Click here to download agenda. (next year add link here).
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Early Bird Registration
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Business Partner set-up
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM – ACHRO Admin Academy
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Emerging CHRO Academy and Mock Interviews
1:00 PM – 2:15 PM – Pre-conference Workshops
Brown Act Basics for Rising HR Superstars!
Angelique Cramer, Attorney, Lozano Smith
Mercedes Gutierrez, Vice President of Human Resources/Assistant Superintendent, Cerritos College
This presentation will provide new and advancing HR staff with foundational knowledge regarding the Brown Act open meeting requirements, including discussion of the entities and meetings subject to the Brown Act, public meeting notice and agenda requirements, and the types of topics addressed in open and closed sessions of a public meeting. The presentation will also provide guidance regarding the Brown Act matters commonly handled by HR professionals, including the closed session discussion of personnel matters, open session action requirements, key term reporting requirements for employment agreements, meeting notice and agenda item best practices, publication of Board packet documentation, and addressing alleged violations of the Brown Act. Attendees will gain knowledge of the legal requirements for open meetings and leave with the confidence to know they are sending personnel matters to the Board with all of the components necessary to comply with Brown Act requirements.
Layoffs!!!!!! The Time has Come
Amy Brandt, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Tevon F. Edwards, Associate, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Tammy Few, Vice Chancellor, Human Resources & Employee Relations, Riverside CCD
Andrea Epps, Director of Employee Relations & Diversity Programs, Peralta CCD
Layoffs are among the most difficult challenges HR professionals face, especially in public education where regulations and collective bargaining add complexity. This session, led by seasoned professionals who have successfully navigated the process, will cover layoffs for classified and academic employees, including legal requirements, timelines, bumping rights, and reemployment lists. Learn communication strategies, coordination tips, and how to support impacted employees and leave with the clarity and confidence to manage this sensitive process.
2:15 PM – 2:30 PM – Break – Sponsored by: ACCCA
2:30 PM – 3:45 PM – Women’s Equity and Empowerment Certificate Program
Dr. Yasmin Davidds, Dr. Yasmin Davidds Leadership Institute
Zulema Bastien, Program Manager, Dr. Yasmin Davidds Leadership Institute
The Women’s Equity and Empowerment Certificate Program (WEECP), developed by Dr. Yasmin Davidds and offered through the Dr. Yasmin Davidds Leadership Institute, is a transformative professional development initiative tailored for California Community College faculty, staff, and administrators. Rooted in the principles of Graciously Assertive communication and fully aligned with Vision 2030, the program empowers participants to lead with intentionality across five pillars: self-leadership, self-advocacy, well-being, empowerment, and influence. WEECP creates a safe, inclusive, and culturally responsive space where participants develop values-driven leadership action plans that directly support equity and student success. A unique feature of the program is its integration with GRACE, a customized AI leadership tool designed specifically to guide California Community College employees in real-time communication, reflection, and advocacy using the Graciously Assertive framework. Together, WEECP and GRACE support a community of practice focused on eliminating equity gaps and cultivating a transformative, student-centered learning ecosystem.
Navigating Districts Title 5 Obligations Governing Diversity Hiring Amidst Federal Scrutiny
Alysha Stein-Manes, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Yesnia Z Carrillo, Associate, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Rick von Kolen, Associate Vice President of Human Resources, Long Beach CCD
Recent changes to Supreme Court precedent, Executive Orders, and federal guidance have raised complex questions about how districts can meet their Title 5 obligations and maintain EEO policies grounded in DEIA principles while complying with shifting federal mandates. This workshop will help HR professionals navigate the evolving landscape, understand the implications of legal and policy changes, and explore best practices for addressing complaints, responding to federal inquiries, and fostering inclusive, supportive environments for all employees.
3:45 PM – 4:00 PM – Break – Sponsored by: ACCCA
4:00 PM – 5:00 PM – Welcome New Members and Attendee session!
