On October 9 & 10, 2025, we’re bringing you two energizing days of in-person and virtual sessions designed to inspire fresh ideas, strengthen connections, and help us work smarter together. Through the lens of innovation, team member engagement, and operational excellence, we’ll explore creative solutions, build stronger relationships, and share practical strategies that empower you to thrive in your role and make an even greater impact on those we serve. Here, you’ll find everything you need—event details, speaker bios, agendas, and resources—to make the most of this experience. Because at Augusta Health, your growth fuels our mission.
Plan your Professional Development Day experience! Click here to view the full schedule of sessions, speakers, and events—so you can make the most of every moment.
Meet the voices behind Professional Development Day! Click here to explore our lineup of speakers, read their bios, and get inspired by the experience and passion they bring to each session.
From presentation slides to downloadable guides, this is your go-to spot for the tools, templates, and resources that will keep the learning going long after PD Day wraps up.
Join us on October 9th and 10th, 2025 for a diverse lineup of interactive sessions and classes designed to empower you both personally and professionally. With tracks spanning Innovation, Operational Excellence, and Team Member Engagement, you’ll have the opportunity to learn new skills, explore cutting-edge technologies, and discover strategies to strengthen your impact within Augusta Health.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your technical expertise, refine leadership skills, or build stronger team connections, there’s a session tailored for you. Choose your path, engage with expert speakers, and make the most of your Professional Development Day experience.
Click on any class name below to view detailed information, including the session description, location, and click the link to enroll in HealthStream.
📍 EDU 210
👤 Facilitator: Kathy Hedges
📝 This is a pre-101-level class. Step into the world of Microsoft Excel with ease and confidence! This hands-on beginner-friendly session introduces Excel basics for teammates who’ve never used it before.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Identify Excel’s basic purpose in the workplace
Open and close Excel, navigate workbooks/worksheets
Enter and edit data in cells
Save and name files to folders
Apply basic formatting (fonts, bold, italics)
Explain differences between worksheets and workbooks
Recognize real-life applications for Excel
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 215
👤 Facilitator: Scott Fowler (JMU)
📝 An overview of what Kaizen is, how to run a successful Kaizen, and a review of the typical agendas followed in conducting a Kaizen.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Discover the tremendous power of this rapid improvement tool
Understand how Kaizen fits in an overall Lean initiative
Learn the proper way to conduct a successful Kaizen
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Conference Room C
👤 Facilitator: Phillip St. Ours
📝 This interactive course is structured to guide participants on a transformative journey, starting with self-awareness and expanding to team dynamics. In today's rapidly evolving world, the ability to navigate and lead through change is a critical skill. This course empowers individuals and teams to embrace change, fostering a culture of continuous growth and adaptability.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Recognize personal responses to change
Apply strategies to cultivate a team environment during times of change
Demonstrate skills to guide others through change toward success
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Virtual
👤 Facilitator: John Barlow
📝 Artificial Intelligence is reshaping the way we work — helping us save time, process information more effectively, and focus on higher-value tasks. This course highlights how AI can be used as a practical office and research assistant.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand the role of AI in office productivity and research tasks
Explore AI tools for data analysis, document review, and information management
Recognize benefits and limitations of AI in workflows
Build confidence in applying AI as a supportive tool
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Virtual
👤 Facilitator: Amanda Bubela
📝 This session introduces Augusta Health’s partnership with Capella and Strayer, offering tuition-covered education opportunities. Learn about FlexPath learning, tuition options, and resources for advancing your career.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand Augusta Health’s Capella/Strayer partnership
Explore tuition-covered opportunities and $0 tuition options
Learn how FlexPath works
Identify next steps and resources for enrollment
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 210
👤 Facilitator: Kathy Hedges
📝 This is a 101-level class. Microsoft Excel isn’t just rows and columns. It’s a tool that can make your day-to-day work faster, smarter, and easier. Excel can help you get organized and save time. In this hands-on beginner class, you’ll learn the basic essentials to manage your data with confidence. You’ll practice with real-world examples so you can walk away ready to apply these skills immediately to your role. Come prepared with your computer logon credentials and get ready to build your Excel confidence!
