ATD-Los Angeles Latest News

Celebrate and Save During ATD’s Member Sale

Denise Ross — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 20:27:43 GMT

We are so excited to let you know that ATD’s Member Appreciation Sale is here!

All-Month Sale (now–March 31):

Been waiting for the right time to become an ATD Power Member? The time has arrived! Join Los Angeles & ATD National by March 31 to save big on Power Membership!

10% off Los Angeles Chapter Membership for New members (Individual, In Transition, Student/Academic/Young Professionals levels) Click here to join the LA Chapter Only
25% savings on ATD National membership (there's never been a better time to join)

March 11–31 Sale:

The #ATDMemberAppreciationSale is coming! Don’t miss your chance at exclusive members-only deals March 11-31!

20% off select ATD courses
Reduced rates on popular events
Discount on ATD26 International Conference & Expo (join the LA Chapter Team here to save even more)
20% Savings on bestselling books and ATD research

ATD National membership provides exclusive members-only content and trusted resources to support your work. Now through March 31 you will save 25% on your ATD national membership, 10% on Los Angeles chapter membership, plus receive deep discounts on ATD courses or conferences. This savings is in addition to the $30 discount you receive as a Power member. (Power Member means you are a member of both ATD National and your Local Chapter. Contact Denise, LA Chapter’s Admin @ 562-908-3020 for questions and details.)

If you are already an ATD National member or LA Chapter Member and want to add the other membership, follow the instructions below.

Take advantage of the ATD Member Appreciation Sale at td.org or by contacting ATD’s Customer Care team at 703.683.8100.

Help the Chapter!

Give the ATD rep the Los Angeles Chapter’s ChIP code CH8028 or select Los Angeles from the dropdown menu online on the final page of checkout to receive your discount and ensure that a portion of your purchase goes back to the local chapter through the Chapter Incentive Program (ChIP).

President’s Message 2026

Denise Ross — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 22:47:39 GMT

As each new year begins, many of us choose a single word to anchor our focus. It’s a simple practice, yet choosing just one word can feel surprisingly complex. Absolutes rarely define our lives and careers. Still, if I had to choose one word to guide us into 2026—one that reflects who we are and who we aspire to be—that word is intentional.

This year, ATD Los Angeles is moving forward with deep intention. Every decision, program, partnership, and moment of connection will be designed with one purpose in mind: to elevate our members' experience and success. You are the heart of this chapter, and our commitment is to ensure that everything we offer meaningfully supports your growth.

To guide us, we are aligning all chapter activities with our four pillars—our north star for 2026 and beyond:

Sharpen Your Skills. Curated learning experiences that strengthen your capabilities and keep you ahead of industry trends.
Build Your Network. Opportunities to connect with peers, mentors, and leaders who expand your perspective and open new doors. This includes cross-chapter and/or sister organization collaborations.
Advance Your Career. Resources, insights, and pathways that help you navigate your professional journey with confidence.
Lead and Give Back. A community where you can contribute your expertise, develop your leadership voice, and make a lasting impact.

These pillars represent more than a framework—they are our member promise. Just as organizations articulate a brand promise or mission, this is our commitment to you. When you invest in ATD-LA, we invest in your long-term success. This is our answer to “Why join ATD-LA?” not only today but also next year and five years from now.

2026 will be a year centered on you—your aspirations, development, and potential. Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned practitioner, we want ATD Los Angeles to be the place where you feel supported, challenged, and inspired.

Thank you for being part of this vibrant community. I look forward to learning, growing, and celebrating with you throughout the year. Here’s to a new year filled with purpose, possibility, and the courage to become the best version of ourselves.

Cheers to 2026—and to the intentional journey ahead! Join us at ATD Los Angeles and make this your year to thrive.

Sincerely,

Maura

Maura Lemon, 2025-2026 President

Turn Over a New Leaf with ATD-LA! Enjoy Fall discounts for new ATD-LA Membership - Limited Time Only!

Denise Ross — Mon, 13 Oct 2025 23:01:59 GMT

As someone who has spent over 15 years in the learning and development space, I know firsthand that transformation doesn’t happen by chance—it happens through connection, continuous learning, and intentional growth.

That’s why I’m inviting you to join ATD - Los Angeles, the leading community for talent development professionals in Southern California.

This fall marks your season of growth. By becoming a member, you’ll gain access to a rich portfolio of programming designed to accelerate your career and deepen your impact in the field.

Here’s just a glimpse of what’s waiting for you:

Mentorship Program – Applications are open now!
Young Professionals SIG – Launching this November
Exclusive Discounts – Save on certifications like Everything DiSC®
Monthly Chapter Meetings – Curated topics to expand your expertise
Live Webinars – Practical insights to boost your capabilities
Networking Events – Up to four in-person gatherings to connect and collaborate

Special Fall Offer: October 13–31, 2025
Join now and receive $50 off your individual membership using promo code JOINUS2025 at checkout.

Are you a student or in career transition? Email us at president@atdla.org to access our lowest rate of the year—just $49.

This is more than a discount—it’s an invitation to invest in your professional journey, connect with industry experts, and shape the future of talent development.

Let’s grow together. Join ATD-Los Angeles today and start unlocking your potential into 2026 and beyond.

Sincerely,

Maura Lemon, ATD-LA President

ATD-LA 2026 Board Election: Call for Nominations

Denise Ross — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:39:00 GMT

Per the terms of the chapter bylaws, we call for your nomination to join the Board of Directors.

The ATD-Los Angeles Chapter Board is a very diverse group and values the thoughts and skills of everyone. Our volunteers and board give their time pro bono (not paid). We coordinate the tasks for several learning programs, chapter meetings and membership related projects.

The following positions are up for election this year, with a two-year term on the ATD-LA Board of Directors beginning in January 2026.

All nomination forms must be submitted by or before the deadline of October 19, 2025.

President Elect
Secretary
Director of Chapter Meetings
Director of Marketing
Director of Membership

Nominate yourself or someone else to appear on the ballot during the membership voting period in October. The Call for Nominations period is open now through October 19.

Click to Nominate

Visit position descriptions here.

In addition, we are also looking to fill other volunteer positions:

If you have any interest, please contact President Maura Lemon @ president@atdla.org.

Everything DiSC® Certification

Denise Ross — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 19:44:18 GMT

Everything DiSC® Certification

Now Available to ATD Members at a Discounted Rate!

Enhance your professional credibility and facilitation skills with Everything DiSC® Certification — and help support the ATD-Los Angeles chapter at the same time!

We’re excited to share a unique opportunity for ATD members to participate in Everything DiSC® Certification at a special discounted rate, thanks to a collaboration between our ATD chapter and the Center for Internal Change. This offering provides professional development benefits to our members and helps raise funds for our local chapter!

Please Note: ATD is not a reseller of Everything DiSC® Certification. This opportunity is made possible through our collaboration with the Center for Internal Change, an Authorized Partner and licensed provider for Everything DiSC® products and certification.

Find out more here...

APTD/CPTD Complimentary Retest—Now Through June 30

Denise Ross — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 18:32:12 GMT

Limited-Time Offer: Free Retest for APTD® and CPTD® Candidates

Earning an ATD certification boosts your professional credibility, validates your expertise, and sets you apart in a competitive job market. It demonstrates your commitment to the field, increases your value to employers, and can open doors to career opportunities.

Now through June 30, 2025, receive a free retest when you apply for the Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD®) or Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD®) certification.* Have an easier testing experience knowing you have the security of a free second test.

Apply for APTD

Apply for CPTD

USE THE CHAPTER CODE: When applying for either certification or for any purchase at ATD, remember to use the ChIP Code 8028 or choose Los Angeles from the drop down.

The chapter receives a portion of every purchase to help bring you valuable resources.

*The free retest offer is for new applicants from May 18-June 30, 2025 and does not apply to team bundles or those paying with a partner-provided code. No refunds, substitutions, or credits for prior purchases will be issued. Applicants will receive an email within five business days of applying with instructions on how to redeem the retest offer. Retest must be redeemed by April 30, 2026.

ATD-LA meets Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE) for 2025

ATD-LA — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 19:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA successfully met all required CARE elements for 2025 and was recognized for 100% achievement of CARE. Based on our reported CARE Plus responses, ATD-LA was also recognized as a CARE Plus achieved chapter. The 2025 award is for chapter affiliation requirements met in 2024.

Thank you to the 2024 ATD-LA Leadership team for providing and sustaining a vibrant community that serves our members and the entire talent development profession!

President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 20:00:00 GMT

As we step into 2025, I am deeply honored to serve as your president during this critical time for talent development. Reflecting on the challenges and resilience demonstrated by our community—especially in light of the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area—I want to express solidarity with all who have been affected. This moment calls for unity, compassion, and purpose.

Each year, I choose a word to encapsulate the focus of the year ahead. For 2025, that word is “intentional.” To me, being intentional means making deliberate, meaningful choices—acting when it makes sense, communicating with clarity and purpose, and approaching both personal and professional growth with unwavering focus.

Our board’s journey this year will be anchored by four key priorities: building a stronger, more connected community; advancing the skills and capabilities of our members; fostering innovative, forward-thinking solutions; and embracing a growth mindset to navigate opportunities and challenges alike.

Building Community

Our strength lies in our community. By fostering connections among professionals, we create a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and shared learning. Let's continue to build bridges, share experiences, and support one another in our professional endeavors.

Advancing Skills

In a rapidly evolving landscape, continuous skill development is essential. We are committed to providing resources and opportunities that enable our members to enhance their competencies, stay ahead of industry trends, and meet the challenges of tomorrow.

Fostering Innovative Solutions

Innovation is the cornerstone of progress. We encourage embracing new ideas and approaches to address the dynamic needs of our organizations and learners. By cultivating a culture of creativity, we can develop solutions that drive success and growth.

Navigating 2025 with a Growth Mindset

Adopting a growth mindset empowers us to view challenges as opportunities for development. As we navigate the complexities of 2025, let's remain open to learning, resilient in the face of obstacles, and committed to personal and professional growth.

Together, with intention and purpose, we can make this year impactful for all. I look forward to collaborating with each of you as we advance the field of talent development into the future and beyond!

Warm regards,

Maura Lemon

2025 Chapter President

Association for Talent Development - Los Angeles Chapter

Introducing Our New Look: ATD-LA's Updated Logo Colors

ATD-LA — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 19:00:00 GMT

We are excited to announce that ATD has updated its logo colors to align with our ongoing efforts to ensure a cohesive and accessible identity across all our offerings. The new blue and green color palette emphasizes our commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.

This refreshed branding better represents our values and mission, making it easier for everyone to connect with and recognize our organization.

Thank you for being a valued part of the ATD community. We look forward to continuing our journey together with this fresh, new look.

ATD-LA meets Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE) for 2024

ATD-LA — Mon, 08 Apr 2024 19:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA successfully met all required CARE elements for 2024 and was recognized for 100% achievement of CARE. Based on our reported CARE Plus responses, ATD-LA was also recognized as a CARE Plus achieved chapter. The 2024 award is for chapter affiliation requirements met in 2023.

Thank you to the 2023 ATD-LA Leadership team for providing and sustaining a vibrant community that serves our members and the entire talent development profession!

On the fence about joining ATD-LA? Hurry before prices go up!

ATD-LA — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 19:00:00 GMT

Don’t miss out on your chance to enjoy membership in your premier Learning & Development community at 2023 rates!

Join as a new member or renew your current or expired membership before Monday, April 1,* to get in on last year’s rate! Yes, you can take advantage of this offer, even if your membership is not yet due for renewal (just call or email the office).

Here are some NEW perks to take advantage of today:

Option to renew for two years and lock in your 2023 membership rate (call or email the office to take advantage of the extended savings)
Earn continuing professional development credits for CPTD and APTD certifications while attending ATD-LA Chapter Meetings and events
Access to special member rates to events in other ATD chapters
Virtual and in-person chapter and networking events

ATD-LA is the only community dedicated to Learning & Development professionals in the Los Angeles area, where you can build your professional and peer network, engage in career enhancement, and take part in professional development opportunities.

For any questions or assistance, contact Denise at 562.908.3020 or office@atdla.org.

*Member rates will be increasing by $10 for all membership levels on April 1, 2024.

President's Year in Review Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 20:00:00 GMT

Dear ATD-LA Members and Community,

We would like to wish you a very happy and healthy 2024! It was such a pleasure to see many of you in person again at our holiday mixer in December. We look forward to connecting personally with each of you as we put the pandemic isolation behind us.

It seems that the years go by so quickly, and we here at ATD-LA are committed to adapting to the pace of change and making sure that you have a unique resource in your ATD-LA community.

Before sharing our thoughts for 2024, we would like to take a look back at some of the highlights of 2023.

This was the first time that ATD-LA has had two Co-Presidents, demonstrating that when things evolve, all organizations can be nimble and innovative. It has been a joy to share the role between us, and our partnership is strong.
We came back together for three in-person chapter events in the LA area and for the ATD International Conference and Expo in San Diego.
In January, the Board developed a member value proposition that centered on being your exclusive resource for developing your competencies and network through chapter meetings and workshops featuring:
- Emerging technology trends (the metaverse and augmented/virtual reality; artificial intelligence in learning design and delivery; and the gamification of learning)
- Career development strategies (conducting an effective job search, identifying growth opportunities, and recognizing one’s own talents)
- Hot topics that impact Learning and Talent Development professionals (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Sales Enablement, Imposter Syndrome)
- Foundational knowledge and skills (emotional intelligence, neuroscience)
Our Young Professionals Special Interest Group had a knockout year with excellent programming topics (for all members) and grew from being a local group to a Southern California group to a total California group. Talk about a rocket ship that just keeps going higher!
The Mentor Program was a great success and gave many members the opportunity to learn and grow in ways that might not be available to them in the workplace or academic environment alone.
Late in the year, we lost a dear member of the ATD-LA family, Sue Gabriele, who passionately led the Roundtable (formerly the South Bay GIG) with our ISPI colleagues. Sue was a longtime member of ATD-LA and a dedicated advocate of learning through discussion, dialogue, and questioning. She will be greatly missed, and we are thankful for her contributions to our community.

Our Board is meeting in January 2024 to finalize this year’s strategy and goals. Be on the lookout for the update. Some things we would like to spotlight for 2024 are:

Distinctiveness – We understand that there are many organizations and resources available for self-development under the Talent Development umbrella. As lines sometimes cross within Talent Development and HR, ATD-LA stands as a unique resource committed to the discipline of Learning & Development as a core focal point. Our programming for 2024 continues to center on this distinction.
Membership – The heart and soul of this organization is our membership and the opportunity to build relationships that can last for years. We strive to provide the resources and opportunities that will help you build your own skills and nurture your network. As with many organizations, the pandemic has changed the face of engagement for all of us, and we have seen our membership dip.
- If your membership is up for renewal, has expired, or has lapsed, now is the time to make sure that it is active and current so that you don’t miss a beat and we can all get to know one another.
- If you have questions or thoughts about your membership, please reach out to us.
Volunteerism – We are a volunteer organization where each volunteer gives a few hours per month to help the organization be its best. If you are looking for ways to develop leadership, sales, marketing, communication, networking, negotiation, and many other critical skills, we encourage you to volunteer with ATD-LA. If you are currently in transition or looking for new opportunities, volunteering with ATD-LA is a great way to keep your pulse on the industry and build a referral network.
Engagement, Programming, and Value – ATD-LA continues to evolve our offerings to you. With so many opportunities to learn new things easily available at your fingertips, we are always looking for ways to give you individualized and quality programs and networking opportunities. We are proud to be a 2024 ATD Certified Provider so that you can receive continuing education credits for participating in our programs. We will also offer members-only access to events and programs with other ATD chapters in the region. Stay tuned!