4:00 PM – 5:15 PM – Best Practices for Managing Investigations and/or Outside Investigators
Barbara Ginsberg, Senior Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Hayley Schwartzkopf, Assistant Superintendent/Vice President, Human Resources, MiraCosta CCD
Whether you are investigating a complaint internally or you retained an outside investigator, the responsibility for compliance with federal and state laws, district policies, and local collective bargaining agreements still lies with the district. In this session, a seasoned CHRO and an attorney-investigator will share best practices for managing the investigation process and investigator, including items to consider, documentation to review/provide, and communication tips to assist you in ensuring timely completion of investigations and meaningful investigation reports.
Become a Startup Superhero for your Faculty/Staff Associations or ERG
Irma Ramos, VC, North Orange County CCD
Flavio Medina-Martin, District Director, Diversity, Culture, and Inclusion, North Orange County CCD
The North Orange County Community College District (NOCCCD) believes Faculty/Staff Associations (FSAs) or ERGs represent a critical intersection of perspectives for our campuses. They can be an exciting and innovative way to build a sense of belonging, community, and inclusivity at your campus. Join the NOCCCD team as they discuss the various FSAs that are currently at their District, the major components of an effective FSA/ERG plan of creating an affinity group, and truly discuss the reason why it is important to have FSAs on your campus.
5:30 PM – 7:00 PM – Welcome and New Member Reception
Sponsored by: Alliant Insurance Services
6:30 PM – 8:30 PM – ACHRO Academy Class Dinner (Invitation only)
7:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Registration
7:00 AM – 7:30 AM – Wellness Walk
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM – CCC Title IX Practitioners Meet-Up on *New* Systemwide Model Policy
Brett Sokolow, Chair of the Board, TNG Solutions and ATIXA
Brittany Grice, Vice President of Human Resources, Glendale CCD
After a legislative Call to Action for civil rights program reforms at our institutions, the Chancellor’s Office engaged TNG Consulting to lead the research and development of the draft of what would be the system’s first ever model Title IX policy. We know you must be exhausted by the constant changes in this arena, but we need your input, so grab your coffee and let’s chat! The full draft will be made available to attendees.
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Business Partner Area
8:30 AM – 9:15 AM – Breakfast and President’s Welcome
Sponsored by: Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
9:15 AM – 10:00 AM – General Session: People Power—¡Sí Se Puede!: Equity-Minded Leadership at All Levels
Dr. Cynthia Olivo, President, Fullerton College
With 28 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Cynthia Olivo will share her compelling journey of social justice —from the granddaughter of migrant farmworkers to President of Fullerton College. As a third-generation Chicana, first-generation college graduate, and daughter of a single mother, her lived experience deeply inform her student-centered and equity-driven leadership style.
In this general session, Dr. Olivo will spotlight the critical role Human Resources professionals play in dismantling systemic barriers, addressing structural inequalities, and ensuring students remain at the heart of every decision. She will also explore how HR practitioners can partner with leaders at all levels to fully understand the diverse needs of both employees and students, and how to embed equity-minded hiring and retention practices at an institution.
Inspired by Dolores Huerta’s rallying cry of “¡Sí Se Puede!”, Dr. Olivo will remind attendees that real transformation comes from collective strength:
Who’s got the power? We’ve got the power! What kind of power? People Power!
That’s the heart—the corazón—of Human Resources: an unwavering belief in the power of people to transform, to succeed, and to create the conditions where social justice can truly flourish.
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM – Break – Sponsored by: ASCIP
10:15 AM – 11:30 AM – Strategies for Boosting Employee Morale, Engagement, and Productivity
Barbara Ginsberg, Senior Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud and Romo
Crystal McCutcheon, Director, Employee Relations and Compliance, Coast CCD
Hayley Schwartzkopf, Vice President, Human Resources, Mira Costa College
Job satisfaction leads to greater employee retention, which is goal for every community college. Learn strategies for boosting employee morale, engagement, and productivity in the workplace.
What Ya Gonna Do When They Come for You? How Not to Freak Out When You’re the Subject of an Investigation
Amy Brandt, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Eileen O’Hare Anderson, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Julianna D. Mosier, Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, State Center CCD
Being the subject of a workplace investigation or litigation is stressful especially when you are the one under scrutiny. It’s important to know what to expect and how to respond with professionalism and composure. This is a safe, supportive, and informative session with real talk, practical advice, and a dash of humor because even serious topics are easier to manage when we breathe and prepare.
