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🌟 STTACC 2026 — Save the Date! 🌟

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Navigating a New World in Public Service

Get ready! The 2026 STTACC Conference is on the horizon, and we’re excited to share the first details:

📅 Dates: August 12–13, 2026
📍 Location: Grays Harbor College, Aberdeen, Washington

Navigating a New World in Public Service

The STTACC 2026 Conference is designed specifically to support classified staff through professional development, connection, and renewal during a time of rapid change and continued fiscal constraints.

As tight state budgets, evolving expectations, and growing workloads impact public service employees across Washington, this conference creates intentional space to:

  • Build practical skills and strategies
  • Strengthening professional networks
  • Reflect on resilience, well‑being, and purpose in public service
  • Reconnect with the joy and meaning of our work — and with one another

Why Gather In Person?

While STTACC 2026 will offer a Zoom option to ensure accessibility, we strongly encourage in‑person participation. There is something uniquely powerful about gathering face‑to‑face — sharing conversations between sessions, learning side‑by‑side, and building relationships that extend well beyond the conference.

Being together in Grays Harbor offers a setting that supports both learning and restoration. Attendees will enjoy opportunities that reflect our surroundings and values, including:

  • A guided nature hike through local forest landscapes
  • A culinary‑focused presentation highlighting regional food and community
  • Sessions that intentionally connect well‑being, balance, and reflection to our professional lives

Participants can experience the area’s beautiful beaches, lush forests, and coastal charm, creating an atmosphere that encourages connection, creativity, and renewal.

STTACC 2026 is not just a conference — it’s a chance to pause, reconnect, learn, and move forward together in a changing public service landscape.

Call for Presenters — STTACC 2026

Share Your Voice. Share Your Experience. Help Us Navigate What’s Next.

STTACC 2026 invites classified staff, colleagues, and partners to submit presentation proposals that support professional development, resilience, and connection in public service.

We are seeking sessions that are practical, engaging, and relevant — especially those that address the realities of working in times of budget constraints, organizational change, and increasing complexity.

Conference Theme:

Navigating a New World in Public Service

Presentation Topics May Include:

  • Resilience, well‑being, and managing stress during change
  • Professional growth and leadership development for classified staff
  • Technology, systems, and process improvement
  • Teamwork, communication, and workplace culture
  • Creativity, innovation, and problem‑solving with limited resources
  • Work‑life balance, boundaries, and sustainable service

We welcome traditional presentations, interactive sessions, and experiential learning opportunities, including those that take advantage of our unique Grays Harbor setting.

Presenters do not need to be experts — lived experience, peer‑to‑peer learning, and shared practices are highly valued.

Presentation Formats:

  • In‑person sessions (highly encouraged)
  • Hybrid sessions (in‑person with Zoom access)
  • Experiential or activity‑based learning

Join us in creating a conference that informs, restores, and connects.
Submission guidelines and deadlines will be announced soon.

Fill out our form to be one of our presenters.

Presenter Request

STTACC 2025 Virtual Conference Learning Sessions

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STTACC 2025 Virtual Conference Learning Sessions

OPENING SESSION 8/4 10am to 12noon

Champions of Change – Turning Vision into Action Join us as we launch the STTACC 2025 Virtual Conference with an inspiring opening session celebrating the heart of our colleges—classified staff. This year’s theme, Champions of Change: Turning Vision into Action, honors the everyday leaders who are driving transformation across Washington State’s community and technical colleges. 
Guest Speaker: Chris Bailey
Believe. Create. Adapt.
Change is hard.  And perhaps even more difficult in an academic environment. Chris Bailey, former Lower Columbia College president and interim director of the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges, will present on methods to accelerate effective change in an organizational environment.  Chris will emphasize the conceptual skills and interpersonal skills that can aid in the implementation of new initiatives. Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools





LEARNING SESSION 1 8/4 – 1pm to 2pm
Option A
‘Heart Work:
Supporting Youth in Crisis’
Educators are often the first line of support for young people facing mental health challenges. Drawing from original dissertation research on preadolescent and adolescent suicide, this session provides practical strategies to recognize warning signs, respond with care, and connect students to help. 
Participants will also explore the importance of self-care while supporting others through emotional distress. This session goes beyond statistics—it’s about the heart work of showing up for our most vulnerable students.


Presented By: Mary Stover Spokane Colleges Adjunct Instructor Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools

Option B

‘Why STTACC?’
STTACC (Staff Training for Technical and Community Colleges) is more than just a professional development organization—it’s a statewide network committed to empowering classified staff across Washington. 
We’ll explore what STTACC offers, how it can support your growth, and why your voice matters in shaping the future of our colleges. Whether you’re new to STTACC or just curious, join us to discover how being involved can strengthen your skills, expand your network, and elevate the important work you do every day.