Thank you for your time and attention, and we look forward to seeing you in 2024!

Sincerely,

Anupa Naik and Valerie Quezada
Presidents, ATD-LA

ATD Member Month - Save From January 8–12!

ATD-LA — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 20:00:00 GMT

Invest in your professional development with discounts on bestselling ATD products!

Happy Member Appreciation Month, we've got some seriously exciting savings for you! We're talking major discounts on some of your favorites. Savings on certificate and masters programs, national membership, books, and trusted research reports. You won't want to miss out on these deals, valid for one week only January 8th-12th!

Head over to our sale to stock up on everything you need to supercharge your career. While you're at it, don't forget to bundle your membership! Our ATD national membership provides exclusive members-only content and trusted resources to support the work you do. You will have the chance to lock in the absolute lowest price on your ATD National membership for up to 3 years!

Your chapter receives a portion of your purchase through the Chapter Incentive Program (ChIP). All you have to do is select ATD-LA from the dropdown menu at checkout, and you will support your local chapter!

But don't wait too long to take advantage of these amazing savings. The sale ends on January 12, 2024!

Shop the Sale

Holiday Office Closure

ATD-LA — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 20:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA volunteers, directors, and office staff will be taking a break between December 25 and January 2. We wish you a happy holiday! See you in 2024!

In Memoriam of Sue Gabriele

Denise Ross — Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:03:38 GMT

On November 6, the ATD - Los Angeles learning and development community lost an important leader and innovator. Sue Gabriele was a beloved long-time member of the ATD - Los Angeles Chapter. She will be remembered most as the founder of the GEMS RoundTable meeting method and leader of the RoundTable SIG. You can learn more about Sue's great works at www.gemslearning.net

Below are details on how to celebrate Sue on Friday, December 8 with members of several other organizations with which Sue was involved.

A LETTER FROM THE FAMILY & INVITATION TO HONOR SUE ON 12/8

Dear friends, family, and colleagues.

Our beloved mother Susan Farr Gabriele passed away on November 6th.

On Friday, December 8th, we honor our Mom's academic achievements on-line from 8am to 9am, to be sponsored by the International Society of Professional Improvement. Please REGISTER FREE at this SITE (to get the meeting link).

Our family misses her and loves her more than words can describe. If you are one of the nice people who miss her also, please feel free to leave messages here on her remembrance site:

https://everloved.com/life-of/susan-gabriele/

We use this site to announce her Celebration of Life too, which will be Jan 8th for the 1:30pm Funeral and Reception at American Martyrs Church (1431 Deegan Place, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266)

On Jan 9th, at 10am will be the Interment at Inglewood Park Cemetery (720 E Florence Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301).

Thank you dearly, and you are all welcome to each event.

Tony and Sylvie Gabriele

ATD-LA Is Now a Pre-Approved Provider

ATD-LA — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Attention APTD and CPTD credential holders — ATD-LA is now a preapproved education provider for both recertification and initial application professional development hours!

Black Friday Deal - $50 Off New Individual Membership Through December 1

ATD-LA — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Save $50 off your first year of New Individual ATD-LA Membership. That's our lowest price of the year!

This offer is valid from November 22 to December 1. Use promo code BFRIDAY2023.

Join Now

ATD-LA 2024 Board Election: Board Announcement

ATD-LA — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 19:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA welcomes its 2024 Board of Directors!

Co-President: Anupa Naik
Co-President: Valerie Quezada
Treasurer: Vince LoRusso
Director of Chapter Meetings: Amanda Peterson
Director of Marketing & Communications: Smita Sanbui

ATD Summer Sale - Save 10% on Membership Now Through August 11

ATD-LA — Mon, 07 Aug 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Invest in your professional development with discounts on bestselling ATD products!

This week only! August 7th - 11th, you can save on ATD favorites with discounts sitewide, including discounts on National and Chapter Membership when purchased on td.org.

ATD national membership provides exclusive members-only content and trusted resources to support your work. From August 7th - August 11th, you will save 10% on your ATD National membership in addition to the $30 discount you receive as a Power Member. Plus, our chapter is also offering a 10% discount.

Our chapter receives a portion of purchases through the Chapter Incentive Program (ChIP). Be sure to select our name from the dropdown menu on the final page of checkout to send a portion of your purchase to our chapter.

Sale ends on August 11th, so you won't want to wait!

Save Today!

ATD-LA 2024 Board Election: Call for Nominations

ATD-LA — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Per the terms of the chapter bylaws, we call for your nomination to join the Board of Directors.

The ATD-LA Board is a very diverse group and values the thoughts and skills of everyone. Our volunteers and board give their time pro bono (not paid). We coordinate the tasks for several learning programs, chapter meetings and membership related projects.

The following positions are up for election this year, with a two-year term on the ATD-LA Board of Directors beginning in January 2024.

President Elect
Secretary
Director of Chapter Meetings
Director of Membership
Director of Marketing & Communications
Director of Volunteers

Nominate yourself or someone else to appear on the ballot during the membership voting period in September. The Call for Nominations period is open now through August 18.

Visit www.atdla.org/page-1819156 for position descriptions.

Click to Nominate

All nomination forms must be submitted by or before the deadline of August 18, 2023.

ATD Member Appreciation: Save 10% Off Membership March 20–25!

ATD-LA — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Been waiting for the right time to become an ATD-LA member? The time has arrived!

Save 10% off membership now, between March 20 and 25!

Don’t miss your chance at this exclusive offer.

Find even more discounts on bestselling ATD products over at td.org between March 20 and 25. Our chapter receives a portion of purchase through the Chapter Incentive Program (ChIP). Be sure to select our name from the dropdown menu on the final page of checkout to send a portion of your purchase to our chapter.

Click Here to Join

ATD-LA meets Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE) for 2023

ATD-LA — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 20:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA successfully met all required CARE elements for 2023 and was recognized for 100% achievement of CARE. Based on our reported CARE Plus responses, ATD-LA was also recognized as a CARE Plus achieved chapter. The 2023 award is for chapter affiliation requirements met in 2022.

Thank you to the 2022 ATD-LA Leadership team for providing and sustaining a vibrant community that serves our members and the entire talent development profession:

Kavita Gupta
Maura Lemon
Vince LoRusso
Anupa Naik
Mariam Manukyan
Alessaundra Mills
Valerie Quezada
Princess Walsh
Esther Ramirios
Michelle Yang
Nairee Bedikian
Luis Martiz
Guy Morgenshtern
Tanya Thampipop
Clarissa Pitts
Conrad Moore
Rachel Bravo

Mentor Program 2023: Applications Now Open

ATD-LA — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 21:46:50 GMT

Looking for guidance and feedback on how to meet your career goals for next year? Want to give back to the ATD-LA community by supporting your peers in their professional endeavors? If you’ve answered yes to one of these questions, we’ll be excited to welcome you to this new cohort as either a Mentor or a Mentee. Registration is now open using the links below.

February 2: Information Session, Application Announcement
February 23: Application Deadline
March 17: Match Notification
Week of March 27: Kickoff Orientation
TBD: Mid-Term Check-in
Week of September 24: Closing Survey
Week of October 9: Closing Session

For additional details, please visit our mentoring page, or reach out to mentor@atdla.org.

Applications

· Mentor Application

· Mentee Application

New Job? New Address? It’s Time to Update Your Profile!

ATD-LA — Mon, 09 Jan 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Refresh your chapter profile! Got a new professional picture? If you moved, landed a new job, want to update your password or it’s been a hot minute since you’ve updated your account profile, now is the time to update your contact information.

Simply log in, click "View Profile" at the top, then click "Edit profile."

Chapter Incentive Program (ChIP)

ATD-LA — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Help earn revenue for ATD-LA at no extra cost to you!

Be sure to select our chapter’s name or ChIP code (CH8028) from the dropdown menu at checkout when purchasing an ATD product, membership, or conference/program registration at www.td.org.

Thank you to everyone who has participated in the Chapter Incentive Program.

KG Talent Development Grant Closed

ATD-LA — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 20:00:00 GMT

The KG Talent Development Grant generously donated by Past President Kavita Gupta helped members, non-members and students receive a one year complimentary membership from 2021-2022. The $2,500 grant funded 31 memberships and is now closed. ATD-LA relies on a strong active membership and is proud to provide the benefits associated with a worldwide talent development organization.

ATD-LA recognized at ATD Chapter Leader Conference Nov 3-4

ATD-LA — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 21:31:49 GMT

ALC is the annual ATD Chapter Leader Conference that’s attended by over 500 chapter leaders in the U.S.

The purpose of the conference is for chapter leader development for returning and incoming board members and award recognition for chapters.

ATD-LA was recognized at the conference for being the March 2022 Chapter of the Month.

At the conference were sessions on programming, membership, finance, governance, strategy, networking, and more, with keynote sessions by Tony Bingham, CEO of ATD, and special guests.

ATD-LA 2023 Board Election: Board Announcement

ATD-LA — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA welcomes its 2023 Board of Directors!

Co-President: Anupa Naik
Co-President: Valerie Quezada
Past President: Kavita Gupta
Treasurer: Vince LoRusso
Secretary: Amanda Peterson
Co-Director Chapter Meetings: Alessaundra Mills, Ed.D.
Co-Director Chapter Meetings: Tanya Thampipop, APTD
Director Membership: Rachel Bravo
Director Workshops & Webinars: Open

Q3 Volunteer Recognition

ATD-LA — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 19:00:00 GMT

The ATD-LA Board is pleased to recognize Luis Martiz, Social Media Manager, for the Q3 Volunteer Recognition award. Congratulations to Luis for his outstanding work and contribution to the chapter as a new chapter leader!

Volunteers make up the heart of ATD-Los Angeles Chapter. Our Board of Directors and management team volunteer their time and expertise to plan chapter events and projects. If you are interested in volunteering with ATD-LA, please reach out to Valerie Quezada at volunteers@atdla.org.

Fall Membership Special: KG Talent Development Grant

ATD-LA — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 19:00:00 GMT

The KG Talent Development Grant will be available from October 1, 2022, to October 31, 2022, to assist 5 current and past members with the cost of renewing their membership and to assist non-members with joining ATD-LA.

If you’ve been waiting for the right time to renew your membership or join ATD-LA, this is it! The KG Talent Development Grant will cover your ATD-LA membership fee.

Be sure to make use of this great opportunity to stay connected with your fellow learning and development community members. Contact office@atdla.org for more information.

ATD-LA 2023 Board Election: Nomination Form

ATD-LA — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Per the terms of the chapter bylaws, we call for your self-nomination to join the Board of Directors.

You will be nominating an ATD-LA Board Member for a two year term that begins in January 2023. Ballots will be distributed in September 2022.

The ATD-LA Board is a very diverse group and values the thoughts and skills of everyone. Our volunteers and board give their time pro bono (not paid). We coordinate the tasks for several learning programs, chapter meetings and membership related projects.

Directions: You can nominate yourself or another person for as many positions as you wish by using this form.

The open positions for the 2023 ATD-LA Board of Directors are:

President Elect
Treasurer
Director of Workshops
Director of Communities of Practice
Director of Webinars
Member-At-Large

Visit www.atdla.org/page-1819156 for position descriptions.

All Nomination Forms must be submitted by or before the deadline: August 19, 2022 at 5 p.m.

Click Here to Nominate

Sizzling Summer Sale: $25 Off New Membership

ATD-LA — Sat, 09 Jul 2022 19:00:00 GMT

Soak up the sun and savings!

Save $25 off new individual membership.

Going on now through August 31.

Click Here and use code: YAY4SUMMER

This is for individual memberships only. (Does not apply to power, student or group.)

Mayoral Recognition of ATD-LA for Employee Learning Week

ATD-LA — Sat, 14 May 2022 19:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA received the first endorsement and recognition for our work during Employee Learning Week (ELW) 2021 from Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti!

ELW is an awareness campaign that highlights the important connection between learning and achieving organizational results, and it takes place in December each year.

The growing skills gap and the increased need to compete in today’s economy require organizations to develop a knowledgeable and highly skilled workforce. ELW is a perfect opportunity for organizations to get involved and highlight their commitment to learning and development.

Special thanks to Mariam Manukyan, our Member-at-Large, for her efforts in streamlining and creating a structured ELW process for the chapter, as well as her persistent efforts with the city in getting this recognition.

ATD Member Appreciation: Save 10% Off Membership April 25–29!

ATD-LA — Mon, 25 Apr 2022 15:31:32 GMT

Been waiting for the right time to become an ATD-LA member? The time has arrived!

Save 10% off membership next week, between April 25 and 29!

Don’t miss your chance at this exclusive offer.

Find even more discounts on bestselling ATD products over at td.org between April 25 and 29. Our chapter receives a portion of purchase through the Chapter Incentive Program (ChIP). Be sure to select our name from the dropdown menu on the final page of checkout to send a portion of your purchase to our chapter.

Click Here to Join

ATD-LA meets Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE) for 2021

ATD-LA — Wed, 06 Apr 2022 19:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA successfully met all required CARE elements for 2021 and was recognized for 100% achievement of CARE. Based on our reported CARE Plus responses, ATD-LA was also recognized as a CARE Plus achieved chapter.

Thank you to the ATD-LA Leadership team for providing and sustaining a vibrant community serving our members and the entire talent development profession.

New ATD-LA Membership Type: Young Professionals

ATD-LA — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 20:00:00 GMT

In alignment with ATD, ATD-Los Angeles offers a discount on membership for professionals aged 35 or younger in the talent development industry.

To advance and support this community, ATD-LA is part of a tri-chapter SoCal Young Professionals Special Interest Group (SIG) that holds meetings on topics of interest to this demographic.

Click here for details!

March President’s Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 02 Mar 2022 22:57:01 GMT

It was truly an honor to receive two ATD awards on behalf of the board and you, our members – the Share our Success best practice strategic planning award and the March 2022 Chapter of the Month award. These prestigious awards undergo a rigorous application and review process by ATD’s Chapter Recognition Committee and bring national recognition to our chapter. A big thank you to the 2021 ATD-LA leadership team, our office administrators and volunteers for their contributions to our success!

On a global note, be sure to check out the opportunity to volunteer at the ATD Global International Conference to be held in Orlando, Florida from May 15-18, 2022. This conference is attended by over 10,000 professionals from all over the world, and for every day you volunteer, you are eligible to attend the conference for free. For more information please contact Valerie Quezada our Volunteer Director at volunteers@atdla.org or visit https://www.atdvolunteers.org/.

As always, we have an outstanding line-up of programs and networking sessions, including our in-person summer mixer on July 21 at The Lab Gastropub near USC. We look forward to seeing you at our events and meetings!

— Kavita Gupta

ATD Awards ATD-LA With “Chapter of the Month” Honor

ATD-LA — Wed, 23 Feb 2022 20:00:00 GMT

The Los Angeles Chapter (ATD-LA) of the Association for Talent Development (ATD) was selected as the March 2022 ATD Chapter of the Month.

This award recognizes the chapter for its many accomplishments, including Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE) achievement, Sharing Our Success (SOS) submission acceptance, and overall chapter strength, growth, and innovation.

ATD-LA won the award for achieving CARE for 2021 and submitting an SOS best practice for “A Successful Bi-Annual Strategic Planning Process,” prepared by President Kavita Gupta. The Chapter Recognition Committee was impressed with this submission because of its unique two-part approach to strategic planning, strong documentation, and impressive results.

