LEARN Conference

"Addressing the Challenges of Parenthood and Professionalism" - #LearnToLiveWell
Presented by Teresa Ethridge, LifeMatters by Empathia
Location: SMSU South, Theater
Maximum Participants: 180
Do you struggle with balancing work and parenting? This session will provide practical tips for improving work-life balance. Content includes:

• Practical strategies for managing time and energy
• Self-care tips
• The importance of being flexible
• Knowing when to seek support

"Ergonomics That Work: Assess, Adjust, Improve" - #LearnToLiveWell
Co-Presented By:
Saul Rodriguez, Environmental Health Safety Professional II, Finance, Technology & Operations
Michael DeSalvio, Director of Environmental Health and Safety, Finance, Technology & Operations
Location: SMSU South, West Skybox 210/211
Maximum Participants: 30
This session guides participants through an Ergonomic Self-Assessment to generate and understand their personal ergo score, including contributing factors and impacts. Attendees will learn proper workstation adjustments, explore do’s and don’ts, and compare supportive versus poor seating. The goal is to show how small changes improve daily comfort and productivity, reinforced through practical examples, and workflow guidance.

"Grow Well, Live Green: A Hands-On Potting Workshop" - #LearnToLiveWell
Presented by Miguel Martin, Energy and Sustainability Manager, Finance, Technology & Operations
Location: SMSU South, Atrium/Courtyard
Maximum Participants: 25
Join us for a relaxing, hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to pot and care for your own succulent while exploring the connection between plants, mindfulness, and sustainable living. Leave with a beautiful creation and simple practices to help you grow well and live green.

"Human Resources 101" - #NavigateCSUSB
Co-Presented By:
Robin Phillips, Vice President - Human Resources & Senior Diversity Officer
Sandra Davis, Director, Payroll & Benefits Services
Diane Maling, Manager, Payroll Services
Julio Arevalo, Director, Employment Services
Jovi Galarza, Manager, Classification & Compensation
Krista Shea, Analyst, Classification & Compensation
Kim Cota, Leave of Absence & ADA Specialist
Kalie King, Associate Director, Compliance and Strategic Initiatives
Location: SMSU South, Fourplex 215/216
Maximum Participants: 50
Human Resources 101 at the LEARN Conference is an engaging and informative session designed to connect HR Liaisons from across divisions and colleges while strengthening collaboration, communication, and confidence in navigating HR processes within their areas. Whether you currently serve as an HR Liaison or simply want a better understanding of how Human Resources supports the university, this session is open to all interested attendees.
During this interactive 50-minute session, participants will gain practical insight into essential HR procedures, process awareness, and business process mapping across key Human Resources functions. Topics include Talent Acquisition, Student Employment, Administrative Services, Employee & Labor Relations, Payroll, Classification & Compensation, and other critical HR operations that support campus success.

Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of HR workflows, helpful resources, and strategies for effectively partnering with Human Resources in their day-to-day roles. This is a valuable opportunity to expand your knowledge,
ask questions, and build stronger connections with colleagues across campus.

"The Power of Coding (and De-Coding) in Communication" - #ConnectBeyond
Presented by Raymond Watts, Interim Vice President - University Advancement & Executive Director, CSUSB Philanthropic Foundation, University Advancement
Location: SMSU South, Fourplex 217/218
Maximum Participants: 50
Using the work of scholar Wilbur Schramm as the foundation, this interactive session will look at the ways we code (and de-code) messages of all sorts. This session will change the way you think about the way you communicate and the way you interpret messages from others.

"Communication That Works: Building Stronger Work Relationships" - #ConnectBeyond
Presented by Dianna Montgomery, Employee & Labor Relations Business Partner, Human Resources
Location: SMSU South, Fourplex 215/216
Maximum Participants: 50
Effective workplace relationships are shaped by everyday interactions. This interactive session focuses on practical communication strategies that support respectful, productive peer-to-peer interactions. We will explore how civility, respect, and intentional communication can build trust, strengthen collaboration, reduce misunderstandings, and improve team dynamics. Participants will walk away with simple, practical tools to handle everyday interactions with more confidence and build stronger workplace relationships.

"From Compliance to Excellence" - #NavigateCSUSB
Presented by Kandy Liu, Executive Director - Audit & Advisory Services, Finance, Technology & Operations 
Location: SMSU South, East Skybox 207/208
Maximum Participants: 30
Fostering a culture of ethics, risk awareness, and continuous improvement
Objectives and learning outcomes: To guide university stakeholders in transitioning from a compliance-driven approach to one that fosters a culture of ethics, risk awareness, and continuous improvement at every level of the institution. The session will focus on practical strategies for embedding these principles into the fabric of university governance, with internal audit playing a key role in driving this cultural shift.

