Discover Your Sessions
Explore a range of plenary and breakout sessions designed to inspire, build skills, and increase your professional capacity. Gain best practices and knowledge to better prepare you in serving families and enhancing your impact.
Wednesday, October 16
Thursday, October 17
Unlocking the Light in People - Find Your Place at the Table
opening plenary
BALLROOM
8 – 9:30 AM
Take a seat — you’re invited to sit forward and prepare for an inspiring two-day journey of growth, possibility, and collaboration. Our host, best-selling author and juggler Greg Bennick, will guide us in creating the space we need to explore new ideas, foster wonder, and spark transformative change.
Acclaimed filmmaker and social entrepreneur Brett Culp will captivate with stories that remind us that people are not a problem to be solved but a force to be unleashed. His empowering narratives will challenge us to unlock the light within moments and people, unleashing the inner superhero within us all.
Together, we’ll lay the groundwork for a future where every family in Oklahoma has the opportunity to thrive. Join us as we set the table for Familyhood success, ready to make a lasting impact.
Greg Bennick
Brett Culp
Aligning for Change - Moving Hope into Action for Oklahoma Families
working lunch plenary
BALLROOM
11:15 AM – 1 PM
Aligning our efforts is the key to creating meaningful change for families acrossOklahoma. This plenary brings together state leadership, strategic planning, and personal action to drive impact. Hear from state leaders, including Governor Kevin Stitt and Oklahoma Human Services Director Jeffrey Cartmell, as they outline the broader goals guiding Oklahoma’s future and showcase the agency’s commitment to compassion, excellence, and accountability.
A powerful video will highlight the Familyhood initiative, focusing on the four pillars shaping Oklahoma’s investments in its most vulnerable citizens. Through impactful stage talks and captivating imagery, we’ll explore how our person-centered, research-driven approach is paving pathways for family stability and self-sufficiency.
Thought-leader Taylor Doe will challenge us to reflect on our roles in this strategy, showing how we can use our skills, connections, and resources to create new opportunities for those we serve. This session will take us on a journey from statewide vision to personal responsibility, urging us to align our priorities and actions to build a stronger, more connected Oklahoma.
Greg Bennick
Kevin Stitt
Jeffrey Cartmell
Radhika Cruz
Taylor Doe
Using Lived Experience to Move Research to Practice - The Kathy Edin Book Club
plenary
BALLROOM
3 – 4:45 PM
Explore the transformative power of research in this immersive book club experience led by poverty researcher and author, Kathryn Edin, Ph.D. This session will take you across decades of research that have helped shape Oklahoma Human Services’ strategies and initiatives.
Dr. Edin will walk us through nuggets of insights from her many books focused on family dynamics and economic well-being, highlighting the research findings that have inspired practical action. You’ll also hear from a panel of experts discussing how these concepts have been translated into on-the-ground practices within Oklahoma communities and learn from programs directly informed by her research. Throughout the session, you’ll engage with impactful videos that bring these concepts to life, showcasing real stories from programs implementing her work.
Join us for a thought-provoking journey from research to real-world impact and discover how Dr. Edin’s work continues to nationally shape the field of human services today.
Greg Bennick
Kathryn Edin, Ph.D.
FAM Talks - Powerful Priorities for the Future of Families
morning plenary
BALLROOM
8 – 9:30 AM
Get ready for an engaging, TED Talk-inspired plenary session that pinpoints the pathways to family empowerment. FAM Talks will feature succinct, high-impact presentations from leaders in their field, each delivering a thought-provoking message designed to challenge, inspire, and move us to take action in service of our most vulnerable families. These talks will spotlight key priorities from Oklahoma Human Services, focusing on the critical efforts needed for family stability.