Supporting Our Unsung Heroes: Updates from the CCCCO’s Gender Equity Workgroup
Brittany Grice, Vice President of Human Resources, Glendale CC
Ellen Cesaretti-Monroy, Senior Consultant, CA Assembly’s Committee on Higher Education
Interested in helping shape state policy? Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the latest developments in passed and proposed legislation impacting our civil rights/Title IX work, as well as the legal protections in place for our students and employees. Learn how we got here, then weigh in on how these legal reforms influence HR operations at your own college.
Are Non-Bargaining Unit Employees Your Kryptonite?
Randy Erickson, Principal Attorney, McDougal Boehmer Foley Lyon Mitchell & Erickson
Cindy Vyskocil, Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, South Orange County CCD
Emily Morissette, Senior Associate, McDougal Boehmer Foley Lyon Mitchell & Erickson
Chris Adrian, Human Resources Operations Supervisor, South Orange County CCD
Non-bargaining unit employees (NBUs) include substitutes, short-term employees, part-time playground positions, apprentices, and student workers, but the rules of how and when to use them are complex. The danger in inappropriately using NBUs is that they could potentially be made a permanent classified employee. In this session we will demystify how and when to use NBUs to avoid them becoming permanent classified employees.
11:30 AM – 11:45 AM – Break
11:45 AM – 12:45 PM – Lunch and General Membership Meeting
Join us for the General Membership Meeting followed by a presentation in honor of Ron Cataraha, a colleague, dear friend and founding member of ACHRO.
Sponsored by: Keenan
12:45 PM – 1:00 PM – Break
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM – Town Hall – Legal Eagles
Eileen-O’Hare Anderson, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Amy Brandt, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Pilar Morin, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Alysha Stein-Manes, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Do you have questions? Well, we’ve got answers. Come get your questions answered while learning how to deal with legal issues important to your District. Community College Districts deal with a number of issues on a daily basis and it’s best to be prepared. Share your questions with others who probably have the same problems, concerns, and issues. This is a great opportunity to get some great legal answers – without those pesky billable hours!
Focus Strands:
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM – Dedicated Break with Business Partners – Sponsored by: American Fidelity
2:30 PM – 3:45 PM – The ABC’s of AI for HR Professionals
Alysha Stein-Mane, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Tevon F. Edwards, Associate, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Tammy Few, Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, Riverside CCD
Generative AI tools like ChatGPT are rapidly entering the workplace and community college districts are no exception. But with innovation comes responsibility. The rise of AI presents urgent questions about bias and discrimination, data privacy under FERPA and similar laws, bargaining obligations, and other legal concerns. This session offers a strategic overview of how HR can both harness AI’s potential to enhance their own effectiveness and lead their districts through responsible and strategic AI integration
ACHRO Leadership Academy Info Session
Tre’Shawn Hall-Baker, Dean of HR, Santa Monica College
Lauren Elan Helsper, Vice President, Human Resources, Antelope Valley College
Mercedes Gutierrez, Vice President, Human Resources, Cerritos College
Angela Hoyt, Vice President, Human Resources, Cabrillo College
Introduction to the ACHRO Leadership Academies to promote participation to gain leadership and Professional Development.
Up, Up, and Away: Avoiding Conflicts of Interest
Randy Erickson, Principal Attorney, McDougal Boehmer Foley Lyon Mitchell & Erickson
Eric Ramones, Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, West Valley Mission CCD
This presentation provides a guide to avoiding conflicts of interest, including prohibited agreements and District actions involving an interested Board Member or Administrator. It focuses on legal standards regulating Board Member and Administrator conflicts regarding District contracts and financial transactions. The presentation discusses procedures for an interested Board Member or Administrator to abstain from participating in a District decision involving a conflicting financial interest and best practices for avoiding actual and apparent conflicts of interest.