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Open, create, save, and close Excel workbooks
Navigate between worksheets, rows, columns, and cells
Use basic formulas (SUM, AVERAGE) to perform simple calculations
Apply fundamental formatting (bold, italics, font size, cell color)
Insert and delete rows or columns to organize data effectively
Use copy, cut, and paste functions to move or duplicate data
Click HERE to enroll
📍 Virtual/Teams
👤 Facilitator: Alisha Dakon
📝
Ready for a crash course about creating training that helps students successfully process, practice, and perform what they’re taught? Effective education goes beyond just the delivery of information and requires designing experiences for students that supports understanding, application, and retention of the teachings. This session offers a fast-paced, research-informed dive into how people learn (and forget), how to structure engaging instruction, and how to design content that aligns with the principles of multimedia learning in ways that complement the processes of human cognition.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Virtual
👤 Facilitator: Steve Snyder
📝 This interactive session introduces Augusta Health’s workforce development strategy — scholarships, tuition assistance, mentorships, and career pathways.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand Augusta Health’s workforce development programs
Identify tuition assistance and scholarship opportunities
Explore career pathways and in-demand roles
Learn about discounts and benefits from partners
Gain insights to share with family and friends
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 215
👤 Facilitator: Scott Fowler (JMU)
📝 An overview of what an A3 is, the purpose it supports, and the standard format. Includes a team exercise to create an actual A3.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand the role of A3 in project management
Learn proper methods for completing an A3
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 210
👤 Facilitator: Alisha Dakon
📝 Ready to transform data into clarity? Learn advanced Excel skills — pivot tables, slicers, and conditional formatting — using real-world datasets.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Create pivot tables and adjust table views
Add slicers to filter data easily
Summarize status by department using formulas
Apply conditional formatting rules (e.g., red/yellow/green)
Finalize spreadsheets with instructions and formatting
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 210
👤 Facilitator: Dakon
📝 A hands-on MS Teams class focusing on communication, collaboration, and task management. Learn how to customize, collaborate, and co-edit in Teams.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Customize Teams app preferences
Use chat, channels, posts, and files
Communicate effectively in chats and posts
Upload and co-edit shared documents
Engage with planner boards for tasks
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 215–216
👤 Facilitator: Scott Fowler (JMU)
📝 This session explores the origins of Lean, leadership strategies, Waste identification, and Value Stream Mapping.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand Lean from a conceptual perspective
Learn how to lead/manage Lean initiatives
Identify Waste and discover Lean opportunities
📍 ACC 2
👤 Facilitator: Kim Asonevich
📝 Have an idea but struggle to get support? Learn how to present a solid business case that inspires leaders and decision-makers to say “yes.”
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Learn what a business case is and why it matters
Recognize key elements of a persuasive case
Practice structuring and presenting an idea to leaders
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 210
👤 Facilitator: Hedges
📝 PowerPoint is more than slides. It’s a storytelling tool. This beginner session introduces slide design basics to help you build professional and engaging presentations.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Open and navigate PowerPoint
Insert text, images, and shapes into slides
Apply slide design templates
Use transitions and animations for emphasis
Save, share, and present effectively
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Virtual / Teams
👤 Facilitator: Dr. Andrea Leep-Hunderfund
📝 This class explores the unique characteristics, values and communication styles of different generations in the workplace. Learners will gain insights into how generational diversity impacts collaboration, productivity and workplace culture, and learn strategies to foster understanding and teamwork among all age groups.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Mannix
👤 Facilitator: Dove Consulting
📝 Emotional Intelligence (EQ) isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a driver of organizational success. This session focuses on creating a culture that values EQ at every level.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Define emotional intelligence and its workplace impact
Learn strategies for cultivating EQ-based culture
Recognize the link between EQ and organizational performance
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 1
👤 Facilitator: George Neighbors
📝 What makes some teams thrive while others struggle? This interactive session explores trust, communication, and accountability in high-performing teams.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Identify the hallmarks of a high-performing team
Learn strategies for sustaining collaboration and trust
Build accountability and mutual respect within teams
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Mannix
👤 Facilitator: Dove Consulting
📝 Clear mission and vision statements inspire and align. Learn how to build buy-in and rally others around a shared purpose.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Define mission and vision in an organizational context
Explore strategies for gaining team buy-in
Apply tools to communicate mission and vision effectively
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 215
👤 Facilitator: Richard Covington
📝 Feedback doesn’t have to feel awkward. In this evening session, practice giving and receiving feedback that builds trust and growth.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand why feedback is essential for development
Learn frameworks for delivering constructive feedback
Practice receiving feedback with openness and curiosity
Develop confidence in feedback conversations
Click HERE to enroll.