In the space of human services, building adult capabilities is a critical catalyst for success — when adults thrive, so do the children and families in their care. This theory of change, introduced by session host Aly Frei, lays the groundwork for how we can empower individuals and why this strategy is essential for long-term family stability. We’ll explore the ingredients for strong, secure relationships, which provide the foundation for family resilience. The session will also highlight the kinds of support fathers need, emphasizing that positive parental involvement transforms children’s lives. Finally, we’ll address the human side of financial well-being, emphasizing the role of non-judgmental financial skill building in individual and family functioning.Each talk is a spark, encouraging deeper reflection and offering new perspectives for you to experience in depth during afternoon breakout sessions.
Greg Bennick
Aly Frei, MN, RN
Scott Stanley, Ph.D.
Alan-Michael Graves, Ph.D.
Colin Ryan
Familyhood Showdown - Turning Social Connections into Actionable Solutions
working lunch plenary
BALLROOM
11:15 AM – 1 PM
Join us for an engaging, game show-inspired session that transforms learning into a dynamic experience! This interactive session blends competition and collaboration, using formats reminiscent of your favorite TV game shows. You’ll test your knowledge, solve puzzles, and think on your feet.
But this session isn’t just about fun and games. We are thrilled to welcome sociologist and social poverty expert Sarah Halpern-Meekin, who will provide invaluable insights into the often-overlooked aspects of social ties and emotional well-being among low-income families. Her research sheds light on the importance of understanding social poverty, adding depth and context to our collective mission. So, study up, team up, and prepare for a session that promises to be thought-provoking, interactive, and truly impactful!
Greg Bennick
Sarah Halpern-Meekin, Ph.D.
Looking Ahead to Create Lasting Impact - Beyond the Familyhood Training Table
closing plenary
BALLROOM
3 – 4:30 PM
As we gather for the final plenary, we reflect on two days of learning, connection, and growth. This session is not just the end; it’s the launch of a powerful reverberation effect that we will carry into every corner of Oklahoma. Renowned life coach and author Valorie Burton will ignite a call to action, helping us harness the knowledge, skills, and inspiration we’ve gained to create real, transformative change.
Our journey doesn’t end here; it’s about finding resilience, courage, and a positive mindset to drive the work forward. Valorie will serve as a catalyst, empowering each of us to take what we’ve learned and use it as fuel for the impact we wish to see in our communities.
Host Greg Bennick will guide us through starting our own reverberation effect. Together, we will explore how to be a relay of ideas and inspiration, opening the door for lasting connections and support. Get ready for a send-off that leaves you inspired, equipped, and ready to turn this training experience into action for Oklahoma families.
Greg Bennick
Valorie Burton
Wednesday, October 16
Thursday, October 17
Trauma-Informed Care Begins with Us
ROOM 205AB (Capacity: 80)
9:45 – 11 AM
Being trauma-informed has multiple components, foundationaly it begins with our individual well-being and understanding. In this 75-minute session, participants will identify and explore and ADE framework for their self-care and to use when working with/for others (be Aware, Do mindset self-checks, Explore possible sources and approaches) and will also identify some other techniques and tools.
Gwendolyn “Gwen” Downing
Empowering Families: The Role of Tribal Nations in Oklahoma
ROOM 206AB (Capacity: 162)
9:45 – 11 AM
Discover how to connect families you serve with vital support through Tribal TANF and Career Development programs and career development initiatives. Panelists from the Choctaw, Osage, Muscogee (Creek), and Cherokee Nations will share details about their programs, eligibility, and service areas. Gain insights into how these programs foster economic stability by offering flexible options tailored to tribal members. Learn firsthand about their work incentives, cultural activities, and how they complement state TANF services. This session highlights a powerful collaboration to better serve Oklahoma families.
Mark Pendergrass
Denise Honawa
Andrea Kemble
Jamie Hamil
Michele Frazier
Leveraging School-Based Solutions to Benefit Youth and Family Success
ROOM 207AB (Capacity: 100)
9:45 – 11 AM
The saying “Children are our future” is more relevant today than ever. In this session, learn how OKDHS is embedding family-strengthening strategies within schools. Parents, teachers, coaches, and nonprofits each play a key role in a comprehensive approach to family success. Educators teach vital life lessons, while nonprofits funded by the TANF Investment Strategy and other funders offer complementary services during and after school. School-based specialists provide family support, and parents are supported in embracing their role in their children’s success. Discover what’s happening in your community and how these initiatives can benefit your work.
