience. In this interactive, hands-on workshop, participants will dive into a variety of gamified techniques, including interactive PowerPoint games, tools like Kahoot and Quizizz, branching scenarios, digital leaderboards and micro-challenges.
Attendees will explore how to seamlessly integrate these tools into adult learning environments using platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and learning management systems. Whether you're building new content or refreshing existing training, you’ll leave with practical strategies, ready-to-use templates, and the confidence to create dynamic, gamified experiences that drive participation and performance.
Presenter:
Kelly West-Binning is a dedicated training instructor with over 15 years of experience in health and human services. She specializes in creating and delivering training programs that empower staff to succeed, showcasing proven customer service excellence and leadership in supervisory roles. Known for her friendly, empathetic approach, West-Binning excels in active listening and information exchange. She is skilled in systems like CalSAWS, Microsoft Suite and multimedia tools for virtual and live training. West-Binning has led programs including CalFresh, Medi-Cal, CalWORKs, employment services, clerical and diversity, ACE’s and trauma-informed care, collaborating with experts to enhance staff development.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14
8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
- WORKSHOP SESSIONS D
Challenge Accepted: Finding Strength and Stability in Times of Change
In an ever-changing world where our careers are impacted by many factors other than the reasons we started them, it makes it easier to distort the reasons we chose these paths to begin with. Through the concept of conquering inner narratives, this interactive workshop looks to highlight the purpose of why we chose the path of human services and will lean on thought-provoking discussion prompts and conversation to highlight why we began this journey in the first place. We hope that in our time together, we will be inspired to hear the motivations of our peers and give participants reenergized vocabulary that helps us articulate the purpose underneath why we do the work we do.
Presenter:
Derrin Ford, M.Ed., is a visionary coach and workforce development consultant who serves those in need of clarity and structure for their future professional goals. Inspired and mentored by leaders across several industries, he coaches clients to improve their self-awareness through a technique he calls mastering internal dialogue. With more than 9 years of professional experience (including roles as a career counselor and a workforce development coach & trainer in CWDS), he brings critical thinking and self-awareness strategies into group environments to improve everyone's internal validation and autonomy.Empowering Each Other: Peer Support Strategies for Welfare-to-Work Staff
This hands-on, interactive workshop empowers staff to reignite their sense of purpose and strengthen both personal and team resilience: two key ingredients for transforming the lives of Welfare-to-Work clients. Through reflective exercises, peer support strategies and meaningful dialogue, participants will reconnect with the “why” behind their work and explore how small shifts in mindset and practice can lead to big impacts. Attendees will leave with practical tools to foster a culture of empathy, trust and empowerment, making the mission of changing lives not only possible, but sustainable.
Presenter:
Keisha Stephney is a staff development specialist with Contra Costa County, where she specializes in training employment services frontline staff on both technical policies and essential soft skills—including communication, time management, and customer service. With more than 30 years of experience in social services, she applies her deep knowledge of public assistance programs and a passion for professional development to her work. Known for her engaging, real-world approach, she empowers teams to provide high-quality, client-centered services while promoting equity and accountability.Field Safety for Entering Homeless Encampments
This workshop emphasizes a person-centered, respectful and trauma-informed approach to developing safety plans that protect the well-being of both outreach staff and encampment residents. Participants will explore how effective outreach requires recognizing the unique experiences, needs and preferences of individuals experiencing homelessness and tailoring support accordingly. By examining their own perceptions of homelessness and deepening their understanding of the challenges faced by those who are unsheltered, participants will build greater empathy and insight. This foundation will support more effective outreach efforts that foster safer, stronger and more sustainable outcomes for everyone involved.
Presenter:
Natalie Newson, MBA, is a public assistance leader, mentor and educator with more than 30 years of experience advancing emotional and economic self-sufficiency. As an instructor and facilitator with UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education, she draws on her leadership journey to inspire teams to help individuals define their own success. Newson also serves on the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Stakeholder Council, where she was recognized for outstanding service in 2022.Introduction to Eligibility Programs, CalSAWS and Troubleshooting EDBC
This CalSAWS workshop introduces employees to the Statewide Automated Welfare System (CalSAWS), which manages and delivers various welfare and social services programs across California. We'll provide a comprehensive overview of the system’s functionality, including data entry, case management and reporting tools. Participants will gain hands-on experience with the system, learning to navigate its interface and utilize its features to process and manage client information efficiently.
Presenter:
Stacy Bradford has developed and led training programs for new eligibility workers on topics including CalFresh, CalWORKs, Medi-Cal, CalSAWS, CalHEERS, Welfare to Work, foster care, case management, diverse learning styles and phone communication. She brings more than 17 years of customer service experience, including over eight in eligibility and analyst roles within human services. Bradford’s expertise spans intake, continuing care and foster care eligibility, supporting professionals in building knowledge and confidence to serve clients effectively.
10:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Break
10:30 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
Closing Keynote - Mission Activated: The Power of Purpose, Presence and Possibility
Featuring Laurie Cozart, MCC
11:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks
Autumn Institute for Public Assistance Professionals
Virtual: Nov. 12-14, 2025
Register Online