The Part-Time Faculty Paradox
Diane Fiero, Vice Chancellor of Human Resources, Coast CCD
Sharon Ormond, Attorney, AALRR
During the past few years, we have seen the Part-time Faculty employment situation evolve and become exceedingly more complex. Whether you were a named district in a lawsuit or simply sitting on the sidelines and waiting for the outcome, this topic has implications for the very foundation of our understanding of how we pay Part-time Faculty, institutional financial stability, bargaining of future agreements, health and welfare, STRS contributions, and much more. Please join us for an engaging session as we discussed the evolution of this constantly changing topic.
3:45 PM – 4:00 PM – Break
4:00 PM – 5:15 PM – Immigration Enforcement Order Responses
Emily Morisette, Senior Associate, McDougal Boehmer Foley Lyon Mitchell & Erickson
Cindy Vyskocil, Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, South Orange County CCD
Kim Widde, Executive Director, Human Resources, South Orange County CCD
In this presentation, you will learn the recent changes to immigration regulations affecting schools and learn recommended responses to authority enforcement of immigration law on campus property. You’ll become a superhero as you learn the recommended responses to the authorities request for student employee records, and about warrants, subpoenas, and court orders.
Superpower Strategies for Arbitration Success
Aaron O’Donnell, Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Sokha Song, Vice President of Human Resources, Mt. San Antonio College
Arbitration is a powerful tool for resolving disputes, but success requires preparation, precision, and strategic thinking. In this session, discover the superpower strategies behind effective arbitration advocacy. We’ll walk through the arbitration process from start to finish, covering key topics such as case preparation, selecting arbitrators, presenting evidence, managing witnesses, and crafting persuasive arguments. Whether you’re new to arbitration or looking to sharpen your skills, you’ll leave equipped to Rise Up! with confidence and achieve positive outcomes for your organization.
Strengthening Accountability: Understanding California’s New Title IX Related Legislative Reforms
Pilar Morin, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Gabriella Kamran, Associate, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Andrea Barrera Ingley, Interim Associate Vice Chancellor of Human Resources District Title IX Administrator, Ventura County CCD
Ryan Wilson, Director, EEO, Title IX & Leaves Administrator, Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, MT. San Antonio College
This workshop provides an overview of California’s recent Title IX-related legislation. Participants will explore new requirements under bills such as AB 810, AB 1905, AB 2048, and others, covering topics from employee disclosure and retreat rights to campus-wide reforms, audits, and student training mandates. The session also addresses AB 1575, which expands student adviser rights when students are respondents.
Bridging the Gap: Uniting Statewide Equity Resources with the Local Initiatives through the Vision Resource Center
Liz Avila-Delgado, Engagement Specialist, FCCC Vision Resource Center
Matthew Grills, Ambassador, FCCC Vision Resource Center
Vicky Valle, Ambassador, FCCC Vision Resource Center
Across the state, California community college professionals utilize the Vision Resource Center to streamline compliance reporting, monitor professional learning, onboard new employees, and access expertly curated resources. In this interactive presentation, district human resource and professional development leaders will share how they’ve used this free statewide tool to improve their workflows, create continuity in record keeping, and deploy compliance training all while staying connected to Chancellor’s Office initiatives.
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM – Registration
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM – Business Partner Area
8:00 AM – 8:30 AM – Breakfast and Housekeeping Notes
Join us for a delicious breakfast buffet. We will also hear from Susan Bray, Executive Director of ACCCA, who will discuss ACHRO and ACCCA partnering on the annual salary survey.
Sponsored by: MCDOUGAL BOEHMER FOLEY LYON MITCHELL & ERICKSON and Vision Resource Center
8:15 AM – 8:30 AM – ACHRO/ACCCA Salary survey
Susan Bray, Executive Director, ACCCA
8:30 AM – 9:45 AM – Keynote Speaker
Dr. Alberto J. Román, Chancellor, Los Angeles Community College District
The Power Within: Rising From Classified Beginnings to Chancellor
Chancellor Alberto J. Román’s journey as an immigrant and first-generation college graduate to now leading the largest community college district in the nation is a powerful reminder of what it means to lead with purpose, perseverance, and heart. With a background in human resources and deep roots in the communities he now serves, Dr. Roman understands the vital role HR professionals play — as advocates, problem-solvers, and champions of both policy and people. In this keynote, Dr. Román will reflect on the personal and professional power within each of us to overcome barriers, shape institutions, and lead with integrity. He will also share practical steps and insights that HR professionals at all levels can use to strengthen their impact, build trust, and support a thriving workplace culture. Above all, he will remind us that no matter our title or task, we must always remember our mission — our students.