Ron Cox, Ph.D.
Monica Brumnett
Camal Pennington
Holly Hanan
Mastering Your Leadership Voice: Enhancing Communication for Success
ROOM 208A (Capacity: 80)
9:45 – 11 AM
What if understanding the way you and others communicate could transform your approach to leadership? The 5 Voices concept introduces you to five core communication “voices”: Nurturer, Creative, Guardian, Connector, and Pioneer. This engaging session will help you identify your unique style and recognize the voices around you, offering practical strategies to adapt your communication for stronger collaboration. By exploring these voices, you’ll enhance your ability to connect and lead effectively. Join this interactive workshop to gain tools that can immediately improve communication, foster a more harmonious work environment, and drive success within your organization.
Jessica Rimmer
Better Together: The Impact of Co-Location Service Models
ROOM 208B (Capacity: 80)
9:45 – 11 AM
To ensure optimal outcomes in direct service delivery, organizations build dynamic partnerships that amplify their impact. In this session, explore four models where co-locating services is making a real difference for families. See how these approaches create transformative spaces, support renewal, and promote self-sufficiency. Find out how sharing spaces reduces costs, improves access to services, and leverages cross-referrals to address diverse needs, from parenting to financial stability. This session showcases innovative solutions tailored to meet families’ complex challenges.
Rebecca Hayes
Jurhee Miller
Rachel Harris
Becky Porter
Getting Results: Engaging Families Through Effective Recruitment
ROOM 209AB (Capacity: 160)
9:45 – 11 AM
If your organization rolls out programs and participants flock to them effortlessly, that is a fantastic achievement. However, for most of us, it takes a bit more effort. Successful program participation often comes down to strategic recruitment, and nothing is more effective than building strong, healthy relationships with potential participants. Effective recruitment helps you make the right match between what your participants need and the services you provide. This workshop will help you identify and implement key recruitment strategies tailored to your community. You’ll learn not only how to attract the right people but also why
Derrick Sier
Kirk Berry
Lauren Mattox
Understanding the Transformative Power of Co-Regulation
ROOM 301AB (Capacity: 160)
9:45 – 11 AM
Self-regulation — one’s ability to manage thoughts, feelings, and behavior to achieve goals — is linked to virtually every outcome of importance in our lives. Yet vulnerable families and people under stress face experiences and environments that create disproportionate barriers to self-regulation enactment every day. In this session, you’ll explore what it means to be a co-regulator, why you matter, and how to offer co-regulation support through practical strategies you can use right away, both personally and professionally. Adopting a co-regulation mindset in your relationships can transform not only the lives of those you serve, but also your own as well.
Aly Frei, MN, RN
Nick Gunzelman
Harnessing Hope through the Art of Imagination
ROOM 301cd (Capacity: 160)
9:45 – 11 AM
Unlock the transformative power of imagination to inspire new solutions and possibilities in community and family support. This workshop will revisit key concepts of the science of hope, while focusing on skill building around use of the imagination as a core component of not only goal setting, but also in outlining effective strategies to achieve them. Join us to expand your tool kit and enhance your capacity to drive meaningful change in your community.
Amy Emerson
Tammy Williams
Family-Centered Coaching: Guiding Families Toward Hope and Growth
ROOM 302ABC (Capacity: 280)
9:45 – 11 AM
Are you ready to discover new ways to support families in realizing what they hope for by reaching their potential? This session explores Family-Centered Coaching, a powerful approach that focuses on family strengths and aspirations. Learn how to create collaborative environments where families turn dreams into actionable goals. Through practical techniques, you’ll gain four essential skills to foster meaningful conversations that inspire lasting change. Get ready to elevate your coaching and help families take ownership of their journey — one conversation at a time.
