| September 27, 2012: |
When Morale Wanes, Remember Why You Became a Public Servant |
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These are turbulent times. We face a plethora of challenges--budget cuts, shrinking workforces, pay freezes, increasing workloads, negative rhetoric about federal employees, their work ethic and their value to the public. Without proper attention to our employees’ morale, we will be hard-pressed to weather the turbulence successfully...
Read what SSA CHCO Dr. Reginald Wells’ perspective is on this topic on Government Executive. |
| September 26, 2012: |
The mobile revolution could transform the next-generation federal workforce |
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Speaking at the Sept. 25 Telework Town Hall meeting organized by Telework Exchange, Buchholz and her fellow panelists discussed how telework should be seen as strategic management tool in the government workspace, particularly in preparing for the next-generation public servants who have different needs and wants... Find the full article by Camille Tuutti on Federal Computer Week |
| September 25, 2012: |
OPM can do more to help close skills gap, says Dodaro |
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One of the primary reasons human capital remains on the Government Accountability Office's "high risk list" is the shortage of workers with specific critical skills, such as network analysis, computer forensics, acquisition and foreign language capabilities, said Gene Dodaro, comptroller general at GAO... Find the full article by Molly Bernhart Walker on Fierce Government |
| September 21, 2012: |
GAO, OPM: IT skills gap remains a critical concern |
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In a Sept. 19 hearing before a Senate subcommittee, John Berry, director of the Office of Personnel Management, and Gene Dodaro, US Comptroller General and head of GAO, addressed the dearth of qualified IT professionals and the challenges in bridging the skills gap... Find the full article by Camille Tuutti on Federal Computer Week |
| September 10, 2012: |
DHS surfing the retirement wave, turns focus to leadership, morale |
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The Homeland Security Department hasn't experienced the retirement wave or had to offer buyouts or early retirements to employees like many other agencies. In fact, it experiences an annual turnover rate of only 1.35 percent for its 240,000 employees. Catherine Emerson, DHS's chief human capital officer, said the bigger challenge instead is ensuring the agency's current employees have the skills to meet existing and future needs… Find Jason Miller’s full article and interview on Fed News Radio |
| August 31, 2012: |
Human resource executives: Tight budgets, brain drain challenge federal workforce |
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With baby boomers hitting retirement age, federal agencies expect challenging years ahead in grooming the next crop of leaders, managing heavier workloads, and attracting skilled professionals to work for the government, according to a recent survey of federal executives... Read Gus G. Sentementes's full article for the The Baltimore Sun |
| August 16, 2012: |
Rah, Rah HRU: Online University Gains Stature With HR Professionals |
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At a time when education costs are soaring and student debt is rising, there's one institution of higher learning that's tuition free for most students and is saving money – lots of it. It's the federal Chief Human Capital Officers' innovative cross-government HR University, which has saved more than $17.6 million in taxpayer dollars since it was launched last year, according to the Office of Personnel Management, the council's partner in HRU… Read Richard Walker’s Full Article on AOL Government |
| August 10, 2012: |
Medina advocates better CHCO communication to stop budget axe |
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Chief human capital officers should formalize how they communicate with Congress and agency leaders about the effects of budget cuts, the Chief Human Capital Officers Council leader said Thursday. In doing so, they can better protect initiatives critical to federal human resources… Read the Full Article by Ruben Gomez on Federal News Radio. |
| August 07, 2012: |
Retirement claims processing picks up speed in July |
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The Office of Personnel Management processed 12,304 new retirement claims in July — the second-highest monthly number this year. That brings the overall backlog of unprocessed retirement claims — a longstanding problem that has plagued OPM for decades — to 44,679 cases last month, a decrease from 61,108 in January… Read the Full Article by Stephen Losey on Federal Times. |
| July 24, 2012: |
FEDtalk Discussion on Employee Performance Management |
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Bill Bransford hosted a roundtable discussion of employee performance management, and how programs like GEAR are helping agencies improve performance management. Kathryn Medina, Executive Director of the CHCO Council, Michael Filler from the National Council on Federal Labor-Management Relations, and Patricia Niehaus and Greg Stanford from the Federal Managers Association. Listen to the full discussion hosted on Federal News Radio’s FEDtalk. |