Thank you to the ATD-LA Board of Directors and former board members Anna Halbur and Sara Padilla-Casillas!

ATD Recognizes the Los Angeles Chapter in Its “Sharing Our Success” Program

ATD-LA — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 20:00:00 GMT

The Los Angeles Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (ATD-LA) was recognized for its submission to the ATD “Sharing Our Success” (SOS) program. The national SOS program identifies best practices among local ATD chapters and uses them as models for other chapters.

Shelby Morris, Chair of ATD’s Chapter Recognition Committee said, "This recognition honors the Los Angeles Chapter’s best practice that demonstrates its commitment to managing a successful organization as well as advancing the talent development profession at the local level. We are honored to recognize the chapter with ATD's SOS recognition."

ATD-LA’s SOS submission is titled “A Successful Bi-Annual Strategic Planning Process,” prepared by President Kavita Gupta. By creating two strategic planning meetings in fall and winter, chapter leadership was able to create action plans for each area that contained objectives each director and the president would strive to accomplish during the year. This submission empowers chapter leadership to develop as leaders by putting on their strategic thinking hats, envisioning goals and objectives for the chapter and its members, and putting these into action.

Applications for 2022 ATD-LA Mentor Program now open!

ATD-LA — Sat, 12 Feb 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Applications for the 2022 ATD-LA Mentor Program are now open!

Looking for guidance and feedback on how to meet your career goals for next year? Want to give back to the ATD-LA community by supporting your peers in their professional endeavors? If you’ve answered yes to one of these questions, we welcome your application to join this year’s cohort as either a Mentor or a Mentee!

Below is a description of the program, key dates, and links to the applications. Mentoring is a formal relationship between two people, one more experienced than the other, focused on professional and career development. Pairs will engage in purposeful and regular meetings to create career goals, share industry expertise, offer feedback and ensure progress to mutually determined outcomes.

The ATD-LA Mentor Team will accept applications, create matches and host a program orientation for this year’s cohort. Mentors and Mentees will then meet once a month from April through October, with support from the ATD-LA Mentor Team as needed.

Applications open: Now!

Applications close: February 18

Match Notifications: March 12

Mentor Program Orientation: March 30

Mentor/Mentee Meetings: April – October

Mentor Application: https://forms.gle/LhhP5AhTJDAvsMJQ9

Mentee Application: https://forms.gle/uCbmFr7TMwDfnYLf7

If you have any questions about the program, please contact mentor@atdla.org.

2021 Employee Learning Week

ATD-LA — Wed, 19 Jan 2022 20:00:00 GMT

A big thank you to all those who participated in Employee Learning Week (ELW) in December 2021! We are proud to share that Valerie Quezada, Instructional Designer at Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, won a Champion of Learning Award for her efforts to promote learning and development at her company from December 6 to 10, 2021. Special thanks also to board member Mariam Manukyan for her efforts in streamlining and creating a structured ELW process for the chapter.

Got Social Media Skills? Join the 2022 ATD-LA Leadership Team!

ATD-LA — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 20:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA is currently looking for a Social Media Manager to join the 2022 Leadership Team.

The Social Media Manager manages all social media communications with potential and existing members, increases member participation in these outlets, and creates high levels of satisfaction among users.

Volunteers make up the heart of the ATD-Los Angeles Chapter, and the chapter wouldn't be possible without the hard work and effort of our volunteer community.

If you are interested in volunteering with ATD-LA, please reach out to Valerie Quezada at volunteers@atdla.org.

January President’s Message

ATD-LA — Sat, 01 Jan 2022 20:00:00 GMT

Greetings and Happy New Year! On behalf of the board and volunteers we wish each and every one of you a great year and health, wealth and happiness in 2022.

As you know, the leadership team worked hard in the fall of 2021 to put together a wonderful line up of virtual programs and events. So please be sure to check out our offerings at www.atdla.org and make learning and professional development a top goal for yourself this year.

I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome all of our new members, especially our newest members from Herbalife Nutrition. Thanks to long-time member and valued corporate partner, Khristina Keleshian. Herbalife now has 15 members as part of their group membership with ATD-LA. If you are interested in a new individual membership, please be sure to consider the KG Grant that offers a one-year complimentary membership for students and those in transition. For more information contact Denise Ross at office@atdla.org.

Finally, we would not be able to do what we do without our great team of volunteers. If you are interested in joining our team, please contact Valerie Quezada, Volunteer Director at volunteers@atdla.org.

As always, stay safe and healthy and see you soon at a webinar, chapter meeting, orientation, mentor program information meeting or special interest group meeting!

— Kavita Gupta

Holiday Office Closure

ATD-LA — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 20:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA volunteers, directors, and office staff will be taking a break between December 24 and 31. We wish you a happy holiday! See you in 2022!

ATD-LA Member Survey: How should we meet in 2022?

ATD-LA — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Members, your chapter needs your vote! Will you commit to in-person meetings, OR do you prefer to keep our meetings virtual for 2022?

In response to hearing members speak of Zoom fatigue, the board worked hard to secure meeting rooms for the in-person 2022 chapter meetings, at a cost. Yet, RSVPs to our first three in-person events (January - March) have been surprisingly low.

We need to know ASAP if we should revert to virtual meetings. Please let us know. This survey is open until 12/6/21.

Click here to access the survey: https://forms.gle/r5b92HXSrteimN5w9

Black Friday Deal: $50 Off New Individual ATD-LA Membership!

ATD-LA — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 20:00:00 GMT

$50 off your first year of New Individual Membership

That's our lowest price of the year!

Offer valid from November 26 to December 3

Use promo code BFRIDAY2021

November President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 03 Nov 2021 19:00:00 GMT

It is with pleasure and gratitude that I have the honor of recognizing the following for their outstanding contribution to ATD-LA in 2021. The chapter wouldn't be possible without the hard work and effort of our volunteer community. Our board, leaders, managers and volunteers serve pro bono. As leaders in the field, we rely on the community to step up and lead the programs and events. Congratulations to all our award winners who will be recognized at the Holiday Party on December 2!

President’s Award

Given at the discretion of the President of ATD-LA to a board member(s) in recognition of high performance and extraordinary efforts.

Anna Halbur, CFO ATD-LA, CFO Foundation for Affordable Housing.

Sara Padilla-Casillas, Secretary ATD-LA, Manager HR Innovation & Solutions, USC

Valerie Quezada, Volunteer Director ATD-LA, Instructional System Designer, Takeda

Honor Member

Given by the Board of Directors to someone who is not already a member of ATD-LA and who has made a significant impact on the Chapter as a presenter(s).

Scott Millward, Managing Partner Russ Allen Consulting Leadership and Secretary, ATD Board of Directors

Heather Davidson, Senior Program Manager Learning & Development, Amazon

Lifetime Award

Given by the Board of Directors for outstanding contributions to the profession and ATD-LA over many years to someone who is not a board member at the time of the award determination.

Anthony Lewis, ATD-LA Member since 2002, Past President 2015-16, and Mentor Program Administrator since 2008, Senior Director People Development & Organizational Effectiveness, Universal Music Group

Frank Rabwin Memorial Leadership Award

Given by the Board of Directors for significant leadership contributions to the Chapter consisting of involvement in several projects.

Mariam Manukyan, Member-at-Large, ATD-LA, People Advisory Services, Ernst & Young

Princess Walsh, Director Workshops & Webinars ATD-LA, Professor & Course Coordinator, Pepperdine University

Directors’ Distinguished Service Award

Given by the Board of Directors for outstanding contributions to the Chapter during the past year as a board member.

Anupa Naik, Member-at-Large and Director Communities of Practice ATD-LA, CEO, Smartwork! Inc.

Special Interest Group Leader of the Year

Recognizing Special Interest Group leaders and their efforts since 2009.

Susan Gabriele, South Bay Geographic Interest Group ATD-LA Leader since 2009, Owner, Gabriele Educational Materials & Systems

Anthony Markovich, Former South Bay Geographic Interest Group ATD-LA Leader, Director Talent Development Partner, DISQO

Jonathan Troper, Former Organizational Development Special Interest Group ATD-LA Leader and Member since 1995, Director Center for Innovation & Change, Alliant International University

Scott Wimer, Former Organizational Development Special Interest Group ATD-LA Leader and Member since 1983, Principal, Wimer Associates

Volunteer(s) of the Year

Given by the Board of Directors for outstanding contributions in a volunteer capacity to the Chapter during the past year to someone who is not a board member at the time of the award determination.

2021

John Zupancic, Social Media Manager ATD-LA, Learning & Development Consultant, Golden Dog Creative

Guy Morgenshtern, Orientation Manager ATD-LA, Instructional Designer, Geosyntec

Recognition

Special recognition to a member, corporation, or other partner.

USC Rossier School of Education, Partner and Venue Host since 2019

Logix Federal Credit Union, Corporate Member since 2009

Kinecta Federal Credit Union, Corporate Member since 2015

Denise Ross, Office Administrator ATD-LA since 2011, Owner, More Than Just Words

Grant Skakun, Office Administrator ATD-LA since 2015, Copy Editor, Eucrest Writing

Volunteers

Christina Boryk, Mentor Program Administrator ATD-LA, Project Manager, St. Charles Consulting Group Cornell University

Kevin Kwan, Mentor Program Administrator ATD-LA, Senior Technology Manager, Learning & Development Panda Restaurant Group

James McKenna, Mentor Program Administrator ATD-LA, Assistant Director, California Collaborative for Excellence in Education

Michelle Yang, SoCal Young Professionals Special Interest Group ATD-LA, Talent Development Specialist, DISQO

Nairee Bedikian, SoCal Young Professionals Special Interest Group ATD-LA, Specialist Talent, Learning & Inclusion, The Walt Disney Company

Alessaundra Mills, Chapter Meetings Volunteer ATD-LA, Owner & Principal Consultant, Strategic School Solutions, LLC

Candice Sylvia, Chapter Meetings Volunteer ATD-LA, Global Education Director, Henkel

ATD-LA 2022 Board Election: Board Announcement

ATD-LA — Wed, 13 Oct 2021 19:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA welcomes its 2022 Board of Directors!

President: Kavita Gupta
Member-At-Large,Director of Communities of Practice: Anupa Naik
Member-At-Large: Mariam Manukyan
Director of Chapter Meetings: Alessaundra Mills, Ed.D.
Director of Volunteers: Valerie Quezada
Director of Workshops & Webinars: Princess Walsh, PsyD

October President's Message & 2021 Annual Report

ATD-LA — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Members and Friends of the Chapter,

It is with pleasure that I share the 2021 ATD-LA State of the Chapter and Annual Report. Thanks to a dedicated board, volunteers and your support, we had another strong year. I look forward to your continued participation in the chapter. Here’s to a great 2022!

Kavita Gupta

ATD-LA President 2020-2023

COMMUNICATIONS

Increased followership on ATD-LA’s LinkedIn platform by over 13%.

Actively posted over 45 events and announcements on ATD-LA’s LinkedIn platform with almost 1,000 views on select posts.

Averaged 700 web visits/month and 31k impressions on the ATD-LA website. Website visitors include professionals from business development, HR, education, community and social services and program management.

FINANCE

Introduced a Budget Variance Analysis into the chapter’s monthly budget report.

Awarded $500 from the Mira Gold Grant to new board member Princess Walsh, co-created by Lifetime Member, Kenneth Nowack to advance professional career development.

Launched the KG Talent Development Grant in January donated by President Kavita Gupta and awarded 20 membership grants totaling $1,745 to members and non-members.

GOVERNANCE

Introduced a Code of Conduct for board of directors and volunteers.

Achieved 100% Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE).

Updated the election materials on the website and instituted a new board member nomination policy overseen by a Nominations Committee.

Partnered with Diana Mailly, CPA who will be the chapter’s new tax accountant.

Started a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure Central Online Management System for board members target completion date Fall 2022.

Improved chapter leadership best practices with the attendance of 5 incoming chapter leaders at the annual Chapter Leaders Conference hosted by ATD Global.

Revised the Volunteer Recognition Awards to better meet chapter needs with the help of Past President Sean Bloch.

MEMBERSHIP

Increased membership by 6.7% despite the pandemic through the KG Talent Development Grant, strong program offerings, membership drives, and outreach efforts. Maintained our national status as a top 10 largest chapter among 90+ chapters nationwide.

Added a new corporate member, Herbalife Nutrition.

Started a monthly recognition for renewing members in the eweekly newsletter.

Supported several ATD Global Power Membership drives including a Sizzling Summer Special and an upcoming Black Friday Special for chapter members.

Awarded a complimentary certificate from ATD National to board secretary Sara Padilla-Casillas who completed an ATD Certificate in Management Development.

OPERATIONS

Updated the membership database by removing over 1,500 inactive members.

Updated the website and removed outdated information.

Revised advertising and sponsorship rates and received 2 new sponsorships.

Revised the job board and now collaborate with sister chapters in the western region to promote job offerings.

PROGRAMMING

Hosted over 600 members and guests at 40+ chapter meetings, orientations, webinars, workshops and communities of practice and special meetings.

Relaunched the mentor program started by Past President Anthony Lewis after a 5-year hiatus with 29 mentors and mentees.

Relaunched the Annual Volunteer Recognition and Awards program started by past presidents of ATD-LA after almost a decade.

Launched a new SoCal Young Professionals Special Interest Group in collaboration with the Orange County and San Diego chapters.

Co-hosted the International Conference and Exposition (ICE) in Salt Lake City with the Rocky Mountain Chapter and oversaw 50+ volunteers led by Valerie Quezada, ICE Volunteer Coordinator.

Secured proclamations from senior government officials for Employee Learning Week in December.

STRATEGIC PLANNING

Hosted the first Leadership Retreat for 12 board members, office administrators and volunteers.

Held the 5^rd and 6^th leadership strategic planning leadership meetings attended by board members, chapter leaders and office administrators in winter and fall.

Increased leadership involvement by adding 3 new board members and 4 new chapter leaders and volunteers. Identified a president-elect for 2023.

Click Here to enjoy the ATD-LA 2021 year-in-review video.

Thank You Members and Friends of ATD-LA!

ATD-LA 2022 Board Election: Ballot Form

ATD-LA — Wed, 08 Sep 2021 19:00:00 GMT

You will be voting for an ATD-LA Board Member who will begin a two-year term in January.

In accordance with the chapter bylaws, this form includes the names of available positions which will begin a new term. Each active member will have one ballot per election period.

The ATD-LA Board is a very diverse group and values the thoughts and skills of everyone. Our volunteers and board give their time pro bono (not paid). We coordinate the tasks for several learning programs, chapter meetings and membership related projects.

Directions: Please vote for each position listed by choosing the name indicated for the position.

All ballot forms must be submitted by or before the deadline: September 29, 2021 at 5 p.m.

Visit www.atdla.org/page-1819156 for position descriptions.

Click Here for the Ballot

September President’s Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 01 Sep 2021 19:00:00 GMT

As we move into fall, here is a preview of what we have planned.

The bi-annual board and chapter leader strategic planning meeting will be hosted in-person on September 18 with our office administrators. A copy of the 35-page plan will be available only to board members of the chapter by September 15. A state of the chapter and annual report will be sent to all members in our e-weekly by October 1 along with a year-in-review video for you to enjoy.

Five webinars, an orientation for new and prospective members, and a chapter meeting will be held from September to November.

A wrap-up Mentor Program meeting that will recognize all of our mentors and mentees who participated in 2021 will be held on October 11.