David Hartman
Scott Roby
Family-Centered Coaching: Guiding Families Toward Hope and Growth
ROOM 205AB (Capacity: 80)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
Are you ready to discover new ways to support families in realizing what they hope for by reaching their potential? This session explores Family-Centered Coaching, a powerful approach that focuses on family strengths and aspirations. Learn how to create collaborative environments where families turn dreams into actionable goals. Through practical techniques, you’ll gain four essential skills to foster meaningful conversations that inspire lasting change. Get ready to elevate your coaching and help families take ownership of their journey—one conversation at a time.
David Hartman
Scott Roby
The Future of TANF: Oklahoma’s Six-Year Strategic Plan
ROOM 207AB (Capacity: 100)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS) administers Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) as a lifeline to support vulnerable Oklahomans, providing aid to low-income families to ensure children can be cared for at home, reduce dependency through job preparation, and promote stable family structures. This session outlines OKDHS’ evidence-based, six-year TANF Modernization Plan through four pillars: Crisis Support & Family Stability, Self-Sufficiency — Work + Training, Self-Sufficiency — Strong Families, and Collaboration & Supports. Learn how your organization can partner with OKDHS in these comprehensive efforts to support some of Oklahoma’s most vulnerable families.
Deborah Smith
Kendy Cox
GO WIN: Thriving in Home, Hybrid, and Co-Location Work Environments
ROOM 208A (Capacity: 80)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
In today’s changing work landscape, success requires adaptability, whether you’re working from home, co-locating at different desks, or balancing multiple “home” bases. This session is designed to help you thrive in nontraditional work environments, offering practical strategies for staying productive, focused, and connected, no matter where you work. Because success is not a solo act, this session will also connect you with like-minded peers for encouragement, accountability, and feedback, while providing tools to navigate flexible work environments and build a strong foundation for the future. Come join us as we explore the “GO WIN” philosophy and gain helpful strategies for building a supportive community that helps you WIN when it comes to achieving your personal and professional goals.
Heady Coleman
Alisha Jordan
Wearing Many Hats: Navigating Multiple Roles to Support Families
ROOM 208b (Capacity: 80)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
Serving clients involves juggling responsibilities, from staff management and client assessments to ensuring high-quality service delivery and tracking outcomes. Leaders and staff must shift between planning, care, and advocacy to support participants in reaching their goals. This session equips attendees with skills to manage these demands and provide tailored services. Participants will explore program roles, learn to make strategic decisions about when to wear each “hat,” and discover how to prioritize and balance the complexities of navigating multiple roles.
Keith Jossell
Whitney Hollingsworth
Strengthening Families Through Faith-Based and Community Partnerships
ROOM 209aB (Capacity: 160)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
There are many opportunities to collaborate with Oklahoma state government. In this breakout session, the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives (OFBCI) will present an overview of partnerships with key agencies, including the Department of Corrections (DOC), Office of Juvenile Affairs (OJA), Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS), Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), and the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS). You’ll gain insights into successful partnerships, learn about available resources, and discover ways to engage with state-led initiatives. Join us to strengthen collaboration, foster meaningful connections, and build pathways for community impact. Additionally, we’ll explore opportunities through Be A Neighbor (BAN), offering more ways to support Oklahoma communities.
Andrea Stasyszen
Erica Ridgely
Within My Reach: An Oklahoma Model That Has Scaled to National Impact
ROOM 301AB (Capacity: 160)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
At the forefront of helping individuals navigate their most important relationships well to achieve the goals they seek for their lives and families, OKDHS wanted to be sure that the individuals engaged in the TANF program were not left behind. While these kinds of programs have repeatedly proven to be effective in improving outcomes for adults, children, and families, the evidence-based curriculum needed adaptation for these participants. Some had no partner to attend workshops with, others were in on-again-off-again relationships, and still others were in unsafe relationships. Researchers joined with Oklahoma’s TANF staff and local providers to create a new resource, Within My Reach. Since then, this resource has scaled nationally and is widely regarded as a go-to solution. Learn from co-author Galena Rhoades as she provides insights into how you can achieve results for the individuals you serve.