9:45 AM – 10:00 AM – Break – Sponsored by: Schools First Federal Credit Union
10:00 AM – 11:15 AM – Due Process Meets Due Diligence: Evaluations That Stick
Michael Travis, Partner, Best Best & Krieger LLP
Mercedes Gutierrez, Vice President, Human Resources, Cerritos CCD
This session offers practical guidance on navigating negotiated timelines, using evaluations effectively, and understanding how performance reviews intersect with discipline procedures. From timelines to due process, learn how to keep evaluations fair, defensible, and contract compliant without losing sight of employee development.
Retirement Planning 101
Daniel Christofferson, TPA Relationship Specialist, Schools First Plans Administration
Dr. Hiacynth Martinez, Vice President, Human Resources, Compton College
Join us for an informative and practical workshop designed to help California school employees better understand voluntary retirement savings options, specifically the 403(b) and 457(b) plans. Whether you are planning for your own future or looking to assist your coworkers in making informed decisions, this session will equip you with valuable knowledge about how these accounts work, how they complement your CalSTRS or CalPERS pension, and the benefits of early and consistent saving.
We’ll cover topics such as:
The workshop is ideal for anyone interested in taking control of their financial future or serving as a knowledgeable resource for colleagues. No prior financial expertise is required, just a desire to learn and grow.
Workplace Violence Restraining Orders: A Critical Tool for Campus Safety
Alysha Stein-Mane, Presenter, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Gabriella Kamran, Associate, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Kristin Olson, Esq., Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, Rancho Santiago CCD
Workplace violence isn’t just a headline, it’s a real concern across California’s Community College districts. This advanced session guides seasoned HR professionals on using Workplace Violence Restraining Orders to protect employees from threats, violence, and harassment.
Learn when to file a WVRO, how to gather evidence, and coordinate with legal counsel, campus safety, law enforcement, and Student Services. We’ll also explore how WVROs support your district’s broader workplace violence prevention and response strategies.
The ABCs of ADA Accommodation, Disability Discrimination, and the Interactive Process
Angelique Kramer, Attorney, Lozano Smith
Julie Kossick, Associate Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, North Orange CCD
This presentation will provide new and advancing HR professionals with an in-depth look at the districts legal obligations related to ADA compliance, employee accommodation, engaging in the interactive process, and responding to disability discrimination complaints. In addition to covering obligations under state and federal law, the presentation will discuss accommodation and interactive process best practices and provide tips for avoiding common pitfalls that can create liability for disability discrimination. Attendees will learn when District accommodation action or additional information is needed; how to complete interactive process steps, including suggesting and evaluating accommodation options; how and why to maintain documentation of the districts compliance with legal requirements; and tips on how to review HR policies and practices for potential disability discrimination issues.
11:15 AM – 11:30 AM – Break
11:30 AM – 12:45 PM – The Chief Human Resource Officers (CHRO) Roundtable: Origin Stories and Heroic Insights
Sokha Song, Vice President, Human Resources, MT. San Antonio College
Tammy Few, Vice Chancellor, Human Resources & Employee Relations, Riverside CCD
Nekoda Harris, Vice President, Human Resources, College of Marin
David Betts, Vice President, Human Resources & Employee Relations, Monterey Peninsula College
Flavio Medina-Martin, District Director, Diversity, Culture, and Inclusion, North Orange County CCD
Unleash your inner HR hero! This session delves into the extraordinary origin stories of today’s CHRO titans. Witness a distinguished panel, guided by an ACHRO Executive Board Member, as they reveal how their unique ‘superpowers’ forged from diverse backgrounds and hard-won experience propelled them to the pinnacle of HR leadership. Discover the strategies they used to navigate the treacherous landscapes of the HR career path, build impenetrable resilience, and overcome formidable obstacles. Finally, engage directly with these HR legends in a dynamic Q&A.