A Holiday Party, Volunteer Recognition, and Dinner will be held on Thursday, December 2 from 6:30pm to 9pm at the Marriott Los Angeles Westside in Culver City. I am excited to announce that Scott Millward, former Senior Vice President of Learning & Development and Field Communication at Panera Bread and current member of ATD’s Board of Directors, has graciously offered to be our special guest and will share insights about where ATD is headed in 2022. We will also recognize our valued partners, sponsors, board members, volunteers, and mentors and mentees; give out numerous awards; and welcome the 2022 board and chapter leaders. So be sure to save the date for this fun year-end celebration!

As always, good health until we meet, and have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend!

— Kavita Gupta, President

ATD-LA 2022 Board Election: Nomination Form

ATD-LA — Mon, 02 Aug 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Per the terms of the chapter bylaws, we call for your self-nomination to join the Board of Directors.

You will be nominating an ATD-LA Board Member for a two year term that begins in January. Ballots will be distributed in September.

The ATD-LA Board is a very diverse group and values the thoughts and skills of everyone. Our volunteers and board give their time pro bono (not paid). We coordinate the tasks for several learning programs, chapter meetings and membership related projects.

Board Member Benefits

• A seat on the board of an award winning top tier chapter in the world
• Discounted ATD National Membership savings of over $220
• Discounted chapter membership savings of $35 for renewals and $75 for new members
• Eligibility to receive a Mira Gold award toward professional development for new board members value $500 (only applicable until 2024)
• Complimentary meals at leadership planning meetings held bi-annually, value $50-$75
• Eligibility to attend the ALC chapter leader conference value $175 for virtual conferences and $1200 for in-person conferences
• Complimentary attendance at the Gamification Workshop when offered, value $250
• Mentoring and support from experienced board members
• Opportunities to network among top talent development professionals
• Opportunity to enhance leadership skills
• Prestige of industry recognition

Membership Requirements

Board members are required to maintain membership in the following during their term:

• The Association for Talent Development (td.org), a global nonprofit membership association; and
• The Association for Talent Development, Los Angeles Chapter (atdla.org), a local nonprofit membership association serving Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties.

Code of Ethics & Code of Conduct

All board members are required to abide by a Membership Code of Conduct (https://www.atdla.org/Eligibility) and Board Member Code of Conduct (https://www.atdla.org/resources/Documents/ATD-LA%20Very%20Final%20Code%20of%20Conduct.pdf). Please review both these sections in their entirety before proceeding to the next section.

Directions

You can nominate yourself or another person for as many positions as you wish by using this form.

The open positions for the 2022 ATD-LA Board of Directors are:

President Elect
Director of Chapter Meetings
Director of Membership

Visit www.atdla.org/page-1819156 for position descriptions.

Please submit your Nomination Form before the deadline of August 20, 2021 at 5 p.m.

Click Here to Nominate

Sizzling Summer Sale: $25 Off New Membership

ATD-LA — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Soak up the sun and savings!

Save $25 off new individual membership.

Going on now through September 15.

Click Here and use code: yaysummer

This is for individual memberships only. (Does not apply to power, student or group.)

June President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 19:00:00 GMT

You Asked - We Delivered! I am pleased to announce that for the fourth consecutive year, and after an almost two-year hiatus, we will finally be able to hold in-person chapter meetings at USC in 2022! So please mark your calendars for a great line up of presenters, including our award-winning New Year Brain Exchange and a panel of senior leaders on January 20, February 17, April 14, June 16, July 21 and August 11, 2022. We will follow a hybrid model for chapter meetings, webinars and communities of practice meetings in 2022. Unfortunately, due to many restrictions still in place at our host venues USC and Antioch University, events in the fall will most likely still be offered virtually. Stay tuned for more details in the fall.

As we move into the summer, elections will be held in early August. If you are interested in serving on a committee, please drop an email to Valerie Quezada at volunteers@atdla.org. And if you haven’t signed up for the International Conference and Exposition (ICE) hosted by ATD-LA in Salt Lake City, Utah, please register here and add our Chapter Incentive Program code CH8028 to your registration to help our chapter earn some extra dollars. We currently already have a group discount, so please be sure to take advantage of this special offer and contact Denise at office@atdla.org before you register. ICE will be held August 29th to September 1st and there will be both a virtual and in-person option for the conference this time. You can also volunteer for the conference and attend one day free for every day that you volunteer (offer only good for ATD-LA members - click here for details).

As always, your leadership team works hard to serve you and bring high quality professional development programs, networking and job opportunities. Stay safe and healthy, and see you soon at the June 17 chapter meeting for networking and a presentation by Ken Nowack on 10 Hacks for Successful Goal Setting and Goal Surviving.

— Kavita Gupta, ATD-LA President

Are you taking advantage of the ATD-LA Job Board?

ATD-LA — Mon, 17 May 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Are you taking advantage of the ATD-LA Job Board? Our Job Board is a leading resource for job openings in talent development, learning, instructional design, e-learning, organizational development, training and more. The listings are available to members only, so don’t miss out on this valuable resource!

How to Subscribe to the Job Board

Follow these four easy steps:

Navigate to the Job Board page via the Menu > Resources > Job Board [Direct Link].

Click on the “Click Here” link under the ATD-LA Members headline [Direct Link].

Enter your login information.

Click on “Subscribe to the Forum” [Direct Link].

Voila! After you’ve subscribed to the forum, you will receive notifications about new postings. Look out for an email with the subject line “Daily summary of updates for Job Listings from ATD-Los Angeles.”

Tip #1: Interested in posting a job with us? ATD-LA currently has a growing membership of close to 300 members. Simply fill out the job post form here and one of our staff will add your job to our job board.

Tip #2: Hiring nationally? Also consider the ATD Job Bank. Employers referred by chapters receive a 15 percent discount off the rates, and chapters earn 10 percent commission on the full price. Be sure to enter our chapter’s ChIP code CH8028 when you post a job or search for resumes using the ATD Job Bank: https://jobs.td.org/

May President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 12 May 2021 19:00:00 GMT

I had the pleasure of hosting the first Leadership Retreat for our ATD-LA chapter leadership team and what a blast we had! Great food and a scavenger hunt were topped off with a visit by author, former executive and coach, Caroline Leach, who not only did a book signing, but generously gifted copies of her book to everyone. A big thank you to our 20+ executive committee members, board of directors, office administrators, chapter leaders and volunteers!

I would also like to take this near half-year milestone to reflect on our accomplishments and share them with you. We could not have done this without you, our members!

Weathered the storm created by the pandemic with strong financial reserves.
Welcomed over 45 new individual members 19 of whom received a complimentary membership from the KG Talent Development Grant, and a corporate member, Herbalife.
Hosted over 365 members and guests at chapter meetings, webinars, orientations, communities of practice meetings and mentorship meetings.
Developed strategies, team building and friendships through board and chapter leader leadership strategic planning meetings.
Recruited 25+ chapter leaders and volunteers in the past 3 years since I became president-elect with a retention rate of 81%.
Implemented a new Code of Conduct for chapter leaders and volunteers.
Added over 75 new followers to our LinkedIn social media platform with an average of 20k impressions per month.

ATD-LA continues to be an award-winning top tier chapter! Let us celebrate our successes and keep building on our 75-year history. If you are interested in joining the leadership team and giving back to the learning and development community, contact us at volunteers@atdla.org.

Thank for your continued commitment and support of the chapter, and we look forward to seeing you at upcoming programs and events. Enjoy this slideshow of your chapter leadership team hard at work having fun! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxyM0NcyrG4

April President’s Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege and honor of helping dozens of members and non-members, ranging from students to directors, by offering general counsel on how to structure a resume in the new digital age and guidance on the difference between jobs in instructional design, facilitation, organizational change, and human resources.

Over the next five years, 40%-60% of all companies’ portfolios will shift to online learning. It has become a necessity for talent development professionals to have an understanding of online learning platforms such as Google Classroom, Docebo, WizIQ, Adobe Captivate, Elucidate, Articulate, Shift, Blackboard Learn, Udemy, Teachable, and Chatbots (to name a few), as well as which ones are more adapted to schools versus organizations.

Recognizing the importance of social media in our lives has also become a necessity. 95% of recruiters use platforms such as LinkedIn to vet candidates. 57% of employers are less likely to interview a candidate they can’t find online. And 44% will recruit a candidate based on their social media content (Leach, Caroline, What Successful People do in Social Media, 2019).

Keeping up with the times and staying on top of economic and educational trends have become key ingredients for our success in the marketplace. We must be conversant with the knowledge, skills, and experience that employers and clients need.

Are you equipped to face the demands of our new and changing landscape?

ATD-LA Achieves 100% CARE in 2020

ATD-LA — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 19:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to the 2020 ATD-LA Board for meeting the Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE)! The chapter successfully met all 18 required CARE elements and is recognized for 100 percent achievement of CARE.

Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE) are a set of performance guidelines designed to help chapters deliver consistent benefits to members. CARE consists of elements in five key areas that are necessary for running a chapter like a business: administration, financial, membership, professional development, and communication.

“I’d like to personally acknowledge and thank you and the chapter leadership team for your accomplishments and for going above and beyond the CARE requirement,” said Tony Bingham, president and CEO of the Association for Talent Development. “ATD recognizes that the value you provide to your members through well run chapter programs, services, and exceptional operations is the result of the individual time, resources, innovation, thought, and dedication you and your team contribute.”

March President’s Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 03 Mar 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Happy Spring! I hope that 2021 is off to a good start and you are making headway on the professional and personal goals you established for yourself on January 1! Your board, chapter leaders and volunteers have been working hard, and we have now held six meetings and events, as well as launched the SoCal Young Professionals Special Interest Group in collaboration with the Orange County and San Diego chapters. If you missed out on the information meeting on February 18, please email youngprofessionals@atdla.org for an Interest Form and to be added to the mailing list for updates and information about upcoming initiatives.

The International Conference and Exposition that ATD-LA was slated to host this year finally got moved to Salt Lake City because of the uncertainty around the COVID situation in Los Angeles. The good news is that ATD-LA still retained top priority for volunteers to work at the conference and attend the conference for free! Be sure to check out volunteer opportunities on our website, and get ready to pack your bags for an all immersive learning and networking trip with thousands of talent development professionals in late August!

As always, we are here for any questions or concerns you may have about your membership. Please feel free to drop me a line at president@atdla.org at your convenience and hope to see you at our March events!

New Year, New Inbox!

ATD-LA — Mon, 25 Jan 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Being a subscriber to our email list is one of the best ways to stay up-to-date on everything that ATD-LA has to offer.

If at any time you wish to discontinue receiving our emails, or if you receive them in multiple email accounts and you wish to only receive them in one email account, then you may use the unsubscribe link that is available at the bottom of every email that we send to change your preferences.

We are looking forward to keeping in touch with you throughout 2021!

January President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Greetings and Happy New Year! We have so much to look forward to this year:

The International Conference and Exposition from August 29 to September 1 that we will be hosting with over 250 live sessions and networking opportunities with 7,000+ attendees. Be sure to get a seat virtual or in-person! Details for volunteer opportunities will be coming next month.
A Mentor Program that will be launched on January 21.
A new Young Professionals Group for existing members and non-members under 35 that is in the works. If you are interested in joining this group, please write to youngprofessionals@atdla.org.
Over 40+ upcoming chapter meetings, webinars, workshops, special interest group meetings, networking opportunities and more.

Please stay in tune with ATD-LA, and follow us on LinkedIn (ATD Los Angeles) for the most current news. We also welcome ideas and suggestions for new programs or events, and job postings to share with our community at officeadmin@atdla.org. Hope to see you at our Brain Exchange and New Year Mixer on January 21 to kick off the new year!

The Return of the Mentor Program in 2021

ATD-LA — Wed, 30 Dec 2020 20:00:00 GMT

ATD-LA is excited to announce the return of the Mentor Program for 2021!

Mentoring is a formal relationship between two people, one more experienced than the other, focused on professional and career development. Pairs will engage in purposeful and regular meetings to create career goals, share industry expertise, offer feedback and ensure progress to mutually determined outcomes.

The ATD-LA Mentor Team will accept applications, create the matches and host a formal Meet & Greet of the final pairs and a program orientation. Mentors and Mentees will then meet once a month from April through September 2021. To support the discussions, the ATD-LA Mentor Team will curate and distribute content to all participants.

Registration opens: January 21, 2021

Registration closes: February 11, 2021

Notification of Mentor/Mentee Match: March 11, 2021

Meet and Greet & Orientation: March 2021 (3^rd or 4^th week), TBD

Mentor/Mentee Meetings: April – September 2021

The ATD-LA Mentor Team will provide more details during the Announcements at the January Chapter Meeting.

If you have any additional questions before then, please send your inquiry to mentor@atdla.org

Applications

Mentor Application: https://forms.gle/91oz9j5WBMRMaiib8

Mentee Application: https://forms.gle/FqaNq4Kd8RgYhqYb8

Participant guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1RnHzZKgQbKMMV7RNyDtItVAbr5pMUyxd/view?usp=sharing

Announcing the KG Talent Development Grant

ATD-LA — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 20:00:00 GMT

The KG Talent Development Grant is now available to assist current and past members requiring assistance with the cost of renewing their membership, and to assist non-members with joining ATD-LA. ATD-LA President Kavita Gupta has generously donated $2,500 to fund this grant. ATD-LA relies on a strong active membership and is proud to provide the benefits associated with a worldwide talent development organization.

To be eligible for this grant, applicants must be seeking individual membership as stated under “Membership” on www.atdla.org. Applicants whose employers fund their ATD-LA membership or membership renewal are not eligible.

In addition, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:

Be a current member of ATD-LA whose membership is up for renewal in 2021 and have experienced a job loss or are going through a job transition.
Be a past member of ATD-LA, whose membership expired between April 1, 2020, and today and have experienced a job loss or are going through a job transition.
Be a full time student currently enrolled in a certified graduate program in one of the following disciplines: Human Resources, Training, Talent Development and Instructional Design.
Be a new member interested in joining ATD-LA but are currently experiencing a job loss or going through a job transition.

Should you meet one of the above criteria, you will be eligible to receive a KG Talent Development Grant to solely cover your ATD-LA membership fee. Please write to office@atdla.org if you are interested in receiving a complimentary one-year membership with ATD-LA.

December President’s Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 09 Dec 2020 20:00:00 GMT

2020 - What a year it has been! Ups and downs, highs and lows, uncertainty and unrest and the list goes on … but we all survived the challenge! We are stronger today than we were nine months ago, and I am truly grateful to you for your continued support of the chapter. Whether you are a host for our virtual or in-person meetings, a corporate group member or individual member, a new member, or friend of the chapter, muchas gracias, grazie, vielen dank, dhanyavad! And to the chapter leadership team, volunteers and our office administrators, my deepest gratitude for the gift of your time. For those of you that missed our meeting last week, here are a few highlights….

Thank You 2020 Hosts and Corporate Members!

Alliant University, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Antioch University, Child Care Resource Center, City of Los Angeles World Airports, Goldman Melcher & Co., Grifols, Integrity Management & Consulting Group, LLC, ISPI SoCal, Kinecta Federal Credit Union, L.A. Care Health Plan, Logix Federal Credit Union, USC Rossier School of Education and Wimer Associates

And Congratulations 2020 Award Winners!

President’s Award - Given at the discretion of the President of ATD-LA to recognize high performance and extraordinary efforts.