"How to Bring Your Best Self to Work" - #GrowYourImpact
Presented by Teresa Ethridge, LifeMatters by Empathia
Location: SMSU South, Theater
Maximum Participants: 180
This presentation addresses the importance of bringing your best self to work. It emphasizes strategies to enhance job performance, improve relationships and contribute positively to the workforce. Content includes:

• Self-awareness
• Positive mindset
• Work life balance
• Continuous learning
• Building relationships
• Health and Wellness

THE FOLLOWING SESSION HAS BEEN CANCELLED, PLEASE CHOOSE ANOTHER OFFERING:

"Rhythm Reset: A DJ Dance Break for Workplace Wellness" - #LearnToLiveWell
Co-Presented By:
Marisol Johnson, Risk & Compliance Specialist, Finance Technology & Operations
Jorge Chilin, Workers' Compensation Program Manager, Finance Technology & Operations
Location: SMSU South, Event Center C
Maximum Participants: 50
Step away from your desk and onto the dance floor. This high-energy session features a live DJ spinning feel-good music while participants move, groove, and recharge. Through simple, no-pressure dance activities, you'll boost your mood, shake off stress, and reconnect with your energy. No dance skills needed, just show up and have fun.
Note: This session includes physical activity and/or movement. Comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear are strongly encouraged for those planning to participate.

"Utilizing the Content Freshness Report to Keep Your Website Accurate and Up-to-Date" - #NavigateCSUSB
Co-Presented By:
Michael Casadonte, Director of Digital Transformation, Finance Technology & Operations
Brianna Wagner, Web Developer, Finance Technology & Operations
Location: SMSU South, West Skybox 210/211
Maximum Participants: 30
This session will showcase the new Content Freshness Report tool, highlighting how it supports content editors and website owners in maintaining accurate, relevant, and up-to-date web content. Web Services will also offer guidance on evaluating existing pages, including when to remove outdated content or pursue a broader site redesign. In addition, the session will cover strategies for writing clear, concise content that effectively communicates with all audiences. 

"Bring Your Dreams to Life: Aligning Your Work with Passion, Purpose, and Possibility" - #GrowYourImpact
Co-Presented By:
Dr. Kelly Campbell, Vice Provost-Academic Programs, Academic Affairs
Lilly Landeros, Executive Assistant, Academic Affairs 
Location: SMSU South, Fourplex 217/218
Maximum Participants: 50
What did you once dream of becoming, and what still calls to you now? This interactive session invites participants to reconnect with their passions, identify the unique gifts they are meant to share, and explore how those strengths can show up more fully in their current work. Whether through job crafting, professional growth, or a new career path, participants will leave with practical steps to create a more meaningful and fulfilling work life. 

"Grow Well, Live Green: A Hands-On Potting Workshop" (Repeat Session) - #LearnToLiveWell 
Presented by Miguel Martin, Energy and Sustainability Manager, Finance, Technology & Operations
Location: SMSU South, Atrium/Courtyard
Maximum Participants: 25
Join us for a relaxing, hands-on workshop where you’ll learn how to pot and care for your own succulent while exploring the connection between plants, mindfulness, and sustainable living. Leave with a beautiful creation and simple practices to help you grow well and live green.

"It's YOUR Library, too! Unlocking the treasures of the CSUSB Libraries" - #NavigateCSUSB
Presented by Isabel Guzman-Tepper, Librarian, Academic Affairs
Location: SMSU South, West Skybox 210/211
Maximum Participants: 30
Learn about all the wonderful resources for personal development, professional development, lifelong learning, and entertainment that every CSUSB employee has in the CSUSB Libraries. 

"Make it Work – Better: Continuous Improvement for Everyday Campus Processes" - #GrowYourImpact
Co-Presented By:
Pamela Moses, Ph.D., Organizational Change Facilitator, Finance, Technology & Operations
Kandy Liu, Executive Director - Audit & Advisory Services, Finance, Technology & Operations
Gerard Au, Chief Information Officer - Information Technology Services, Finance, Technology & Operations
Chris Bradney, Director - Strategic Technology Initiatives, Finance, Technology & Operations
Location: SMSU South, East Skybox 207/208
Maximum Participants: 30
Campus work is full of processes, some smooth, others frustrating. This session introduces simple, practical strategies from continuous improvement and Lean Six Sigma to help participants see processes with a new lens and make meaningful improvements. Whether participants are new or familiar with Lean Six Sigma, they leave with actionable ideas to improve everyday processes for students, faculty, and staff.