Galena Rhoades
Paulette Kendrick
Implementing Family-Strengthening Programs with Excellence
ROOM 301cd (Capacity: 160)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
Join us for an engaging breakout session focused on implementing Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) principles to enhance our programs for Oklahoma families. This interactive session will equip you with essential implementation tools: program flow diagramming to visualize and streamline processes, customer journey mapping to foster dialogue around client experiences, benchmarking to encourage transparency and shared learning, and CQI practices to promote a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. You’ll collaborate with colleagues, gain valuable insights, and participate in Q&A to address your specific challenges. Together, we’ll explore strategies designed to ensure our programs achieve the highest standards of excellence!
Crystal Buggs
Mollie Lovera
CLICK! Setting a New Standard in Customer Service
ROOM 302abc (Capacity: 280)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
When fans step into the Paycom Arena to watch the OKC Thunder host an NBA game, they are not customers, they are guests. The Thunder’s goal? To treat every fan like an All-Star. Learn more about “CLICK! With Your Guests,” the team’s strategy for training their frontline staff. The CLICK acronym personifies the organization’s key service values: Communicate Courteously, Listen to Learn, Initiate Immediately, Create Connections, and Know Your Stuff. This fun, engaging session will help attendees learn from the pros how to apply these five elements to ensure that you are “clicking” with the families you serve.
Joy Joslin
Pathways to Success: Positive Youth Development in Action
ROOM 204 (Capacity: 80)
9:45 – 11 AM
Research shows the more assets youth have, the less likely they are to lose their way and get into trouble. Youth who succeed in life possess very specific developmental assets, such as a caring community, positive self-esteem, self-restraint, and resistance skills. In this session, you will discover key assets youth need to make positive choices, build healthy relationships, and succeed in life. If you desire to be an asset builder for youth, please come and gain inspiring, practical, and actionable ideas for serving at-promise-youth so they can increase their likelihood of experiencing academic, relational, and employment success.
Seth Osborn
Safety Net Services to Strengthen Families
ROOM 205AB (Capacity: 80)
9:45 – 11 AM
A critical pillar of OKDHS Adult and Family Services’ TANF Plan includes the provision of crisis support and family stability services to vulnerable Oklahomans. Families facing immediate and urgent challenges can access temporary cash assistance, emergency food support, and utility assistance. The agency’s modernization efforts are marked by streamlined processes for certifications and approvals, directly contributing to reduced wait times and ease of access. In this session, presenters will overview what services and supports are available, to whom, and how to support staff, clients, and/or program participants through this important bridge to independence and resilience.
Sondra Shelby
Jerome White
Career Pathways as a Poverty Solution: A Holistic Approach for Families and Communities
ROOM 206AB (Capacity: 160)
9:45 – 11 AM
Join this session to explore how career pathways can be a powerful solution for addressing the root causes of poverty, particularly for families facing economic challenges. Designed for community-based organizations, workforce professionals, and community leaders, this session will provide insights into the role of career pathways in building economic resilience, improving family stability, and fostering community growth. This discussion will focus on collaborative strategies for delivering wraparound services and how to effectively support families on their journey toward upward mobility.
Crystal Buggs
Lee Copeland
Starting Right: Effective Investments for Growing Families
ROOM 207Ab (Capacity: 100)
9:45 – 11 AM
The birth of a child is a critical period of growth for families, and making intentional investments in maternal health and healthy parental relationships is a priority. Much is known about what works well during this time to support new parents. In this session, you’ll hear about evidence-based programming, emerging best practices, and research findings that can inform future approaches. Learn how these innovative solutions provide support for expecting and new parents as they navigate pregnancy, birth, and the early days of parenthood with confidence, building family resilience.