Dr. Danielle Jenkins, Founder, Integrity Management & Consulting Group, LLC

Danielle Baines, Senior Training Administrator, DocMagic, Inc.

Torch Award - Given by the Board of Directors to non-board members for outstanding contributions to the Chapter over the span of many years at the time of the award determination.

Kenneth Nowack, President & Chief Research Officer, Envisia Learning, Inc.

Special Interest Group Leader Award - Given by the Board of Directors for outstanding contributions to the Chapter during the past year to someone who is not a board member at the time of the award determination.

Esther Ramirios-Mathews, Founder, Adult Education & Workforce Learning Group, LLC

Stay safe and stay healthy during the holiday season, all the very best to you and your families, and see you in the new year!

Black Friday Deal: $50 Off New Individual ATD-LA Membership!

ATD-LA — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 20:00:00 GMT

$50 off your first year of New Individual Membership

That's our lowest price of the year!

Offer valid from November 25 to December 4

Use promo code BFRIDAY2020

Click to Join

November President's Message

ATD-LA — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 20:00:00 GMT

Please join me in congratulating and welcoming our 2021 chapter leadership! We look forward to serving our members and friends of the chapter by providing high quality programs and job and networking opportunities. Join us at the December 3 Chapter Meeting at 6:30pm to meet your 2021 chapter leaders and office administrators, and be sure to check out our preliminary Spring 2021 schedule of programs!

October President’s Message

ATD-LA — Thu, 01 Oct 2020 19:00:00 GMT

This month I am pleased to recognize the collaborative efforts of our leadership team and office administrators to present the ATD-LA 2020 State of the Chapter and Achievements:

FINANCE

Developed a Finance & Expense policy for board members
Created a budget to actual YTD projection analysis
Released the Mira Gold Fund after 25 years and will award two $500 grants annually for new board member professional development from 2020-2024
Reduced bank fees 50% by migrating to a more cost-efficient merchant services platform

GOVERNANCE

Updated 2015 bylaws and 12 position descriptions
Developed an onboarding orientation program for new board members and volunteers

MEMBERSHIP

Started monthly new member welcome and recognition in weekly e-newsletter
Gained over 65 new members but overall membership declined by 10% as a result of the pandemic
Offered 4 membership specials including a Valentine’s Day, Summer New Member Special, Fall Member Renewal Special and a Fall ATD Member Week in partnership with ATD Global
Awarded 2 ATD Global online certificate programs to chapter leaders Anupa Naik and Katrina Reiniers-Jackson

OPERATIONS

Reduced operational costs adding $3,000 to financial reserves
Reduced Constant Contact list by over 70% percent reducing annual fees by 50%
Migrated from Go-to-Meetings to Zoom platform reducing costs by 68%

PROGRAMMING

Started a monthly president’s message for members in the e-weekly newsletter
Offered 40+ orientations, chapter meetings, networking mixers including one in partnership with SoCal chapters, webinars, workshops and communities of practice meetings
Moved to virtual programming using the Zoom platform versus in-person meetings for the first time in ATD-LA’s 75-year history as a result of the pandemic

SOCIAL MEDIA and TECHNOLOGY

Gained 25% followers on ATD-LA’s LinkedIn platform with a total of 589 followers
Actively posted over 45 events and announcements on ATD-LA’s LinkedIn platform
Averaged 700 web visits/month and 31k impressions on the ATD-LA website
Website visitors include professionals from business development, HR, education, community and social services and program management
Developed a social media policy for chapter leaders and volunteers
Updated website and removed outdated information

STRATEGIC PLANNING

Held 3^rd and 4^th leadership strategic planning meetings attended by board members and office administrators in winter and fall
Increased leadership involvement by adding 5 new chapter leader positions and 12 volunteers

ATD-LA 2021 Board Election: Ballot Form

ATD-LA — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Click here for the ballot form.

ATD Member Week 2020

ATD-LA — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 19:00:00 GMT

September 14–18 is ATD’s Member Week, a seven-day savings event that will deliver exclusive deals!

During this week, ATD-LA will offer 10 percent off of a one-year individual membership.

ATD will also offer 10 percent off a one-year power membership, in addition to the current $30 discount.

There is no better time to become an ATD-LA Member or an ATD Power Member!

Coming in 2021...

ATD-LA — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 16:15:46 GMT

Leading experts in their fields! Topics include:

Brain Exchange and New Year Networking Mixer
Change your Mind Create New Results
How to Use Level 3 and Level 4 Evaluations Effectively
And more

Learn from senior L&D professionals from world class companies like Amazon and Facebook. Stay tuned for more details!

Renewal Special Offer: Three Bonus Membership Months

ATD-LA — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Is your ATD-LA membership coming up for renewal?

Take advantage of this special offer!

If your renewal date falls between the months of August and December, your next year’s membership will include three free bonus months – 15 months for the price of 12!

To redeem this offer, please contact the office.

Renew now! This offer ends October 31.

ATD-LA 2021 Board Election: Nomination Form

ATD-LA — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Per the terms of the chapter bylaws, we call for your self-nomination to join the Board of Directors.

You will be nominating an ATD-LA Board Member for a two year term that begins in January. Ballots will be distributed in September.

Directions: You can nominate yourself or another person for as many positions as you wish by using this form.

Positions with terms beginning in 2021

President Elect
Treasurer
Director of Workshops & Webinars
Member-at-Large
Secretary
Director of Marketing & Communications
Director of Membership

Visit www.atdla.org/page-1819156 for position descriptions.

All Nomination Forms must be submitted by or before the deadline: August 21, 2020, 5 p.m.

Click Here for the form.

August President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 05 Aug 2020 19:00:00 GMT

1995 seems like a long time ago. Yes, it was in 1995 that a memorial fund was established by Ken Nowack, now Chief Research Officer of Envisia Learning, Inc. and members of the ATD-LA chapter in honor of a very special person, Mira Gold, former late wife of Ken and ATD-LA member. I am honored to share that after 25 years, new ATD-LA board members will receive a generous grant that will allow them to undertake a professional development program thanks to the Mira Gold Memorial Fund established by Ken Nowack and members of the chapter back in 1995. Here is what Ken wanted to share.

Mira began her long volunteer involvement with ATD-LA as co-chair of the Career Development Special Division with Amy (Clement) Lichty in the late 1970s. She was a seasoned learning and development consultant and specialist in the career management field, working as a career consultant for Northrop before starting a career skills center and program at the Los Angeles Times. Her career as a consultant with Lee Hecht Harrison was cut short with a brief battle with cancer at the age of 40.

Mira met her husband Ken Nowack while they were both working at the University of California, Davis, before moving to Los Angeles to work as an HR consultant for Flying Tigers Airline that was acquired by FedEx. She was born in Harrisburg, PA and Mira did her undergraduate work at the University of Pittsburgh, followed by graduate studies at Indiana University where she obtained her master’s degree in College Student Personnel. Mira and Ken were married for 14 years and lived in the San Fernando Valley. She was a talented trainer, consultant, and career development professional that modeled empathy, compassion, and support to those she touched in her delivery of career services.

We are truly grateful to Ken Nowack and his family for their generous gift to ATD-LA in support of Mira’s devotion to professional and career development. Special thanks also go to our CFO Anna Halbur, OD Chapter Leader Scott Wimer, and 2012 Past President Sean Bloch for their help and input in facilitating the release of the Mira Gold Memorial Fund for the benefit of chapter board members. If you or your organization would like to make a gift to ATD-LA, please contact Anna Halbur at cfo@atdla.org.

Bylaws Updates: Vote on August 13

ATD-LA — Tue, 14 Jul 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Every five to ten years, it is common practice for our chapter to make updates to the ATD-LA bylaws in order to better reflect the practices and procedures necessary to keep the chapter running smoothly and serve our membership. The bylaws were last updated in April 2015 and are once again undergoing review.

At the July ATD-LA Board of Directors meeting, the board voted to approve updates to the bylaws. These proposed changes will be presented at the August 13 chapter meeting and all current ATD-LA members in attendance will be invited to vote on their approval.

Proposed changes to the bylaws include:

- Updating board member positions and titles, including the addition of Director of Workshops, Director of Webinars, and Director of Special Interest Groups positions.

- Modifying the timing of key annual meetings to better accommodate the chapter calendar.

- Adopting processes and procedures to better allow us to function in a more virtual world, necessitated in many ways by the Covid-19 crisis.

- Aligning the bylaws with the current official name of the ATD-Global organization (changing from ATD National to ATD Global).

All proposed changes will be made available at the August 13 chapter meeting. In the meantime, if members have questions or comments on anything related to the bylaws updates, they are welcome to contact ATD-LA secretary, Annie Liao at secretary@atdla.org.

Chapter Incentive Program (ChIP)

ATD-LA — Wed, 08 Jul 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Help earn revenue for ATD-LA at no extra cost to you!

Be sure to select our chapter’s name or ChIP code (CH8028) from the dropdown menu at checkout when purchasing an ATD product, membership, conference or program registration at www.td.org.

July President’s Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 01 Jul 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Diversity training, cultural awareness programs, and learning and development forums that are focused on inclusion may be new to some of us. But as talent development professionals and members of the global ATD community, it is our job to offer programs that cover ATD’s Talent Development Capability Model, which lists Cultural Awareness and Inclusion as one of the 7 capabilities that help individuals Build Personal Capability in the workplace.

Recent events in our neighborhoods and around the world have heightened the need to bring more awareness to this capability. Be sure to check out the ATD Diversity and Inclusion Resources put together by ATD that includes blog posts, articles, and webcasts to help you create programs that celebrate differences between individuals irrespective of race, religion, or color. A New Look at D&I: Interview With Michelle P. King, daughter of Martin Luther King, by ATD staff member Lisa Spinelli addresses important questions such as “Why do diversity and inclusion programs fail? What are they missing?” and “What do talent development and HR professionals not understand about the difference between diversity and inclusion?”

In closing, as we embrace summer and start enjoying our quarantine freedom, let us not forget that we are still embroiled in a pandemic and must continue to follow CDC guidelines. Stay safe and healthy and a Happy July 4^th to you and your family!

ATD-LA Membership and Program Offering Update

ATD-LA — Wed, 24 Jun 2020 19:00:00 GMT

Dear Members and Friends,

Thank you for being a valued member and friend of the Association for Talent Development Los Angeles chapter. I hope that you have enjoyed learning from the multitude of programs we offer and connected with fellow colleagues or made new friends through our virtual and in-person events.

I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on the status of our program offerings for 2020. As you know, the pandemic has caused a great deal of disruption. Many venues, including USC and Antioch University that are our host venues for in-person workshops and chapter meetings, have enforced strict requirements that have precluded us from hosting in-person events on their campuses. As a result, we have had to move all of our programs to a virtual platform. This will be effective throughout the rest of 2020.

We apologize for any inconvenience that this has caused, but I want to assure you that we have made a smooth transition from in-person to virtual programs, and the quality of our programs still remains of the highest standards. We are also offering pre- and post-chapter meeting virtual networking opportunities. So please be sure to check out the calendar and save the dates for upcoming chapter meetings, webinars, special interest group meetings and the August 5 Member Networking Mixer.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me at president@atdla.org. We look forward to your continued participation in ATD-LA. And if you are interested in volunteering or serving on a committee, please contact Valerie Quezada at volunteers@atdla.org.

Stay safe and healthy and best wishes to you and your family!

Sincerely,

Kavita Gupta

ATD-LA President

June President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 03 Jun 2020 19:00:00 GMT

It is hard to believe that we are almost half way into 2020 which will always be etched in our minds as the year of the pandemic. What is most heartening is that YOU, our valued members and friends of the chapter, still continue to invest in your professional development through lifelong learning.

Attendance at our chapter meetings and webinars has been steady averaging 25-50 participants at each event. While all of us miss the personal touch of meeting our colleagues, sharing stories, or exchanging laughs over drinks and dinner at chapter meetings, all is not lost! Virtual lunch and learns, mixers, and our evening chapter meetings still offer a great way to network, meet new people and make new connections for professional or job opportunities.

Please be sure to check out our calendar as we have a full schedule of events and programs lined up for you, and reach out to a fellow member through the membership directory or board member by dropping a line to say hello. Stay connected, and bring a friend to an event. As always, stay safe and healthy!

May President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 06 May 2020 17:55:05 GMT

Save the Date! Next May 23-26, 2021, Los Angeles will be the proud host city for the ATD Global International Conference and Exposition. Did you know that the world needs more than 1 billion people reskilled by 2030? We are the masters of this challenge, so be sure to join over 10,000 professionals from around the globe that will visit our city to participate in over 300 sessions, at the world’s largest learning and development conference along with 400+ vendors!

Led by our Volunteer Coordinator, Valerie Quezada and in partnership with ATD Global headquartered in Virginia, Alexandria, Valerie will oversee 450+ volunteers from all over the world. All of us will have an opportunity to volunteer, and a website dedicated to the conference will open up in January 2021 for you to sign up and volunteer.

Sadly, the International Conference scheduled in Denver this year from May 17-21 was canceled because of the pandemic. Let us get through these challenging times and look forward to better times. As always, learning never ends so invest in your chapter, and ATD Global, and avail of all the online and in-person opportunities that can help you in your career at www.atdla.org or td.org. Stay safe and stay healthy!

Thank You to Our Volunteers!

ATD-LA — Wed, 22 Apr 2020 19:00:00 GMT

New Member Specials Through June 30th!

ATD-LA — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 23:30:07 GMT

New Member Specials!

Special #1

Join the ATD-Los Angeles Chapter, between now and June 30, and take advantage of these special rates:

· Individual Member $100 (savings of 20%)

· Student/Academic $40 (savings of 20%)

· Company Bundles Save 10% - Pricing based on number of team members. Call Denise for this offer.

(This offer excludes Power Members (members of both ATD and the chapter))

No coupon required. The Individual and Student/Academic rates are already reduced on our join page.

Special #2

Become a Power Member at a reduced rate as well. Join ATD Global by April 4 and save an additional $20, if you are an ATD-LA member. Use code Member20 at checkout at td.org or call 800.628.2783. And remember to give them our Chapter Code CH8028.

If you have questions about either of these offers, contact Denise at office@atdla.org or 562/908-3020.

Join today, invest in your professional development and take advantage of our special offers!

April President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 01 Apr 2020 22:15:33 GMT

As part of an online webinar that I co-hosted for the USC Online Masters’ Learning Design and Technology program, here are ten top trends in L&D that I summarized from Forbes, the TD magazine and Training Magazine:

1. People will need to learn at the speed of business as skill gaps are increasing.

2. Blended learning - a module will include a combination of blended learning methods such as YouTube video, classroom training, Mooc, lab or FB group in the workplace to impart training.

3. ATAWAD – Anytime, Anywhere, Any Device training that uses shorter content, subtitles, mobile apps and eLearning will be the name of the game. ELearning is a $180b business.

4. While ADDIE will still stay mainstream, SAM (Successive Approximation Model) will also become commonplace. Instructional designers will need to improvise and become agile.

5. Storytelling and humor, micro learning, social media tools to implement mass customization, just-in-time training for millennials who learn differently, and distance learning with globalization and distributed teams will increase.

6. Virtual Reality including Artificial Reality, videos, VR headsets and immersive training for product launch or virtual training will increase as will the use of artificial intelligence

7. People skills such as emotional intelligence, collaboration and negotiation will become essential skills for L&D professionals. Learners will require 3 critical skills in the future: learn and unlearn, digital and data fluency and learn to problem solve creatively.