Presented by: Nicci Gooch – STTACC President Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools


















LEARNING SESSION 2 8/5 – 10am to 11am
Option A
‘Navigating Cultural
& Leadership Change’
Organizational change can be challenging but also full of opportunities for growth, innovation, and stronger team cohesion. 
This session equips participants with practical tools and strategies to navigate shifts in leadership and workplace culture. Learn how to foster resilience, improve communication, and address resistance to change while maintaining productivity and engagement
Presented by: Carlee Osburn
DES/EAP
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools
Option B
‘SPARKing Clarity in Chaos: Doing More with Less in a Time of Constant Change’

In today’s fast-paced world, where change is constant and resources are limited, clarity is your greatest asset. Join us for an engaging and interactive session designed specifically for classified staff in higher education. Discover the SPARK method—a human-centered approach to AI that helps you reflect, realign, and lead with purpose.
This session is tailored to support classified staff as they navigate shifting roles and rising demands. You’ll experience a live coaching demonstration, participate in group reflection, and get hands-on practice with powerful AI tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how AI can help you do more with what matters most. Please bring access to ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot to fully participate.
Presented by: Brandi Maynard Spokane Community College
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools

LEARNING SESSION 3 8/5 – 1pm to 2pm
Option A
‘Herbal Teas –
Wild Treasures of the PNW’

By the end of this lecture, students will be able to:
Explain the health benefits of herbal teas and their role in supporting overall well-being.
Identify safe and sustainable foraging practices for harvesting wild herbs used in tea blends.
Describe basic methods for drying and preserving herbs to maintain flavor, aroma, and potency.
Demonstrate proper preparation techniques for brewing herbal teas to maximize their therapeutic effects and taste.

Presented by:Nina UriosteCulinary InstructorGrays Harbor College
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools

Option B
‘Sizzle Up Your Workflow
with CoPilot’

Join me for a fun and fast-paced 50-minute summer workshop where we’ll show you how to use Copilot to breeze through everyday tasks. 
From writing emails to analyzing data and creating content, you’ll see live demos of how Copilot can help you work smarter—not harder. Perfect for anyone looking to boost productivity and enjoy more sunshine this season! 
Presented by:Heather Rane Digital Learning Coordinator Bellevue College
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools
LEARNING SESSION 4
8/6 – 10am to 11am
Option A
‘Uplifting Classified Voices
in Times of Change’

In this session, we will:
1. Identify the unique strengths, challenges, and contributions of classified staff during organizational change.
2. Develop strategies to amplify classified voices and promote inclusive communication practices in the workplace.
3. Explore tools that foster self-advocacy, confidence, and resilience in times of transition.
4. Recognize the role of equity and belonging in supporting classified staff through change.

Presented by: Debbie Joyner, Elysee Kazadi, Cass McLain Multicultural Student Services Spokane Community College
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools


Option B
‘Emotional Intelligence
in the Workplace’

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the foundation of strong leadership, teamwork, and conflict resolution. 
This session explores the five key components of EI—self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills—and how to apply them in workplace interactions, virtual communication, and decision-making. Learn how to improve emotional regulation, build trust, and create a psychologically safe work environment
Presented by: Carlee Osburn DES/EAP
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools













LEARNING SESSION 5 8/6 – 1pm to 2pm
Option A
‘WFSE: Benefits of your Union’

Discover the power and perks of being a member of the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). This informative session will break down the many benefits your union provides—from contract protections and workplace rights to healthcare options, retirement planning, and professional support. 
Learn how WFSE advocates for you, how to access your benefits, and ways to get involved to strengthen your voice at work. Whether you’re new to the union or want a refresher, this session is your guide to understanding the value of union membership.

Presented by: Theresa Sullivan WFSE
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools



Option B
‘Cultivating Transformation: A Holistic Approach to Staff Success’
This interactive session invites staff to explore how sustainable change begins with self-connection. Through guided reflection, participants will examine their experiences in the workplace, identify areas for growth and support, and leave with a personalized strategy to help cultivate a thriving, inclusive culture.

Outcomes: Define holistic transformation in the context of staff success Assess strengths and gaps across key domains of well-being Generate practical strategies for an inclusive workplace culture Commit to one small action to spark positive change
Presented by: Heather Rane Bellevue Community College
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools



LEARNING SESSION 6 8/7 – 10am to 11am
Option A
‘Advancing Equity Work with Generative AI ’

Generative AI presents both challenges and opportunities for equity. In this session, participants will explore how to use generative AI as a tool to identify and address systemic equity gaps within their departments.
Participants will learn:The spectrum of systemic inequityHow to use generative AI to detect inequitiesHow to prompt AI for effective, equity-focused solutionsHow to evaluate and validate AI-generated solutions for equity impact
Presented by: Jeremy WinnGrays Harbor College
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools


Option B
‘Join us at STTACC’

Let’s take an inside look at what it is like to be a STTACC Board Member! Talking about open positions. Maybe you are not ready to take a board position. How else can you get involved! 
Presented by: Nicci GoochSpokane Community College
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools
CLOSING SESSION 8/7 – 1pm to 3pm
Our final session brings everyone together to reflect, connect, and look ahead. We’ll start with a Treasury Report to provide financial transparency, followed by Regional Breakout Sessions where attendees can discuss what they’d like to see from STTACC moving forward. We’ll recognize outgoing and incoming board members, announce the Outstanding Classified Staff Award winner(s), and hold a brief Business Meeting to close out the year. This is also your final call to get involved—because as Champions of Change, our work doesn’t end here. Presented by: STTACC Board
Zoom Links Available to Registered Schools