Mendy Spohn
Candice Jackson
Omare Jimmerson
Jessie Purcel
Building Resilient Families: Inspiring Motivation to Change
ROOM 208a (Capacity: 80)
9:45 – 11 AM
Motivation is the cornerstone of effective service delivery, often determining the success of those we support during times of change and uncertainty. In this session, you’ll explore how Motivational Interviewing provides a framework for unlocking motivation and driving transformation. Learn how to assess readiness for change, address resistance, and navigate ambivalence — essential skills when supporting individuals through difficult transitions. This approach equips you to lead empowering conversations that evoke motivation from within. By mastering this method, you’ll enhance your ability to foster growth and unlock potential in those you work with and serve.
David Hartman
Scott Roby
Statewide Supports: Strengthening Families Through Strategic Services and Resources
ROOM 208B (Capacity: 80)
9:45 – 11 AM
Join us for an engaging and interactive breakout session that explores innovative statewide programs that are transforming the support landscape for vulnerable families. These initiatives equip families with resources that foster hope, inspire community, and promote personal growth and stability. The session will educate attendees on the value and purpose of these helpful resources and share pathways for families to access this support on their journey to family flourishing.
Cassandra Twyman
Jessica Waszak
Satoya Williams
Lauren Mattox
Cultural Considerations: Strategies for Serving Diverse Families Effectively
ROOM 209AB (Capacity: 160)
9:45 – 11 AM
Culture is defined as the socially transmitted behavior patterns, institutions, arts, beliefs, values and all other products of human work and thought that are characteristic of a community or population. Culture plays a significant role in shaping the lived experiences of all families. Given its impact on family dynamics, practitioners serving diverse families are intentional and responsive to how each family’s culture might inform their assessments and interventions. In this session, attendees will be presented with insights and first-hand experience from researchers and program leaders that regularly navigate the implications of culture on effective service delivery.
Ron Cox, Ph.D.
Holly Towers
Sang Rem
Armon Perry, Ph.D.
Trauma-Informed Care Begins with Us
ROOM 301ab (Capacity: 160)
9:45 – 11 AM
Being trauma-informed has multiple components, foundationally it begins with our individual well-being and understanding. In this 75-minute session, participants will identify and explore and ADE framework for their self-care and to use when working with/for others (be Aware, Do mindset self-checks, Explore possible sources and approaches) and will also identify some other techniques and tools.
Gwendolyn “Gwen” Downing
Serving Justice-Involved Families: Research-Based Approaches for Stability
ROOM 301Cd (Capacity: 160)
9:45 – 11 AM
As a state with a high incarceration rate, most Oklahomans are impacted by incarceration in some way. Further, on any given day, more than 26,000 Oklahoma children have a parent in prison, potentially contributing to long-term educational, economic, and mental health challenges. Thus, state agencies, justice organizations, and community providers have a critical and unique opportunity to invest in strategies to bring research-based and effective supports to individuals and families. In this session, presenters will highlight various service models for equipping, stabilizing, and empowering Oklahomans. These range from institutional, skill-building approaches to community and family-based re-entry and employment supports.
Lucie Doll
Kris Steele
Erin Engelke
Clint Castleberry
Path to Partnership: Securing Funding and Collaborating for Family Impact
ROOM 302abC (Capacity: 280)
9:45 – 11 AM
Oklahoma Human Services is committed to funding community-based organizations to extend the reach of services statewide. However, many organizations find the idea of partnering with a state agency daunting and are unsure where to start. If you find yourself in that situation and are curious about how to become a state provider to expand service offerings in your community, this session is for you. If you want additional tools and insights to become a more prepared and confident applicant, you’ll also benefit. Presenters will share what you can do today to ensure organizational readiness, provide tips for navigating the procurement process, and offer advice on preparing a competitive application when funding becomes available.