8. Leadership skills will focus on change management, building coalitions, critical thinking and problem solving.

9. Facilitators will need to become coaches as class sizes shrink.

10. Demand for big data skills will increase requiring employees to analyze large amounts of data.

ATD-LA Recognized as a Chapter Membership STAR

ATD-LA — Mon, 23 Mar 2020 07:00:00 GMT

Congratulations to the 2019 ATD-LA Board for meeting the Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE)! The chapter successfully met all 18 required CARE elements and is recognized for 100 percent achievement of CARE.

ATD-LA was also recognized as a Chapter Membership STAR with joint membership between 45-50 percent.

“I’d like to personally acknowledge and thank you and the chapter leadership team for your accomplishments and for going above and beyond the CARE requirement,” said Tony Bingham, president and CEO of the Association for Talent Development. “ATD recognizes that the value you provide to your members through well run chapter programs, services, and exceptional operations is the result of the individual time, resources, innovation, thought, and dedication you and your team contribute.”

March President's Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 04 Mar 2020 08:00:00 GMT

Call for Volunteers!

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” — Winston Churchill

Volunteering is a great way for new people to meet others who share the same interests, give back to a community or organization, learn new skills, share old skills or experiences, grow into leadership positions and have fun along the way. The ATD-LA chapter needs you! Can you give a few hours per month? We need help with chapter meetings, membership and marketing. Come join a Top 10 chapter! For more information, please contact Kavita Gupta at president@atdla.org.

February President’s Message

ATD-LA — Wed, 05 Feb 2020 23:54:37 GMT

Thank You, Partners

We are grateful to our partners that support the chapter by providing venues for meetings: Alliant International University, American Honda, Antioch University, Farmers Insurance, Integrity Management & Consulting, Child Care Resource Center, the USC Rossier School of Education and Wimer Associates.

Promote Your Brand

Did you know that you can promote your brand through ATD-LA and reach a wide range of leaders in the learning and development community for as little as $250?

Here’s how our advertising and sponsorship opportunities can help you:

ATD-LA is a non-profit organization - some or all of your sponsorship dollars may be tax deductible.
Expose your company’s brand to a broad range of industry thought leaders, influencers and experts through our events and programs.
Maximize your company’s products and services by reaching your target market of practitioners who have a need for it.

For more information on marketing opportunities please visit https://www.atdla.org/Advertise or contact Sheri Winter, Marketing Director at marketing@atdla.org.

Message from Incoming President, Kavita Gupta

Grant Skakun — Wed, 11 Dec 2019 23:12:00 GMT

On behalf of the 2019 board, a BIG THANK YOU to everyone who volunteered their time and talent for ATD-LA this year! Our chapter's success is because of our dedicated and hardworking volunteers. Special thanks go to volunteers Danielle Baines, Vince Budrovich, Sue Gabriele, Katrina Reiniers-Jackson, Anupa Naik, Anthony Markovich, Guy Morgenshtern, Phillip Potter, Andrea Proctor, Esther Ramirios, Jonathan Troper, Ravi Trivedi, Princess Walsh and Scott Wimer.

And a Special Welcome to our new 2020 BOARD Members and Chapter Leaders. Welcome to the team!

Angela Anable, Volunteer Director

Anna Halbur, Chief Financial Officer

Anupa Naik, Member-at-Large

Phillip Potter, Membership Director

Sheri Winter, Marketing Director

Katrina Reiniers-Jackson, Social Media Manager

Volunteer Spotlight: Ben Sieke

Grant Skakun — Mon, 09 Dec 2019 22:48:59 GMT

Member since

2013

Professional role/position

Manager, Talent Development and Learning at Delta Dental

ATD-LA volunteer role/position

Chapter President

Why do you volunteer for ATD-LA?

When I first began volunteering for the chapter in 2015, it was to give back and to stay engaged - I knew that I would attend meetings more regularly, for example, if I was a volunteer. Over time, I realized that the relationships you build here are truly priceless. It's been a true pleasure to give back to our professional community alongside our amazing members and volunteers.

Favorite ATD-LA memory

Our chapter meeting in February 2019, where many of our past Presidents and former board members were in attendance, was a special moment. Hearing about how their service to the chapter had changed their lives and the lives of so many other members was a testament to the importance of the work that we do as chapter volunteers.

A Message of Thanks from the President

Grant Skakun — Wed, 27 Nov 2019 19:45:44 GMT

With Thanksgiving upon us and with the end of the year and of my three-year presidency approaching, I find myself in an especially thankful mood when I reflect on ATD-LA. There’s so much to be grateful for!

I’m thankful for our members, the core of ATD Los Angeles. The diversity of our 300+ members is astounding, comprising a cross section of professionals from across Southern California practicing as coaches, trainers, consultants, people leaders, and instructional designers, among other roles. Some are new to our work, others have a lifetime of experience; all share a passion for helping people be more effective in their work through growth and development. Whether through sharing best practices, sharing career opportunities, sharing experience through mentoring, or just sharing our time and insight with one another at chapter events, we’re lucky to have each other.

I’m thankful for our volunteers, who are the lifeblood of our chapter. To our outgoing board members, Margeaux and Carol, I share my thanks for your service to the chapter. To our new and continuing board members, SIG and GIG leaders, and volunteers, I share my excitement for the future and my gratitude for your willingness to lead our chapter in 2020 and beyond. To my successor, Kavita, I share my best wishes for success in your term as Chapter President and my sincere thanks for the many contributions you’ve made as a member of our leadership team since late last year. This organization is richer because of the contributions of our many volunteers!

I’m thankful for our office staff, Denise Ross and Grant Skakun. I could share endless stories about their contributions to our organization, but let it suffice to say that they are the too-often-unsung heroes of this organization. I’ll miss our weekly team meetings and I can’t thank you enough for the outstanding work that you do on behalf of our board and our members.

Last, but not least, I’m thankful for the opportunities that ATD-LA creates for its members. I’ve met so many incredible people over the last several years, learned so much about our work and about our community, and, perhaps most importantly, got my (awesome) current job through relationships I’ve made with board members I’ve served under and with over the years. I hear so many similar stories from so many members that make me feel fortunate to be a member and proud to be a leader here.

I hope you are as thankful as I am for the wonderful organization that we’re a part of and the special people that make it what it is. If you’re not, I encourage you to get involved in volunteering and mark your calendar with some of our upcoming events.

With gratitude,

Ben Sieke
ATD Los Angeles President 2017-2019

Volunteer Spotlight: Carol Ring

Grant Skakun — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 19:57:58 GMT

Member since

2014

Professional role/position

Instructional Design Consultant for Southern California Edison

ATD-LA volunteer role/position

Co-Director of Learning and Events

Why do you volunteer for ATD-LA?

I volunteer for ATD-LA because of the opportunity to make an impact within my community of talent development professionals. I enjoy connecting with like minded people who want to grow their skills, education and experience. My role as Co-Director of Learning and Event provides the perfect vehicle for me to do just that by planning and executing webinars and workshops that fit our membership's needs. I am always open to hearing from our members with any suggestions they may have or even just a friendly chat. Please contact me at anytime at webinarmanager@atdla.org.

Favorite ATD-LA memory

Riding up in an elevator, upon attending an ATD-LA chapter meeting, I realized I was talking to a person I had a phone interview with for a job. I ended up with a different job but it just goes to show you that you never know where your connections will come from.

ATD Awards ATD-LA with “Chapter of the Month” Honor

Grant Skakun — Fri, 06 Sep 2019 23:30:54 GMT

The Los Angeles Chapter (ATD-LA) of the Association for Talent Development (ATD), formerly ASTD, was named an ATD Chapter of the Month (COM) for September 2019. The COM is national recognition for ATD local chapters that have demonstrated strength, growth, and innovation in managing their chapter.

Elizabeth Beckham, chair of ATD’s Chapter Recognition Committee, which awards the Chapter of the Month, said, ‘‘This distinguished award recognizes the Los Angeles Chapter for demonstrating unique approaches that provide value to their members, other ATD chapter, and professionals within the talent development industry. The Los Angeles Chapter is a leader in providing development opportunities to their members and other ATD chapter leaders by sharing best practices and encouraging leaders to learn and grow from each other. We are honored to recognize the chapter with ATD’s Chapter of the Month award.”

ATD-LA achieved CARE (Chapter Affiliation Requirements) for 2018 led by President Ben Sieke. In addition, a Sharing Our Success (SOS) submission, “Navigating SHRM Credit Process and Job Aid” prepared by President-Elect and Director Chapter Meetings Kavita Gupta, and Office Administrator Grant Skakun was recognized as a best practice.

Volunteer Spotlight: Margeaux Sullivan

Grant Skakun — Fri, 06 Sep 2019 22:38:17 GMT

Member since:

2017

Professional role/position:

Management Consultant

ATD-LA volunteer role/position:

Director of Marketing and Communications

Why do you volunteer for ATD-LA?

Talent Development is the lifeblood of a company. Successful businesses are the result of effective leadership and teamwork in all levels of the organization.

Favorite ATD-LA memory:

Participating in Pepperdine Graziadio Business School's Nonprofit Board Mixer with fellow ATD-LA board members

Volunteer Spotlight: Guy Morgenshtern

Grant Skakun — Wed, 07 Aug 2019 18:03:50 GMT

Member since:

2018

Professional role/position:

Learning Facilitator

ATD-LA volunteer role/position:

New member orientation facilitator

Why do you volunteer for ATD-LA?

I volunteer at ATD-LA because I want to be part of a community that inspires passion and strives to empower all people to be great in their craft. Volunteering also gives me the chance to be involved in activities that interest me beyond what I do at my job.

Favorite ATD-LA memory:

It’s hard to pick just one! I love all the interesting discussions and group activities that happen at ATD-LA events.

ATD-LA Gives Back to Volunteers

Grant Skakun — Mon, 29 Jul 2019 22:49:30 GMT

Anthony Markovich, a leader of the South Bay GIG, won a free registration to an ATD Education certificate program, compliments of ATD-Los Angeles! In a gesture of appreciation for the chapter's volunteers, Ben Sieke, ATD-LA President, conducted a random drawing for the free registration that included all of ATD-LA's board members, leaders, and managers.

Vince will be attending the ATD Certificate in Management Development course.

Please join the chapter in congratulating Anthony! And if you are interested in learning more about the benefits of volunteering with ATD-LA, be sure to check out the volunteer page.

Volunteer Spotlight: Esther Ramirios

Grant Skakun — Fri, 05 Jul 2019 22:00:09 GMT

Member since:

2002

Professional role/position:

Learning Director, Adult Learning & Workforce Education Group, LLC (alaweg.com)

ATD-LA volunteer role/position:

Special Interest Group Leader - Nonprofit Trainers & Instructional Designers

Why do you volunteer for ATD-LA?

It's such a great resource. How could I not share it with others?! I really enjoy connecting people to resources and providing opportunities to learn with and from other L&D professionals.

Favorite ATD-LA memory:

A while ago, I participated in the mentoring program and had a great mentor Jane Holcomb who was generous with her advice, intentional about the development opportunities she recommended, and just an overall smart entrepreneur. I didn't know it then, but she set me up nicely with the toolbox I needed to make the transition to external consulting one year later. I truly enjoyed all of our conversations, learnings, and ah-has!

ATD Recognizes the Los Angeles Chapter in its “Sharing Our Success” Program

Grant Skakun — Tue, 02 Jul 2019 19:21:43 GMT

On June 28, 2019, the Los Angeles Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (ATD-LA) was recognized for its submission to the ATD “Sharing Our Success” (SOS) program. The national SOS program identifies best practices among local ATD chapters and uses them as models for other chapters.

The SOS submission titled “Navigating SHRM Credit Process and Job Aid” was prepared by Kavita Gupta, Director of Chapter Meetings, and Grant Skakun, Office Administrator.

The SOS described ATD-LA’s process of becoming a SHRM recertification provider, adding events to SHRM’s database, advertising participation in the program, and distributing activity IDs to event participants.

ATD will recognize this achievement by featuring a description of the project on the Chapter Leader Community’s SOS webpage, including an article in the Leader Connection Newsletter, and recognizing the chapter at the 2019 ATD Chapter Leaders Conference.

This latest recognition reflects the second SOS recognition for ATD-LA over the past three years and the sixth SOS recognition overall for the chapter. ATD-LA was first recognized by the SOS program in 2003.

To learn more about other awards and recognition ATD-LA has received, click here. For more information about opportunities to volunteer with the chapter, click here.

Volunteer Spotlight: Kavita Gupta

Grant Skakun — Wed, 12 Jun 2019 22:17:24 GMT

Member Since

ATD (formerly ASTD) member for 8 years, served on two other ATD boards. ATD- LA member since June 2018.

Professional Role/Position

USC Rossier Learning Design Technology Advisory Board Chair.

ATD-LA Role

President-Elect, Director Chapter Meetings.

Why Do You Volunteer for ATD-LA

As a way of giving back to ATD and the L&D community and to learn and grow professionally. Volunteer work has intrinsic rewards and it is always very gratifying to work with students and fellow colleagues that share common interests, meet new people and help an organization achieve its goals.

Favorite ATD-LA Memory

Meeting past presidents and chapter leaders from decades past at the February chapter meeting on leadership presented by Professor Pete Cardon of USC, when chapter leadership was recognized. The stories and advice they shared reinforced why ATD plays such a valuable role in a learning & development professional's life and how many careers are begun, built and renewed from ATD relationships. The LA chapter is 75 years old and its position as a leading chapter was only earned by the hard work of its leaders and contributing members.

Volunteer Spotlight: Angela Anable

Grant Skakun — Fri, 17 May 2019 18:29:43 GMT

Member since:

I have been a member of ATD since 2008 and a member of the local chapter for 5+ years, although not continuously.

Professional role/position:

Professionally, I work for Landmark Theatres as their Director of Training. This is a one person department which I have held for the last decade, although I have worked for Landmark for 30 years total.

ATD-LA volunteer role/position:

I volunteer as the chair for the Westside GIG, and I have volunteered in this capacity since the beginning of 2018, taking it over from Rachel Karu who did it for more than a decade.

Why do you volunteer for ATD-LA?

I volunteer because I need the community. Being a one person department and not having a budget for developing myself, I rely on the networking and friendships I have made along the way through this organization to keep me grounded and inspired.

Favorite ATD-LA memory:

It would be hard to pick one memory. I enjoy the chapter meetings and being inspired by listening to the stories of others the most.

Volunteer Spotlight: Princess Walsh

Grant Skakun — Thu, 11 Apr 2019 15:17:21 GMT

Member since: October 2018

ATD-LA volunteer role/position: Interim Secretary

Why do you volunteer for ATD-LA?: I think that it's a great organization with people who truly care about the profession and the impact that they are making in their careers. I noticed a strong familial energy at the ATD-LA events and wanted to be a part of that welcoming experience. Volunteering was just the icing on the cake.

Favorite ATD-LA memory: At the last chapter meeting, the former presidents and board members attended, and it was so great to hear about their experiences, their journeys, and where they are now in their lives and careers.

Volunteer Spotlight: Annie Liao

Grant Skakun — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 07:00:00 GMT

Member Since: June 2018

Professional Role/Position: I'm an Instructional Designer at Dine Brands Global where I develop training for IHOP restaurants.

ATD-LA Volunteer Role/Position: I've been helping out on the ATD-LA chapter meeting planning team.