"Unplugging to Recharge" - #ConnectBeyond
Presented by Teresa Ethridge, LifeMatters by Empathia
Location: SMSU South, Theater
Maximum Participants: 180
Social media apps and websites have many positive attributes, such as staying connected with loved ones around the world, kick-starting social movements, and providing an outlet for self-expression. However, is it possible that the time you spend scrolling is having a negative impact on your life? Content includes:

• The psychological impact of being plugged in 24/7
• Strategies to unplug digitally and mentally
• Practical ways to reclaim a sense of work-life balance
• Addressing unhealthy digital habits

"From Desk to Dance Floor: Energize, Connect, and Thrive with Zumba" - #LearnToLiveWell 
Presented By Joselyn Yap, Academic Budget & Planning Lead Analyst, Academic Affairs / Group Fitness Instructor, Student Affairs
Location: SMSU South, Event Center C
Maximum Participants: 50
Show your Coyote spirit and step away from your desk for a fun, high-energy Zumba experience! This engaging wellness session invites faculty and staff to move, connect, and recharge while celebrating the vibrant CSUSB community. Through easy-to-follow dance fitness routines set to upbeat music, participants will boost their energy, relieve stress, and strengthen their commitment to personal well-being. No dance experience is needed—just bring your Coyote pride, positive energy, and enthusiasm as we come together to build wellness, connection, and community at LEARN 2026.
Note: This session includes physical activity and/or movement. Comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear are strongly encouraged for those planning to participate.

"Harassment or Not? Navigating Civil Rights Standards in the CSU" - #NavigateCSUSB
Presented by Steven Vasquez, Executive Director - Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, Human Resources
Location: SMSU South, Fourplex 217/218
Maximum Participants: 50
Not every difficult, upsetting, or inappropriate interaction constitutes harassment under the CSU Nondiscrimination Policy. This session will help attendees better understand when reported conduct may rise to the level of discrimination, harassment, or hostile environment based on a protected status, and when concerns may be more appropriately addressed through other campus resources or workplace/student support processes. Through practical examples and plain-language guidance, participants will learn how to identify key civil rights concepts, avoid common misunderstandings, and make more informed referrals to the appropriate campus office. This session is especially valuable for supervisors, faculty, staff, and others who receive concerns from students or employees and want to respond accurately, supportively, and consistently with CSU standards.

"LEARN in Motion: Spin & Wellness at CSUSB" - #LearnToLiveWell 
Co-Presented By:
Jodi Buckley, Facilities Administrative Services Lead, Finance, Technology & Operations
Christina Rivera, Project Manager - Facilities Planning, Design & Construction, Finance, Technology & Operations
Jasmine Curtis, Fitness Coordinator, Student Affairs
Location: Recreation & Wellness, Room 203
Maximum Participants: 12
In collaboration with the Rec & Wellness Center, this interactive spin session invites staff to explore campus fitness offerings in a fun, supportive, and welcoming environment. Led by a CSUSB staff member and certified Spin Instructor, the session will introduce basic bike setup and mechanics, followed by short, optional ride segments designed for all experience levels. No prior spin experience required just a chance to move, connect, and learn about campus wellness resources.
Note: This session includes physical activity and/or movement. Comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear are strongly encouraged for those planning to participate.

"Optimize: Improving Workplace Efficiency Through Automation and Centralized Services" - #NavigateCSUSB
Co-Presented By:
Tyler Oviatt, Software Developer, Finance, Technology & Operations
Andrew Beechko, Software Developer, Finance, Technology & Operations
Mark Takahashi, Software Developer, Finance, Technology & Operations
Location: SMSU South, Fourplex 215/216
Maximum Participants: 50
This presentation will provide a high-level overview of how Optimize is helping departments improve day to day work by replacing manual, hard to follow processes with centralized and automated workflows. Rather than focusing on the development team’s technical implementation, this session will highlight how technology can support better workplace practices: Including improved organization, clearer communication, faster turnaround times, and more consistent processes across teams. We’ll walk through how Optimize brings together multiple services such as general ticketing, email intake, special request workflows, and custom applications (including access management through General Tickets, CIA, and HR processes like student rehire) into a single, streamlined experience. These tools streamline back and forth communication, simplify approvals, and give departments better visibility into their work. We’ll also share the growth in departments onboarded since go-live and include brief perspectives from campus partners on how Optimize has improved their workflows and reduced administrative overhead.

"Own Your Impact: Cultivating Accountability for Professional and Personal Growth" - #GrowYourImpact
Presented by Teresa Ethridge, LifeMatters by Empathia
Location: SMSU South, Theater
Maximum Participants: 180
This session explores the profound power of personal accountability. Content includes:

• What it means to be accountable
• Actionable techniques to move beyond fault-finding
• Embracing ownership of challenges and successes
• Choices to promote growth