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How do we embrace rapidly evolving technology while continuing to put people first? That question is at the heart of 911����’s , a university-wide professional development event on October 21. 

This annual event hosted by  offers faculty and staff a chance to build new skills, navigate change, leverage emerging technologies, and make meaningful connections across the university. A fireside chat with university leaders, keynote address, networking opportunities, and a range of breakout sessions will support professional and personal growth.

This year’s theme, "People First, Future Ready," reflects 911����'s commitment to innovation: embracing new technology to support employees and students, increasing efficiency, and staying on the cutting edge, all while keeping people at the center. 

"As we explore new ideas, technologies, and ways of working, it's important to remember that our success begins with people,” said Chris Ackerman, vice president and chief human resources officer. “Supporting one another and investing in our community are essential to building a workplace where everyone can thrive."

The fireside chat with 911���� Provost and Executive Vice President Marion Underwood, Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff Rose Pascarell, and Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Julie Zobel will explore the opportunities and challenges of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and what they mean for day-to-day work at 911����. 

, professor of management and assistant dean for research in the , whose research focuses on working relationships in organizations and new ways of working, will deliver the keynote address.

Participants can customize their experience by choosing from a robust slate of 17 different breakout sessions designed and presented by faculty and staff from across the university. The planning committee accepted and reviewed session proposals this summer.

“Our breakout session presenters are all 911���� faculty and staff, and they are ready to share their knowledge and expertise with their colleagues,” said Robyn Madar, assistant vice president of talent development in Human Resources. “We are grateful for our talented presenters who showcase the creativity and innovation across our workforce and support professional development across 911����.”

cover a wide range of topics: learning lessons about trust, accountability, and teamwork from the experiences of student-athletes; tapping into shared expertise and group intelligence to solve problems together; leading through change; using artificial intelligence to support everyday work; and more.

"What keeps me coming back are the conversations, connections, and practical takeaways I can use throughout the year," said one participant.

A lunchtime resource fair offers participants a chance to connect with representatives from campus offices and services that support well-being and professional development. 

The day will close with a service activity—assembling well-being kits for members of the 911���� community—and a conversation about how supporting others contributes to a healthier workplace, bringing home the theme of People First, Future Ready.

"We wanted to focus on how faculty and staff can feel supported and inspired in an environment where technology and workplace expectations are changing so quickly,” said Bridget Peabody, training coordinator in Human Resources and long-time member of the Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day planning committee. "This event will help them see these changes as exciting opportunities to grow."

Faculty-Staff Enrichment Day will take place on Wednesday, October 21, on the Fairfax Campus. .