Title IX Hearing Superhero’s
Lauren Elan Helsper, Assistant/Superintendent/Vice President, People, Culture, and Talent, Antelope Valley Community College
So you need to put on your first Title IX Live Hearing? Then this is the presentation for you! In this presentation, we will fill your toolbox with the HOW-tos and FAQs on how to do a Live Hearing.
Unleashing Hidden Superpowers: Building a Workforce That Includes Disability
Rachel Shaw, Shaw HR Consulting
Diversity isn’t just good for business – it’s a strategic superpower. According to Forbes, diverse teams are better at making decisions 87% of the time over non-diverse teams. A more diverse workforce has a more holistic perspective. Diverse teams are more likely to constantly reexamine facts and remain objective. And, it’s what your current and future workforce wants. Three out of four job seekers and employees (76%) report that a diverse workforce is an important factor when evaluating companies and job offers. Rachel Shaw has helped hundreds of employers – and tens of thousands of employees – navigate the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with one goal: to make sure there is room in the workforce for disabled people who have a right to equally compete and perform. She both inspires HR practitioners and leadership on why this work to build a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workforce matters as well as provides field-tested tools to make this goal a reality in practice.
12:45 PM – 1:45 PM – Awards and Recognition Luncheon
As you enjoy your lunch, ACHRO Leadership will recognize our 2025 Academy Class as well as recognize the winners for The DEIA Individual Champion Award, DEIA Institutional Champion Award, The DEIA Collaboration Champion Award, The Legacy Award and The Volunteer Recognition Award.
Sponsored by: Shaw HR Consulting
1:45 PM – 2:00 PM – Break
2:00 PM – 3:15 PM – Town Hall – Rise Up with Legal Resilience: Executive Orders, Faculty Challenges, and Your Institutional Shield
Aaron O’Donnell, Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Meredith Brown, Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Matt Besmer, Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
Sharon Ormond, Partner, Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud & Romo
In a rapidly evolving legal and political landscape, educational institutions must be prepared to respond swiftly and strategically to federal executive orders and the ongoing adjunct faculty litigation. This session will equip you with the legal resilience needed in the face of emerging challenges. Our legal experts will break down recent executive orders impacting community colleges, discuss strategies for navigating inconsistencies between federal and state policies and laws, examine trends in the adjunct faculty-related lawsuits, and provide practical strategies to help your institution remain compliant, proactive, and protected. Discover your institutional shield and how to wield it effectively when these legal threats arise.
3:15 PM – 3:30 PM – Break – Sponsored by: The Titan Group
3:30 PM – 4:45 PM – The 1% Impact: Differences Between 403(b) and 457 Retirement Plans
Tuyen (Twin) Pham, MBA C(k)P®, AIF®, Practice Leader, AssuredPartners
Julianna Mosier, Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, State Center Community College District
Kelly Gonzales, Vice President, Keenan
Learn how other public sector employees benefit from efficient retirement plans with one or two providers, enhancing buying power and increasing retirement success. Gain strategies to streamline and improve retirement programs for greater effectiveness.
The Empowered HR Hero: Building a Career That Heals, Helps, and Thrives
Dr. Pilar Huffman, Director, Professional Development, Compton College
This is a dynamic workshop designed for HR professionals committed to purposeful and sustainable growth. Explore holistic strategies that align your personal wellness, professional values, and long-term goals. Through reflective activities, practical tools, and peer connection, you’ll learn how to lead with empathy, build resilience, and create impact without burnout. Walk away recharged, refocused, and ready to thrive both in your career and within yourself.