Paulette Kendrick
Kendy Cox
Healthy Relationships
INTENSIVE
ROOM 208AB (Capacity: 160)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
If you want to enhance your ability to offer or refer services that rigorous research has proven to positively impact relationship and parenting quality, this session is for you. You’ll learn about available research-based curricula and how these services can benefit families in your community. Whether offered as a stand-alone program or integrated into existing services, this session provides a pathway to confidently making a positive impact on families.
Scott Stanley, Ph.D.
Scott Roby
Kendy Cox
Fatherhood and Cooperative Parenting
INTENSIVE
ROOM 209AB (Capacity: 160)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
If you were already convinced about the important role that fathers play in the lives of their children, or if this training has increased your commitment to better engage and serve fathers in Oklahoma, then this session is for you. Presenters will expand on the ways we can equip fathers with the support, tools, and skills for strong relationships with their children and their children’s mother. Explore the principles of strong father engagement and gain firsthand insights into the 24/7 Dads and On My Shoulders curricula. As you explore how fathers can unlock self-discovery and build their skills, you’ll see how their increased capacity equips them to take more active roles in the lives of their children.
Alan-Michael Graves, Ph.D.
Armon Perry, Ph.D.
Financial Literacy
INTENSIVE
ROOM 302Abc (Capacity: 280)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
In the FAM Talk Plenary, Colin Ryan emphasized a crucial point: financial education is something few of us receive, yet all of us need. Many Oklahomans face significant financial challenges daily, and building financial knowledge and capability can be a key part of their pathway forward. Explore how understanding the human side of money can lead to financial well-being. You’ll get an overview of the National Financial Educators Council (NFEC) curriculum, experience a sample exercise, and learn how you can help bring this education to your community.
Colin Ryan
Keith Jossell
Rich Batten
Work Ready Oklahoma
INTENSIVE
ROOM 301a-d (Capacity: 320)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
Stable employment and quality jobs are a direct and critical part of any strategy to reduce poverty and enhance economic outcomes. While the state offers many supports to job seekers, Oklahoma Human Services has invested in an additional strategy to help individuals achieve self-sufficiency they seek. Recently launched statewide, Work Ready Oklahoma is now positioned to help some of our most vulnerable Oklahomans gain the skills and confidence needed to secure quality jobs. With 23 sites across 21 counties, true statewide access is available to support people in your community. Learn more about the strategies, curricula, and services provided through Work Ready to build employment hope and secure meaningful jobs for low-wage workers. Most importantly, make a connection so that your families gain this critical support on their path to self-sufficiency.
Work Ready Oklahoma Leadership Team
GO WIN: Thriving in Home, Hybrid, and Co-Location Work Environments
alternative session
ROOM 206aB (Capacity: 80)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
In today’s changing work landscape, success requires adaptability, whether you’re working from home, co-locating at different desks, or balancing multiple “home” bases. This session is designed to help you thrive in nontraditional work environments, offering practical strategies for staying productive, focused, and connected, no matter where you work. Because success is not a solo act, this session will also connect you with like-minded peers for encouragement, accountability, and feedback, while providing tools to navigate flexible work environments and build a strong foundation for the future. Come join us as we explore the “GO WIN” philosophy and gain helpful strategies for building a supportive community that helps you WIN when it comes to achieving your personal and professional goals.
Heady Coleman
Alisha Jordan
Understanding the Transformative Power of Co-Regulation
alternative session
ROOM 207AB (Capacity: 100)
1:15 – 2:30 PM
Self-regulation — one’s ability to manage thoughts, feelings, and behavior to achieve goals — is linked to virtually every outcome of importance in our lives. Yet vulnerable families and people under stress face experiences and environments that create disproportionate barriers to self-regulation enactment every day. In this session, you’ll explore what it means to be a co-regulator, why you matter, and how to offer co-regulation support through practical strategies you can use right away, both personally and professionally. Adopting a co-regulation mindset in your relationships can transform not only the lives of those you serve, but also your own as well.
Aly Frei, MN, RN
Nick Gunzelman