Click on any class name below to view detailed information, including the session description, location, and click the link to enroll in HealthStream.
📍 EDU 215
👤 Facilitator: Scott Fowler (JMU)
📝 An overview of what a Gemba Walk is, how it can be used, and what to look for during one.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Discover the power of Gemba walks in Lean practices
Learn how to conduct an effective Gemba walk
Identify key areas for observation and improvement
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Mannix
👤 Facilitator: Dove Consulting
📝 Prioritization drives productivity. This course equips you with systems and strategies to focus on what matters most and sustain long-term success.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Identify tools for prioritizing daily work
Apply prioritization frameworks to real-world tasks
Build systems for sustaining great results over time
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 1
👤 Facilitator: Jennifer Huffman
📝 Discover time management strategies and productivity hacks designed to help you work smarter, not harder.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Identify common productivity barriers
Apply time management strategies to daily tasks
Explore methods to boost focus and reduce wasted time
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 210
👤 Facilitator: Kathy Hedges
📝 This is a 101-level class. Microsoft Excel isn’t just rows and columns. It’s a tool that can make your day-to-day work faster, smarter, and easier. Excel can help you get organized and save time. In this hands-on beginner class, you’ll learn the basic essentials to manage your data with confidence. You’ll practice with real-world examples so you can walk away ready to apply these skills immediately to your role. Come prepared with your computer logon credentials and get ready to build your Excel confidence!
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Open, create, save, and close Excel workbooks
Navigate between worksheets, rows, columns, and cells
Use basic formulas (SUM, AVERAGE) to perform simple calculations
Apply fundamental formatting (bold, italics, font size, cell color)
Insert and delete rows or columns to organize data effectively
Use copy, cut, and paste functions to move or duplicate data
Click HERE to enroll
📍 Virtual
👤 Facilitator: Emily Forella
📝 This session introduces UKG (UltiPro) hiring manager functions, including posting jobs, reviewing applicants, and making offers.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Navigate UKG platform as a hiring manager
Post job requisitions correctly
Review and move candidates through workflows
Manage approvals and offers
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 3
👤 Facilitator: Cindy Young
📝 Gen Z brings new perspectives and expectations to the workplace. This session explores how to engage, motivate, and retain this generation effectively.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand characteristics and expectations of Gen Z
Explore communication and engagement preferences
Identify strategies for attracting and retaining Gen Z team members
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 2
👤 Facilitator: Jennifer Huffman
📝 With recent changes in student loan forgiveness and repayment plans, this session offers clear guidance to help you navigate repayment successfully.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Learn repayment options available to borrowers
Understand recent forgiveness updates
Identify tools and resources for managing loans
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 215
👤 Facilitator: Scott Fowler (JMU)
📝 An overview of the 5S Lean tool for organizing workspaces, including team exercises.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand each of the 5S steps (Sort, Set in order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain)
Learn the role of 5S in Lean initiatives
Apply 5S to your own workspace
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Conference Room C
👤 Facilitator: Wandi Maseko
📝 Moving from peer to leader can feel overwhelming. This session explores practical tools for managing former peers and stepping into leadership with confidence.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Recognize challenges in moving from peer to leader
Build credibility in a new leadership role
Explore communication strategies to establish authority
Gain tools for navigating tough conversations
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 3
👤 Facilitator: Katie Anderson
📝 Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s vital. This session explores daily practices to support mental and emotional well-being.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Recognize the importance of mental health hygiene
Learn practical self-care strategies
Build a daily self-care plan that fits your lifestyle
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 210