Why Do You Volunteer for ATD-LA? When I moved to Los Angeles, not only was I looking for a new job, I was in search of a professional community to connect with and invest in. From the first chapter meeting I attended, I was struck by the welcome I received and the timely and relevant content shared from the front. I knew I'd be back! I've received so much from this group in the short time I've been involved and wanted to contribute in some way. Luckily for me there were lots of ways to get involved and I found there was a place for me on the chapter planning team. I've enjoyed working with Kavita to help plan ahead for future chapter meetings and am excited for what's on the calendar!

Favorite ATD-LA Memory: The Brain Exchange chapter meeting in January was one of my favorites so far. I love the spirit of generosity in this group and I enjoyed hearing everyone's gems of wisdom at the event. One thing that stuck with me from that evening was when Fred Stevens shared about giving empathetic thought to the commute someone faced in order to get to a training event. Simply acknowledging someone's commute can go a long way to set them at ease and create a space that helps them learn. I love that! And living in Los Angeles, I think we can all relate to the struggle. I've thought of that so many times since he said it. And that was just one of about fifty things I came away with that night. Can't wait for the next one of those!

New ATD-LA SIG Sells Out Inaugural Meeting

Grant Skakun — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 16:27:11 GMT

On March 13, 2019, ATD Los Angeles’ newest Community of Practice launched to a standing-room-only crowd in Chatsworth. The Nonprofit Trainers and Instructional Designers SIG caters to learning professionals working in Los Angeles’ many nonprofit organizations, and was founded by a group of nonprofit talent development professionals led by Esther Ramirios, M.Ed., M.A.

The first meeting of the Nonprofit SIG featured a presentation titled “Tips and Tricks for Quick and Dirty Training” led by Melody Lam, Learning Consultant at Farmers Insurance. Attendees were enthralled, with one participant sharing:

"My staff loved it all! It was excellent and just enough info. [My colleague] is excited to use what was shared on her upcoming presentation … Can't wait for the next meeting!"

“Melody had a great presentation that was engaging, relevant, and informative,” shared Nonprofit SIG founder Esther Ramirios. “All and all, [the event was] a great meet and greet with valuable information...in traditional ATD style!”

ATD Los Angeles’ Communities of Practice are subgroups established to help the chapter better serve our diverse member community, which spans three counties and members working in a multitude of roles and professional specializations. The Communities of Practice (COPs) may be regional – our Geographic Interest Groups (GIG) – or topical – our Special Interest Groups (SIG) – and offer our members another way to network with peers, connect with the Chapter, and gain valuable knowledge and skills.

The Nonprofit Trainers and Instructional Designers SIG will meet 2nd Tuesday of every other month from 8am-9:30am in Chatsworth. For more information on this group and ATD-LA’s other communities of practice, click here. A complete calendar of upcoming community of practice events can be found here.

ATD Recognizes the Los Angeles Chapter in its “Sharing Our Success” Program

Grant Skakun — Tue, 19 Mar 2019 16:13:36 GMT

On Friday, March 15, The Los Angeles Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (ATD) was recognized for its submission to the ATD “Sharing Our Success” (SOS) program. The national SOS program identifies best practices among local ATD chapters and uses them as models for other chapters.

The SOS submission was prepared by Kavita Gupta, Director of Chapter Meetings, and documented the program for the ATD-LA’s January Chapter meeting. The program, titled “Brain Exchange and New Year Networking Mixer,” was a hit among attendees and Kavita’s SOS submission detailed the event and how other ATD chapters can program a similar event for their membership.

Elizabeth Beckham, Chair of ATD’s Chapter Recognition Committee said, "This recognition honors the Los Angeles Chapter’s best practice that demonstrates its commitment to managing a successful organization as well as advancing the talent development profession at the local level. We are honored to recognize the chapter with ATD's SOS recognition."

Kavita and ATD-LA will be honored at the 2019 ATD Chapter Leaders Conference, and the SOS submission will also be featured in an upcoming edition of ATD’s Leader Connection Newsletter.

This latest recognition reflects the first SOS recognition for ATD-LA in over two and a half years and the fifth SOS recognition overall for the chapter. ATD-LA was first recognized by the SOS program in 2003.

To learn more about other awards and recognition ATD-LA has received, click here. For more information about opportunities to volunteer with the chapter, click here.

ATD-LA Recertified and Recognized by ATD

Grant Skakun — Mon, 11 Mar 2019 16:19:33 GMT

In March 2019, the Association for Talent Development, parent organization of ATD-LA, informed the chapter that it had reached two important milestones:

The chapter was recertified for 2019 as meeting all 18 elements of CARE, ATD’s set of affiliation requirements for local chapters. ATD-LA has proudly maintained this annual certification for many years and has always remained compliant with ATD’s affiliation requirements and programs.

In addition, the chapter was recognized as a 2019 Membership Star for maintaining a 45-50% Power Membership percentage, a metric which reflects how many ATD-LA members also maintain an active ATD membership.

The ATD-LA board was informed of this recertification and recognition by a letter from the President of ATD, Tony Bingham, in which he congratulated and thanked the chapter leadership team. “ATD recognizes that the value you provide to your members through well-run chapter programs, services, and exceptional operations,” wrote Bingham, “is the result of the individual time, resources, innovation, thought, and dedication you and your team contribute.”

ATD-LA is proud to affiliate with the international ATD organization, and this latest recognition reflects the chapter’s commitment to representing the greater Los Angeles area’s talent development professionals locally, nationally, and globally.

For more information on Power Membership, click here. For information on opportunities to support the chapter as a volunteer, visit atdla.org/Volunteer.

ATD-LA Celebrates its Legacy of Leadership

Grant Skakun — Mon, 04 Mar 2019 16:44:53 GMT

From left to right: Kavita Gupta (current President-Elect and Director of Chapter Meetings), Troy Achong (Past President 2006), Grant Skakun (current Office Administrator), Michael Baroff (Past President 1992), Jo Lynn Feinstein (Past President 1996, Los Padres Chapter), Michael Thompson (former Community of Practice leader), Susan Friedman, Ed.D. (former board member), Ben Sieke (current President), Annette Shaked (Past President 2000), Sean Bloch (Past President 2012), Peter Bechtel, Ph.D. (Past President 2003), Janie Honeycutt (former board member), Anthony Lewis (Past President 2016), Laurie Siedelman (former board member), G. Fred Stevens (former board member), Danielle Jenkins, Ed.D (current Co-Director of Learning), Carol Ring (current Co-Director of Learning) Not pictured but also in attendance: Margeaux Sullivan (current Director of Marketing), Andrea Proctor (current Manager of Social Media), Denise Ross (current Association Manager), Angela Anable (current Westside GIG leader)

At its monthly chapter meeting on February 21, 2019, ATD-LA recognized and heard from more than 25 years of past chapter leaders, including past presidents, board members, and communities of practice leaders. These leaders were asked to share a few words about their time leading the chapter and the impact that ATD-LA has had on their personal and professional lives.

“I was moved to hear stories from so many longtime members and former leaders about how ATD-LA has been the genesis of their careers and many lasting relationships,” said Ben Sieke, President of ATD-LA. “Tonight’s event is a testament to our chapter’s 73-year history of peer leadership and service to our members and community and a great reminder of why we join and volunteer with ATD-LA.”

The chapter meeting, produced by President-Elect and Director of Chapter Meetings Kavita Gupta, was titled “The Habits of Great Leaders” and featured a keynote presentation by Dr. Peter Cardon of the USC Marshall School of Business. The event sold out and was attended by more than 50 members and guests.

For more information on ATD-LA Chapter Meetings, including upcoming events, click here. For more information on ATD-LA's leadership team, click here.

ATD-LA Gives Back to Volunteers

Grant Skakun — Wed, 12 Dec 2018 23:20:21 GMT

Vince Budrovich, a leader of the South Bay GIG, won a free registration to an ATD Education certificate program, compliments of ATD-Los Angeles! In a gesture of appreciation for the chapter's volunteers, Ben Sieke, ATD-LA President, conducted a random drawing for the free registration that included all of ATD-LA's board members, leaders, and managers.

Vince will be attending the live online Articulate Storyline Certificate course from January 10 to February 7, 2019.

Please join the chapter in congratulating Vince! And if you are interested in learning more about the benefits of volunteering with ATD-LA, be sure to check out the volunteer page.

Kavita Gupta Appointed Director of Chapter Meetings

Grant Skakun — Fri, 02 Nov 2018 21:31:57 GMT

Kavita was appointed director of chapter meetings in October by the president with the approval of a majority of the members of the board of directors.

Kavita has over 20 years of experience in education and training. She was a former corporate trainer, consultant and adjunct and has expertise in needs assessment and the design, delivery and management of training programs for the private and public sector. Kavita has been involved with ATD for over 8 years, previously served on two ATD boards and is the original author of A Practical Guide to Needs Assessment (Wiley, 2014 co-published by ASTD). She has worked with over 2,000 professionals and volunteers, served on eight boards and chaired over twenty-five committees. She is very actively involved at USC and currently chairs the Rossier School of Education Learning Design and Technology Advisory Board. Kavita holds a Masters in Instructional Systems Technology from Indiana University (Magna Cum Laude), and Masters in Sociology from Rajasthan University and Bachelors in Economics from Delhi University in India.

Click here to learn more about the ATD-LA leadership team.

ATD-LA Attends ATD’s Chapter Leaders Conference in D.C.

Grant Skakun — Sun, 14 Oct 2018 07:00:00 GMT

Grant Skakun, office administrator of ATD Los Angeles Chapter, attended ATD’s Chapter Leaders Conference (ALC) in Washington D.C. on Oct. 11–13.

ALC is an annual conference for leaders of ATD chapters across the U.S. to network, share best practices, and learn about resources to support their chapters.

Grant met with fellow chapter board members, volunteers, and talent development professionals to discuss strategies, tactics, and solutions for running an ATD chapter. He attended sessions on leveraging chapter partnerships, marketing and communication, building a culture of recruiting, and developing a sustainable chapter.

Tony Bingham, president of ATD, announced that ATD-LA was one of the top 10 chapters in the country to participate in the Chapter Incentive Program, a revenue sharing program with ATD.

Grant intends to utilize the strategies he learned and the connections he made at ALC to better serve members and support ATD-LA volunteers.

We invite you to become an ATD-LA member or volunteer to build your professional network and achieve your career goals.

In Memoriam: Jim Warren

Grant Skakun — Fri, 23 Feb 2018 22:38:40 GMT

We mourn the passing of ATD Los Angeles 1982 Chapter President Jim Warren at the age of 89. Jim was an esteemed colleague and a pioneer in the field of Organization Development with over 50 years experience as a management consultant and executive coach. With an academic background in Physics from MIT and a Harvard MBA, Jim developed rigorous applied methodologies in the areas of leadership, teamwork, collaboration, conflict resolution, work processes, change management, strategic decisions and technology implementation. He shared his knowledge through active involvement in numerous professional associations, as an instructor at UCLA Extension for 35 years, and through his Center for Collaborative Management.

Atdla.org Is Now Mobile Friendly

Grant Skakun — Fri, 23 Feb 2018 22:30:06 GMT

Join, register for events, update your profile, learn about ATD-LA, access resources, and contact us with ease from any device!

ATD Recognizes ATD-LA as a "Champion of Learning" during Employee Learning Week

Grant Skakun — Tue, 23 Jan 2018 00:29:46 GMT

Employee Learning Week is an awareness campaign highlighting the important connection between learning and achieving organizational results. It's an opportunity to demonstrate your organization's commitment to workforce development.

Employee Learning Week typically takes place the first week of December. But, employee learning is a year round event. Employee Learning Week events can happen anywhere! Hold events in your office or plan a special off-site program.

Training is more important now than ever before. The growing skills gap and increased need to compete in today's economy require organizations to develop a knowledgeable and highly skilled workforce.

Click here for additional details about Employee Learning Week.

ATD-LA Attends ALC 2017

Grant Skakun — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 21:32:38 GMT

ATD-LA Attends ALC 2017

Ben Sieke and Grant Skakun of ATD-LA attended ATD's ALC 2017 Chapter Leaders Conference in Washington D.C. from October 12-14.

This conference was exclusively for chapter leaders. It featured keynote speakers who focused on aspects of leadership and peer-led sessions that focused on sharing best practices for chapter administration, communication, and member engagement. The conference was attended by more than 300 current and incoming chapter board members from across the country.

ALC was all about connecting with peers and gathering tools and resources to effectively lead an ATD chapter.

Pictured: Grant Skakun (ATD Los Angeles), Daniel Hage (ATD Golden Gate), Ben Sieke (ATD Los Angeles), Wendy Corbett (National Advisors for Chapters), Stephen Smith (National Advisors for Chapters), Jeffery Hansler (ATD Orange County), Don McGray (ATD Orange County)

Power Membership Now Available at td.org

Grant Skakun — Wed, 23 Aug 2017 21:39:10 GMT

ATD-LA is participating in a program with ATD to make ATD-LA membership available through the online ATD Store. This program will create a one-stop-shop for Power Membership (ATD-LA and ATD membership at the same time). This will also allow customers to align ATD-LA and ATD membership end dates.

If you do not have an existing single sign-on (SSO) account with ATD, ATD will create a username for you and email it to you. You may use this username to log in to td.org where you can purchase products, register for webinars, and more.

If you receive an SSO from ATD, please note that you will only use that SSO to log in to td.org. Your current username and password for atdla.org will not change.

That's it! There is no action required on your part. Thank you for helping make our participation in this pilot successful. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Denise at office@atdla.org or 562/908-3020.

A Message from the Chapter President

Grant Skakun — Tue, 28 Mar 2017 21:09:34 GMT

A Message from the Chapter President

2017 - 1st Quarter

As the first quarter of our 71^st year draws to a close, I am excited to share this update with our members and our community! Our incredible Board of Directors, our valuable volunteers, and our diligent and hardworking office team have been working together to get 2017 off to a strong start.

If you have been reading our newsletters and regularly visiting atdla.org, you are already aware of what we have been working on. I am going to take this opportunity to call out a few items in particular that I believe are demonstrative of the successes that we have already had so far this year, and that we will continue to see throughout 2017.

First, ATD-LA’s program offerings continue to grow in quality and scope. Our commitments to delivering value to our members and to advancing the talent development community in greater Los Angeles mean that we continue to strive to offer you the very best programs possible. Some programming highlights from this year include:

The successful relaunch of our Train the Trainer program, which was a yearlong collaboration between incoming and outgoing board members and volunteers, took place this quarter. We expect this program to be a regular offering going forward.
A revitalization and expansion of our webinar program. These virtual sessions allow attendees from Southern California and beyond to attend high-quality programs without having to brave LA traffic! Browse our Webinars page to see a list of offerings scheduled through the rest of the year – all of which are free to ATD-LA members.
For the third consecutive year, ATD-LA will be hosting a local, two-day DiSC certification program. Stay tuned for more information, but I can offer two details today: it will take place in August, and our members will (as usual) receive a significant registration discount.
The inaugural Talent Summit LA on April 19, which we are offering in partnership with other local professional development groups as a way to bring our community even closer together. More details about this event – which may have as many as 200 attendees – can be found by clicking here. Register now to secure your seat at the networking event of the year!
Our Mentoring Program is set to kick off shortly! This is a longtime chapter offering that has been key in the careers and development of many of our members. For the current program, we had solicited applications last year and earlier in Q1 2017 and our Director of Membership is in the process of finalizing our mentor-mentee matches.
Always a key to serving our entire community, our Communities of Practice (SIGs and GIGs) remain vibrant and are positioned to grow. We believe this year is one of great opportunity for these groups, which cater to specific geographic areas and areas of practice within talent development. Click here for more information on when and where these communities meet.