| July 18, 2012: |
Strayer Honors Medina as Outstanding Alumna |
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CHCO Council Executive Director Kathryn Medina was honored with the title of Outstanding Alumna by Strayer University. She graduated with a BA in businesss administration in 2004. “Each year the university gives out the award to former students who demonstrate community service, as well as post graduate leadership.” Read the full article by Connection Newspapers. |
| July 18, 2012: |
Feds Feed Families Kicks Off at USGS with Reps. Gerry Connolly and Frank Wolf |
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On July 16, the U.S. Geological Survey Kicked Off Feds Feed Families with Reps. Frank R. Wolf (VA-10) and Gerry Connolly (VA-11). Feeding families in need during months when food donations drop and the need increases is the challenge that food banks face every summer. This summer the need is even greater in VA as a result of power outages that caused many people and food banks to lose much of their food. The government-wide food drive is addressing the need locally and around the country. |
| July 17, 2012: |
HR University looks to gain college accreditation for agency training |
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"The Chief Human Capital Officers Council is working to let feds earn college credits for human resources training classes developed by the government..." Read Ruben Gomez’s full article and hear his interview with Executive Director Kathryn Medina on Federal News Radio. |
| July 12, 2012: |
Last Day to Register! HR Strategies for Multi-Generational Federal Workforce |
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Join panelists Jeff Vargas, Nora Gardner, and David Uejio, for a cross-generational interactive panel discussion to explore the dynamics for developing HR strategies that best capitalize on the opportunities presented and cultivating a stronger and more efficient federal workforce for the 21st century. The panel will be held on Friday, July 13 at OPM HQ. Register to chcoc@opm.gov today! |
| June 20, 2012: |
CHCO Executive Director on "The BIG Experience" Radio Talk Show |
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Tune in to News Talk 1450 WOL-AM, Today, June 20, at 10am for a one-on-one interview with CHCO Council Executive Director Kathryn Medina and Blacks In Government’s National President, Mr. J. David Reeves on "The BIG Experience" radio talk show. Topics will include HR University and the cost savings via online training across government. The show will stream live on http://woldcnews.com/ |
| June 15, 2012: |
HRU Receives The TOC Human Capital Management Award |
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On June 12th, the Training Officers Consortium presented HR University with the Human Capital Management Award as part of their Distinguished Service Awards Program. This is the CHCO Council’s third award in two years, honoring the Council and its members for the HR University program. The award was “presented to an individual, team or agency for training and development programs that measurably support and advance an agency's Human Capital Plan and strategic mission, goals and objectives.” |
| June 06, 2012: |
Feds Feed Families 2012 Kickoff! |
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Last summer, Federal employees around the country donated over 5.7 million pounds of food and non-perishable goods for families in need. Food banks around the country continue to face severe shortages of non-perishable items, and summer leaves more children without school nutrition programs. Director John Berry, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes-Norton (D-DC), Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan, and other principals will Kickoff Feds Feed Families 2012 at the Capital Area Food Bank on June 11th. |
| May 31, 2012: |
Support our Veterans at the VA Career Fair in Detroit |
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The Council on Veterans Employment encourages all federal agencies to participate in the VA Veterans Career Fair being held in Detroit June 26 through 28, 2012. This event will try to match talented veterans with positions in the federal government as well as private sector. If you are looking for highly skilled, motivated, and trained individuals who also possess leadership ability, this career fair might be an excellent opportunity to meet some of your staffing requirements. |
| May 21, 2012: |
Flash Mentoring is Back! |
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“Developing Growth Strategies, Learning New Skills” A Flash Mentoring Event for Front Line HR Staff. HR assistants and junior specialists (GS 5 to 11) will have the opportunity to obtain valuable advice and guidance on HR competencies of flexibility, self-management, planning and evaluation. Visit www.HRU.gov for more information and register to HRUniversity@opm.gov |
| May 18, 2012: |
Next Generation of Government Summit |
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GovLoop and Young Government Leaders (YGL) will hold their 3rd Annual Next Generation of Government Summit from July 26-27, 2012 in Washington, DC. This event is focused on the development of current and future Government leaders through skills-based training and extensive networking opportunities. The event is open to all Federal employees and will feature training and workshops in areas such as Public Speaking, Career Management, Leading Innovation, and Problem Solving. |