👤 Facilitator: Alisha Dakon
📝 Learn pivot tables, slicers, and formatting tools to transform complex data into actionable insights.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Build pivot tables with confidence
Filter and summarize data with slicers
Apply conditional formatting
Create professional reports
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 1
👤 Facilitator: Jennifer Huffman
📝 Engagement grows when team members feel a sense of ownership. Learn how to inspire accountability and pride in your workplace.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Define “ownership culture”
Identify practices that encourage accountability
Apply tools to build ownership in your team
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Conference Room C
👤 Facilitator: Wandi Maseko
📝 Stress impacts every aspect of life. This session provides practical techniques to manage stress effectively in both professional and personal settings.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Identify causes and signs of stress
Practice stress management tools
Apply strategies for work-life balance
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 210
👤 Facilitator: Alisha Dakon
📝 Hands-on session to unlock the collaboration and communication potential of Microsoft Teams.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Customize Teams for daily workflows
Use chat, posts, and channels effectively
Upload, share, and co-edit documents
Manage tasks through Teams planner boards
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 EDU 215–216
👤 Facilitator: Scott Fowler (JMU)
📝 This advanced Lean session focuses on practical next steps for sustaining improvements, optimizing workflows, and eliminating waste.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Apply Lean concepts to real processes
Learn how to optimize time usage
Identify ongoing opportunities for improvement
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 3
👤 Facilitator: Cindy Young
📝 Learn how communication styles impact team dynamics. Explore DiSC profiles to build stronger relationships and collaboration.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Understand the four DiSC styles
Recognize your own communication tendencies
Adapt communication for better team collaboration
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 Conference Room C
👤 Facilitator: Richard Covington
📝 Engagement isn’t just about satisfaction — it’s about commitment and enthusiasm. This session dives into strategies that strengthen engagement across teams.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Define team member engagement
Explore the drivers of engagement
Apply strategies to increase involvement and satisfaction
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 1
👤 Facilitator: George Neighbors
📝 Resilience helps us thrive through challenges. This session introduces resilience strategies for personal and professional growth.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Define resilience and its benefits
Recognize personal resilience strengths
Apply strategies for building resilience daily
Click HERE to enroll.
📍 ACC 1
👤 Facilitator: George Neighbors
📝 Explore the critical role emotional intelligence plays in leadership and management. Learn how EQ influences decision-making and relationships.
🎯 Learning Objectives:
Define emotional intelligence
Understand why EQ matters for leadership
Build skills to strengthen self-awareness and relationships
Click HERE to enroll.
Our 2025 Professional Development Day brings together a dynamic lineup of speakers from Augusta Health, Blue Ridge Community College, JMU, Atlantic Union Bank, Dove Consulting, and more. These experts are here to share their knowledge, experience, and insights across technology, leadership, innovation, and team engagement. Each session is designed to provide practical strategies and inspiration to help you thrive in your career and elevate the impact you make every day.
Discover their sessions, connect with thought leaders, and learn from the best in healthcare and beyond.
HealthStream Admin & Instructional Designer, AH
Associate Professor of Neurology, Mayo Clinic
Senior Org Development Consultant, Augusta Health
Lead Talent Acquisition Consultant, Augusta Health
Change Management Consultant and Coach, X-Roads Advisory
VP and Solutions Banking Manager, Atlantic Union Bank
Workforce Solutions, Blue Ridge Community College
Organizational Development Consultant, Augusta Health
Business Professional and Educator, BRCC
Performance Improvement Coach, Augusta Health
Admin Director, Team Member Experience, Augusta Health
Director of Operational Excellence, Elevance Health
Director, Workforce Development, Augusta Health
Dove Consulting; Authors, Thought Leaders and Trainers
From presentation slides to downloadable guides, this is your go-to spot for the tools, templates, and resources that will keep the learning going long after PD Day wraps up.