2024 STTACC Annual Meeting Day 1 & 2 Plan

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Auditorium with wooden seats

Day 1 – STTACC Annual Meeting August 7, 2024 – 1:15pm – 1:55pm

  • STTACC Board Roll Call
  • Washington State Community and Technical Colleges Roll Call

Business –

  • 2023 STTACC Annual Meeting Minutes for Day 1 and Day 2 request for approval.
  • Reports
  • STTACC History
  • STTACC Executive Board 2023/2024 current position holder/positions OPEN
  • STTACC Regional Coordinators 2023/2024 current position holder and positions OPEN
  • STTACC College Contacts 2023/2024 current position holder and positions OPEN
  • Next STTACC Annual Conference location in Western Washington OPEN
  • Apply online @ Board Members – STTACC by August 7th Midnight.

APPLY~~~APPLY~~~APPLY~~~APPLY~~~APPLY~~~APPLY~~~APPLY~~~APPLY~~~APPLY

  • Call to Action: The STTACC Board is seeking the establishment of the STTACC Land & Labor Acknowledgement. We are hoping for 3-6 volunteers representing different colleges in Washington state. The completion date for this short-term project is December 2024 [or sooner]. Provide any Board member your name and email if interested.
  • Adjourn STTACC 2024 Annual Business Meeting Day 1 until STTACC 2024 Annual Business Meeting Day 2 – Thursday August 8, 2024

Day 1 – STTACC Annual Awards Dinner August 7, 2024 – 6:00pm – 8:00pm

  • STTACC Host Appreciation  
  • STTACC Exemplary Staff Nominees 
  • STTACC Exemplary Staff Winners 
  • STTACC Board Appreciation

Day 2 – STTACC Annual Meeting August 8, 2024

9:00-9:30 Welcome, Agenda & Voting

  • STTACC Board Roll Call 

New Business- Board Membership Voting

VOTE~~~VOTE~~~VOTE~~~VOTE~~~VOTE~~~VOTE~~VOTE~~~VOTE~~~VOTE~~~VOTE

9:30-10:00 Regional Meeting – Regional Coordinator and College Contact Voting

10:00-10:15 Break [Vote Collection]

10:15-10:30 New Business

  • Announcement of New Board, New Regional Coordinators, New College Contacts
  • Announcement of the next STTACC Annual Conference location
  • Adjourn STTACC 2024 Annual Business Meeting Day 2 until STTACC 2025 Annual Business Meeting in August 2025. 

Your 2023/2024 STTACC Board

Pack & Plan for A Culture of Community – Commitment, Collaboration & Success

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To ensure a smooth and comfortable experience at the 2024 STTACC Annual Conference, make sure to pack a few essentials. Bring your conference materials, such as necessary documents, business cards, and a notebook or device for taking notes. Don’t forget some college swag for the Swag Swap. Dress comfortably, considering layers as conference rooms can vary in temperature, and wear supportive shoes since you’ll be on your feet a lot. Stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle and keep your energy up with healthy snacks. A portable charger will keep your devices powered throughout the day, and a lightweight backpack or tote bag will help carry your essentials and any materials you pick up.

For personal care, pack hand sanitizer, lip balm, and lotion to stay clean and moisturized. Check the weather forecast and pack an umbrella or sunhat if needed and consider sunglasses for outdoor activities. Additionally, plan your schedule to attend the workshops that interest you the most, and bring plenty of business cards for networking. If you arrive early on August 6th, join the walk-through Riverfront Park and enjoy live music and food trucks. Look forward to the keynote by Ben Messner, who will share insights on building community and team dynamics. Have a great time at the conference!


Harnessing Strengths, Building Futures: STTACC – Empowering Classified Staff Since 1978!

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STTACC Logo

Our history, the Staff Training for Technical and Community Colleges (STTACC) organization was established in 1978. The inception of STTACC was driven by an Inter-governmental Personnel Act (IPA) grant received by the Seattle Community College District VI. This grant aimed to share the district VI training model with all 24 community colleges across Washington State at that time. We now have 34 community and technical colleges throughout Washington State.


The grant also mandated the creation of a statewide-classified employee development advisory board by September 30, 1979. To achieve this, a series of three two-day conferences were organized in early 1979. These conferences, held at St. Thomas Seminary in Kenmore, Washington, included workshops on needs assessment, planning and implementation strategies, and the development of a statewide network.


STTACC’s mission is to support innovation, training, and leadership by providing resources and connections to classified staff members throughout Washington State. The organization continues to play a crucial role in enhancing the professional development of classified staff in technical and community colleges.

See you soon at our STTACC Annual Conference and Annual Meeting!

Your 2023/2024 STTACC Board