| May 16, 2012: |
CHCO leaders testify on developing the HR workforce |
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On May 9th, CHCO Council Chair John Berry, VA CHCO John Sepulveda, and Treasury CHCO Anita Blair testified to the Senate Oversight of Government Management subcommittee on the efforts to “Building and Maintaining an Effective Human Resource Workforce in the Federal Government.” |
| May 16, 2012: |
Government Opportunities for Interns and Graduates |
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The government is creating opportunities for interns and graduates to enter the federal workforce with a mission to recruit new faces in VA, the PMF program and the new Pathways program. André Castillo, a PMF, was interviewed on Fed News Radio on his experience entering the federal workforce. |
| May 01, 2012: |
Announcing Feds Feed Families 2012! |
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Director Berry has announced Feds Feed Families 2012! Collections of non-perishable goods are set to start government-wide on June 1st and continue through August 31st! In past years, the generosity of the federal workforce has shined, collecting 8 million pounds. This summer, help the hungry in your community by donating non-perishable goods. CHCOs are asked to appoint chairs and champions to support the effort within each agency. Click on the link to read the memo and find out more. |
| April 18, 2012: |
CHCO Academy 2012 |
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At last week’s Academy, OPM Employee Services’ Jason Thomas presented on Merit System Principles and Prohibited Practices and received overwhelming responses. Attendees discussed the relationship between MSP and Prohibited Personnel Practices. Over 210 attendees participated, representing 20 different agencies. The next Academy will be in June, more information to come. |
| April 11, 2012: |
Symposium on Work Life Effectiveness Registration Deadline Extended |
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Symposium on Work Life Effectiveness, April 16, will educate Federal Program Managers and affinity group representatives on the various workplace flexibilities and family-friendly programs and policies offered by the Government; Network with agency Work Life and Telework Program Managers/Coordinators and collaborate on strategies for how usage of these programs can increase overall recruitment and retention. Register to diversityandinclusion@opm.gov by April 12. |
| April 10, 2012: |
Last day to register for the April CHCO Academy! |
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This two hour Academy session will provide participants with an in depth look at the history of the Merit System Principles and discuss the relationship between MSP and Prohibited Personnel Practices. The instructor will review specific case law examples highlighting MSP and PPP and involve the group in a series of interactive exercises to generate discussion and identify the differences between the two. Please RSVP by 5PM Tuesday, April 10th to CHCOC@opm.gov
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| March 26, 2012: |
Mentoring event serves up career advice in a flash |
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“…agencies recognize the importance of mentoring, said Chief Human Capital Officers Council Executive Director Kathryn Medina. ‘Agencies are looking to send people here to get those intangible pieces of advice that used to be done on the job,’ she said. ‘Today things are just so fast-paced and so busy that leaders find it difficult and challenging on a daily basis to give that feedback to their employees.’" Read the Full Article by Fed News Radio |
| March 20, 2012: |
HR University showing worth, expanding after first year |
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Speed dating inspired HR University's recent "flash mentoring" event at the Patent and Trademark Office's Virginia headquarters. Sure, there are more business suits and less makeup than at the typical dating event, for starters. But the basic idea is the same: to get people out of their typical routines for a quick, fun and easier approach to an often anxiety-laden subject… Read the Full Article and hear the Interviews with Fed News Radio |
| March 15, 2012: |
HRU Flash Mentoring Event |
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HR University and the CHCO Council will host a Flash Mentoring Event on Monday, March 19, 2012. The event will bring federal HR executives, managers and future leaders together to share lessons and strategies for building strategic leadership competencies. The event is also an opportunity for mentees to network with various federal government leaders who possess high levels of experience and are able to provide advice on the positions to which the mentees aspire. |
| March 14, 2012: |
HRU Receives Award for Public Sector Innovation |
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Congratulations to HR University on receiving The Deloitte Public Sector Innovation Award for the 21st Century at the HCMD Awards! HRU was recognized as the program that focuses on innovation in the public sector and meeting government’s most pressing challenges, the award acknowledges innovative yet practical approaches to transforming the way government delivers their services and prepares for the challenges ahead. Thanks to all of the CHCO Council members for all of their hard work! |