Promoting Equity in Facilities
Stephen McLaughlin, Attorney, AALRR
David Rivera, Attorney, AALRR
Schools must ensure their facilities create an equal-opportunity educational environment for all students. To meet this requirement, schools must comply with several federal and state civil rights laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act, Unruh Civil Rights Act, Title IX, the Civic Center Act, and the School and the Success and Opportunity Act. At the same time, school districts must also take into consideration other rights and concerns, including privacy rights, safety considerations, free speech rights, and providing facilities that are conducive to the education of all students. Some of these laws create tension with other district responsibilities. For example, while the ADA requires schools to ensure equal access for students with disabilities, schools must also ensure their facilities limit access to address safety concerns. Further, schools must balance the gender identity rights of students with privacy concerns. Because these requirements come from both California and federal law, school districts lack clear guidelines that incorporate these many requirements while considering potentially conflicting interests. This presentation will provide a summary of the civil rights applicable to school facilities and real-world suggestions on how school districts can ensure their facilities comply with the various applicable laws while considering the concerns of parents, students, and staff to provide facilities that create an environment that supports and protects the education of all students.
Temps, Subs, and Experts Oh My! How to navigate hiring outside the Classified Service
Pilar Morin, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Amy Brandt, Partner, Liebert Cassidy Whitmore
Kristin Olson, Esq., Vice Chancellor, Human Resources, Rancho Santiago CCD
When and whether a district may employ temporary employees instead of regular classified staff can challenge even the most experienced HR professional. This session explores the legal limits, risks, and rules for hiring outside the classified service under California’s Education Code. We’ll cover merit and non-merit temps, including short-term employees, substitutes, student workers, and professional experts. Learn how to stay compliant, avoid costly mistakes, and make informed staffing decisions in your community college district.
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM – ACHRO/EEO Superhero Reception –
Sponsored by: McKnight Associates
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM – ACHRO/EEO Superhero Dance Party
Sponsored by: Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Ruud, and Romo
Marvel or DC? Wonder Woman or Iron Man? No matter which superhero is your favorite we want to see it! Join us for a night of superheroic food, fun and dancing. Wear your best superhero costume, t-shirt, cape or mask and get ready to party like it’s another universe!!
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM – Registration
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM – Breakfast and Prize Drawings
Sponsored by: Lozano Smith
Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statewide Update – Chancellor’s Office Initiatives
Dr. LaToya Jackson, Visiting Dean, CCC Chancellor’s Office
Abdimalik Buul, Ed. D., Visiting Executive of Institutional Equity,
Innovation and Strategic Impact, CCC Chancellor’s Office
9:00 PM – 10:15 AM – To Be or Not To Be: A Call to Human Resources Effective Strategies for Complaint Intake and Escalation
Precious Edem, Esq., Attorney, Lozano Smith
Terri Wilson, Acting Vice President, Human Resources & Employee Relations, College of the Desert
This session will explore how Human Resources can equip supervisors and managers with the tools and training needed to effectively process student and employee complaints. We will share best practices for conducting complaint intakes and provide clear guidance on when and how to advance matters to Human Resources, in compliance with State and Federal law, including but not limited to Title 5 and Title IX regulations.
The Investigator’s Superpower: Using Trauma-Informed Techniques to Build Trust and Learn the Truth
Liz DeChellis, Partner & Title IX Program Director, Van Dermyden Makus Law Corp.
In a world where every question can either create connection or create distance, interviewers must become more than just information gatherers they must represent empathy, curiosity, and transparency. This engaging session explores trauma-informed interviewing techniques through a superhero lens, equipping participants with practical tools to recognize trauma responses and the stresses of investigative interviews, avoid re-traumatization, and foster genuine connection. We will hone your interviewer superpowers active listening, nonjudgmental curiosity, and keen questioning create a space where truth can emerge and dignity is preserved.
Honing your Superhero Tool Kit: Skelly Officer Training
Lauren Elan Helsper, Assistant Superintendent/Vice President, People, Culture, and Talent, Antelope Valley CCD
This presentation will provide participants with an overview of the Skelly Hearing Officer requirements and provide the tools necessary to serve as a Skelly superhero!
Thank You for Attending the ACHRO/EEO 2025 Annual Conference!
SAVE THE DATE FOR THE
2026 Annual Conference
September 22-25, 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Sacramento