| February 27, 2012: |
HR University Nominated for HCMD Awards |
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Congratulations to HR University on its nominations in two categories, “Best Workforce Development Program” and “The Deloitte Public Sector Innovation Award For The 21st Century,” at the 6th Annual HCMD Awards! The HCMD Awards recognize outstanding efforts in advancing and progressing human capital management in the Federal Government. |
| February 21, 2012: |
An Employers’ Guide to Recruiting and Retaining Individuals with Disabilities |
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Find the skilled talent you need to increase productivity in your workplace! Attend this free, one-hour Webinar: Talent Has No Boundaries. Learn about the Workforce Recruitment Program; find out how to use the WRP Website to find talented employees; learn how to provide efficient accommodations at your worksite; hear business success stories that inform and inspire; and get tools and resources to support and advance your employment efforts. February 28, 2012, 1-2p.m. |
| February 07, 2012: |
Making Smart Cuts: Delivering Agency Mission in the New Budget Reality |
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On Wednesday, February 15th, at the Partnership for Public Service, Hear about Building, Shaping and Sustaining the Workforce of the Future. Speakers for the Strategic Leadership Session include: Director John Berry, OPM; Max Stier, Partnership for Public Service; Ron Sanders, Booz Allen Hamilton; and Sean O’Keefe, EADS North America. In the afternoon, OPM is holding a session showcasing best practices, tools and techniques for strategic planning and workforce reduction. |
| January 31, 2012: |
Workforce Recruitment Program: Your Key to Hiring Student Interns and Employees with Disabilities |
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Attend this special forum at USDA on February 7th. Director Berry will provide keynote remarks; Kareem Dale, Special Assistant to the President for Disability Policy will offer welcoming remarks and greetings from President Obama and the White House; and Pasquale "Pat" M. Tamburrino, Jr., Deputy Assistant Secretary for Civilian Personnel Policy and Chief Human Capital Officer (CHCO), U.S. Department of Defense will also speak. |
| January 24, 2012: |
Diversity & Inclusion Webinar and 2 day training |
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OPM’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion is providing opportunities to assist Federal agencies with the development and submission of their Agency-Specific Diversity and Inclusion Strategic Plans: A series of 2-hour webinars for participants who only require a summarized update on the latest subject methodologies and tactics required and a 2 day workshop for participants who desire a more in-depth and comprehensive exposure to the steps and actions Federal agencies need to take. |
| January 24, 2012: |
HRU Home Page Refresh |
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HR University’s home page got a refresh! In an effort to keep the website up to date and user friendly, HR University is constantly working to improve the website. This homepage refresh is making it easier for users to navigate through the site and find what they need. Take a look at hru.gov and let us know what you think! |
| January 13, 2012: |
Hire at the BIG Job Youth Fair |
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Agencies: participate in the Job Youth Fair, co-sponsored by the OPM Chapter of Blacks In Government, Prince George’s Community College, and Prince George’s One Stop Career Center. Bring actual current employment opportunities or planned opportunities for the summer of 2012 and meet students looking for entry-level positions, internships, summer jobs, and opportunities for persons with comprehensive technical backgrounds and experience. Agency registration for the event is free. |
| January 11, 2012: |
Veteran Career Fair and Expo |
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VA is renewing its commitment to better serve Veterans by hosting VA’s first Veteran Career Fair and Expo sponsored by VA for Vets on January 18, 2012. VA for Vets is the Department’s new high-tech, high-touch platform to increase recruitment, retention, and reintegration for Veterans. Attendees will have the opportunity to interview on-site with Hiring Managers from VA and other Federal agencies, to enroll in benefits, and learn about the many services VA and other organizations provide. |
| January 11, 2012: |
Disability Employment Workshop |
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The White House, the U.S. Office of Personal Management, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), and the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) will hold a Disability Employment Workshop on January 12th at the U.S. Department of Labor, Frances Perkins Building. Hear fresh perspectives from private sector employers about their experiences successfully hiring, retaining and developing people with disabilities within their workforces. |