Second - but no less important – the chapter remains strong and stable, and we are building infrastructure to support the chapter and our members into the future. Our ability to serve you on a long-term basis is reliant on sustainable policies, processes, and technology that align with a chapter strategic plan. The 2^nd quarter update will include more details on this work, but I will share that this includes revisiting how we onboard and develop volunteers, an expanded use of Google applications, a redesign of key parts of our website, and a complete transformation of our social media presence led by our Director of Technology. Very exciting!

Finally, as this quarter’s end represents the completion of the first quarter of my presidency, I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the considerable legacy of my predecessor, Past President Anthony Lewis. As a volunteer organization (volunteerism details here), ATD-LA relies on a group of selfless, hardworking members that want to give back to the organization and to our professional community. Please join me in thanking Anthony, as well as our other volunteers, past and present, for their contribution to the state of the chapter and our regional talent development community.

As your Chapter President, I welcome your thoughts, comments, questions, and suggestions. You may reach me at president@atdla.org – or, better yet, come find me at an upcoming event. Thank you for allowing me to serve you!

Yours,

Ben Sieke
2017 Chapter President

ATD recognizes Los Angeles Chapter for Sharing Our Success (SOS) Program

Grant Skakun — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 21:36:17 GMT

December 22, 2016 - The Los Angeles Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (ATD), formerly ASTD, was recognized for its submission to the ATD “Sharing Our Success” (SOS) program. The national SOS program identifies best practices among local ATD chapters and uses them as models for other chapters.

The chapter created a “Volunteer Only” tab in Wild Apricot with subsections titled by each topic. The chapter implemented a system to designate who receives access to each section, and uploaded documents and historical information to each tab. This system compiles all resources and tools in one location and reduces email congestion and duplication of documents. At each meeting, the chapter shows documents from the volunteer tab instead of recreating PowerPoints.

See a description of Los Angeles Chapter’s project on the Chapter Leader Community SOS webpage: Click Here
See ATD-Los Angeles recognized at the ATD Chapter Leaders Conference (ALC) in Washington, DC: Event Details

New Job? New Address? It’s Time to Update Your Profile

Anthony Lewis — Fri, 16 Dec 2016 18:39:30 GMT

Here’s how:

1. Go to www.atdla.org

2. Log in with your username and password

3. Select your name located at the upper right of screen

4. Select one area at a time: Profile, Privacy, Email Subscriptions, Photo

5. Click on Edit Profile

6. Edit or modify the contents by clicking fields

7. Select the Save button the bottom

Make sure you have an active email address entered, this is one of the ways we contact our membership and ensure annual voting news is sent to you.

Stuck? Please contact the office if you need further assistance. You can fill in this form: http://www.atdla.org/page-1014526

Thank you.

ATD-LA Office and Board of Directors

ATD recognizes Los Angeles Chapter with ATD's Chapter of the Month Award for December 2016

Grant Skakun — Fri, 09 Dec 2016 19:25:02 GMT

The Chapter of the Month is national recognition for ATD local chapters that have demonstrated strength, growth, and innovation in managing their chapter.

Jeffrey Gehris, chair of ATD’s Chapter Recognition Committee, which awards the Chapter of the Month honor, said, ”This prestigious award recognizes the Los Angeles Chapter for demonstrating innovative and unique approaches in providing great value to their members and professionals in the community, including professional development, networking, and leading information about trends in the talent development industry. The Los Angeles Chapter is a leading example for serving members and other ATD chapter leaders with opportunities to learn and grow from each other. We are pleased to recognize the chapter with ATD’s Chapter of the Month award.”

Congratulatory letter from Tony Bingham.pdf

ATD recognizes Los Angeles Chapter for Sharing Our Success (SOS) Program

Grant Skakun — Mon, 19 Sep 2016 15:00:00 GMT

September 19, 2016 – The Los Angeles Chapter of the Association for Talent Development (ATD), formerly ASTD, was recognized for its submission to the ATD “Sharing Our Success” (SOS) program. The national SOS program identifies best practices among local ATD chapters and uses them as models for other chapters.

The chapter developed a process to fill the role of manager for different committees working under a chapter officer with executive voting powers. All chapter volunteers were interviewed by a minimum of two chapter officers, including the president. Interviews were conducted by phone to assess skills and motivational fit. Selected candidates were then invited to the in-person board meeting to meet the rest of the board. For succession planning purposes, a manager can be promoted to director and a director to a vice president as the volunteer serves more terms on the board. This incentive educates and trains newer volunteers in a progressive manner, and recognizes those that continue their service on the board. The program has resulted in a targeted selection of volunteers that are ready to take on the responsibilities of their roles and better prepared to be successors.

Jeffrey Gehris, Chair of ATD’s Chapter Recognition Committee said, "This recognition honors the Los Angeles Chapter’s best practice that demonstrates its commitment to managing a successful organization as well as advancing the talent development profession at the local level. We are excited to honor the chapter with ATD's SOS recognition."

See a description of Los Angeles Chapter’s project on the Chapter Leader Community SOS webpage: Click Here
Read about this project in the August '16 edition of Leader Connection Newsletter: Click Here
See ATD-Los Angeles recognized at the ATD Chapter Leaders Conference (ALC) in Washington, DC: Event Details

Anniversary Letter, Tony Bingham

Anthony Lewis — Wed, 27 Apr 2016 13:10:15 GMT

Our chapter is celebrating our 70th Anniversary and would like to thank all of our current and past members for another successful year together.

We've come a long way since our founding and appreciate all of the hard work of the Board of Directors over the years, as well as our volunteers.

To commemorate this milestone, Tony Bingham has written us a letter. See attached. Los Angeles 70th Anniversary Letter.pdf

South Bay Training Professionals Breakfast Meetings Recognizes 12 Years

Anthony Lewis — Tue, 29 Mar 2016 17:52:18 GMT

ATD Los Angeles South Bay Training Professionals Breakfast Meetings Special Interest Group (SIG) was established March 2004. We are recognizing its 12th successful year!

This is one of seven SIGs that are hosted by ATD-LA. All talent development professionals, members and non-members are invited to attend: org. development, leadership instructors, coaches, students and those that support the employee education functions.

Key leaders include: Anthony Markovich, Sue Gabriele, Vince Budrovich, Jeff Fajans, Hugh Leonard, Joan Arias, Mark Pavlakovich and others. These dedicated leaders volunteer their time to make monthly meetings a reality.

Face-to-face meetings are held on the first Friday of every month (except Jan & July) from 7:30am – 9:00am.

Currently, the majority of the meetings are held at the wonderful Toyota Museum in Torrance. We are very grateful for the on-going hospitality of Susan Sanborn, Curator, and her team at the museum has provided.

Participation is informal, which is very effective for morning coffee and breakfast conversations. Recent meetings have utilized the innovative GEMS RoundTable format that was created by Sue Gabriele.

Active ATD-LA members can attend this SIG meetings for free. Plus, this SIG has a special longstanding partnership ISPI-LA (International Society for Performance Improvement, Los Angeles) and offers free registration to its active members too. This is an average savings $10 each month.

If you are interested in attending this SIG, please register today and join us: http://www.atdla.org/page-1007497

If you are interested in speaking or presenting at this SIG, please let us know by filling in this form: http://www.atdla.org/Speaker-Interest-Form

Thank all of you who have supported ATD-LA SIGs.

Links

ATD-LA Membership, join or renew: http://www.atdla.org/page-962961

ATD-LA SIG event calendar: http://www.atdla.org/page-1007497

ATD-LA Achieves Chapter Affiliation Requirements (CARE)

Anthony Lewis — Tue, 08 Mar 2016 23:28:09 GMT

The Association for Talent Development, Los Angeles (ATD-LA), has achieved its chapter affiliation requirements, known as CARE. This means the chapter successfully met all 18 required CARE elements and is recognized for 100 percent achievement of CARE.

This achievement was accomplished through the hard work, time and efforts of the chapter leadership team, office administrator and dedicated volunteers. They work very hard to align the programs and services with membership needs.

The chapter received a special letter from Tony Bingham, ATD president and CEO, to acknowledge this noteworthy achievement.

Click here to read the letter

Five Reasons to Build Emotional and Social Intelligence: Plus How to Do It

Denise Ross — Wed, 24 Feb 2016 17:15:22 GMT

Five Reasons to Build Emotional and Social Intelligence: Plus How to Do It

By Jeffrey E. Auerbach, Ph.D., MCC

President, College of Executive Coaching

What do you believe are the top qualities of star performing managers and leaders? Holding people accountable? Being inspiring? Ability to work with different kinds of personalities? Hard working ethic?

Science shows us that what distinguishes top rated leaders from average leaders is their degree of emotional and social intelligence.

In this short article I will highlight the top five reasons your managers and leaders need to develop their emotional intelligence and explain the best way to help them to do this.

I typically define Emotional intelligence (EI) to the managers and leaders I am coaching as: EI is knowing yourself and managing yourself; and understanding others and managing your relationships with others.

Although every individual possesses different levels of EI, in order for individuals to be star leaders, they’ll need a superior level of emotional intelligence. EI is widely recognized as a highly important factor for success: influencing productivity, employee retention and development, as well as team collaboration. Here are five important reasons, building on the ideas of Sara Fletcher, why leaders should cultivate their emotional and social intelligence:

1. Self-Awareness

An individual who is high in emotional self-awareness knows what they are feeling and how their emotions affect their behavior. Leaders high in emotional self-awareness get information from their emotions, which helps them avoid projecting blame onto others. Such leaders are able to use emotional information to help them manage themselves well and the situations they encounter.

2. Self-Management

When an individual has high emotional self-awareness, the next step is to use that knowledge to conduct themselves masterfully in complex and emotionally charged situations. The leader high in self-management is unlikely to rush headlong into hasty decisions or let their anger lead to poor behavior. It is vital that individuals in positions of power do not lash out emotionally, as being perceived as out of control will cause them to lose respect.

3. Effective Communication

Individuals with strong emotional and social intelligence usually are skilled communicators. Their emotional self-awareness, empathy and their optimism help them communicate positively and comfortably with many kinds of personalities and they are able to clearly convey ideas and directions -- knowing what to say in order to inspire and motivate others. These emotional intelligence factors increase the chances that this is a leader that others will follow.

4. Social Awareness

Leaders with emotional intelligence are well tuned to not only their own feelings but also the emotions of others. They are able to sympathize with others by putting themselves in the employee’s shoes. They are capable of understanding other people’s perspectives and empathetically communicating their understanding; they are able to express that they care for their followers. If the manager or leader is not seen as empathizing with their employees, he or she will find it difficult to maintain respect or loyalty.

5. Conflict Resolution

In the workplace, there’s always the risk that emerging conflicts can threaten a positive organizational culture as well as harm productivity. However, leaders with high emotional and social intelligence are best equipped to help manage conflicts, be appropriately responsive and help craft effective solutions. Leaders high in EI use their emotional intelligence to develop an inclusive, engaged and effective workplace culture.

Four Steps to Develop Emotionally Intelligent Leaders

Step One: The first step to develop more emotionally intelligent leaders is to establish agreement between the coach and the employee that the leader is interested in becoming a peak performer. Then you show the leader that the research demonstrates that to be a peak performer means to have well developed emotional and social intelligence.

Step Two: Next, administer a valid emotional intelligence assessment to obtain a baseline and identify EI competencies to fine tune. Based on my research, presented by invitation to the American Psychological Association, the most valid and culturally fair of the emotional intelligence assessments is the Emotional Quotient 2.0 (EQI2.0).

Step Three: Once the EQI2.0 results are available, conduct a coaching session where the client selects EI competencies they want to fine tune, aligned with important values and organizational goals, and set up a coaching plan with action steps to move forward.

Step Four: Next help the leader develop an accountability process to make sure they practice the new, desired emotionally intelligent behaviors at every available opportunity.

How, When and Where:

EQI2.0 Certification Special for ATD-LA Members -- Register by March 3^rd to save $100 on early registration.

ATD-LA has scheduled a special, discounted EQI2.0 Certification on March 24^th and 25^th in Culver City.

Attending the certification training will:

Allow you to administer the EQI2.0 Self-Report and the EQ360 Multi-rater report, generating a valuable 21 page report complete with thorough development and coaching suggestions tailored to the client.

Prepare you to teach a one-day workshop on Emotional and Social Intelligence.

Provide you with four free scorings of an EQI2.0 Workplace report allowing you to immediately recoup the cost of the investment in certification,

Benefit you with your own one-on-one individual coaching session to review your EQI2.0 report with a master coach.

Click here for more information on ATD-LA’s discounted EQI 2.0 Certification training being held on March 24 and 25.

Chapter Monthly Themes 2016

Anthony Lewis — Thu, 04 Feb 2016 21:47:42 GMT

Month	*Theme*
January	*New Year and new ATD!*
February	*Career Development*
March	*Global Talent Management*
April	*Training Fundamentals*
May	*Innovation and Trends in TD*
June	*Learning Technologies*
July	*Designing Learning / Instructional Design*
August	*TD Essentials*
September	*Change Management*
October	*Coaching and Mentoring*
November	*Advanced Training Facilitation and Delivery*
December	*Employee Learning*

13 Common Mistakes of 360 Degree Feedback

Anthony Lewis — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 20:13:12 GMT

13 Common Mistakes Using 360-Degree Feedback Here’s how to avoid some common mis-steps when implementing multirater feedback. By Scott Wimer & Kenneth M. Nowack ________________________________________________________________

Imagine having returned from a conference where you heard reports on the power of 360-degree or multi-rater feedback. Excited by the Prospect of introducing it in your organization you start sharing your enthusiasm and find that others are interested and receptive. After much discussion, you receive the go-ahead from your manager. Now, your challenge is to figure out the best way to implement it. First, you decide to do some informal benchmarking. As you read about multi-rater feedback, talk with colleagues and attend workshops, it becomes apparent that it’s a complicated subject with many options for design and implementation. At times you even wonder whether 360-degree feedback is the potent tool for performance management and organizational change it’s hyped to be or just another management fad. Your initial research reveals varied results. In some organizations, people rave about multi-rater feedback, claiming it’s the cornerstone intervention for individual and organizational change; others say it has left people feeling betrayed, broken confidences, and heightened cynicism. There are commonalities in the successes stories and in the failures. Most organizations using the best practices anticipate potential mistakes and plan actively how to avoid them. You want to make sure to address the pitfalls before embarking on your own 360-degree process. The successful implementation depends on whether it truly addresses and is perceived to address, important performance issues in your organization. When done well, multi-rater feedback systems can lead to enormous positive change and enhance effectiveness at the individual, team, and organizational levels. Here are 13 common mistakes to avoid when implementing a multi-rater assessment:

Attached is an article written by Scott Wimer and Ken Nowack. Provided with permission of Scott Wimer. 13_Mistakes_of_360_Feedback (1).pdf

http://www.360degreefeedback.net/media/13CommonMistakes.pdf

Chapter Leadership 2016

Anthony Lewis — Sun, 24 Jan 2016 18:20:03 GMT

Chapter Leadership 2016

TOGETHER. SHAPING THE FUTURE.

The Association for Talent Development, Los Angeles Chapter, is excited to welcome its new board of directors. As a team of volunteers that give their time and expertise, they will partner with members and though-leaders to provide solutions and guidance. Please reach out to congratulate the new board members and introduce yourself to them at the next chapter event. Learn More

Chapter President

Anthony Lewis

Anthony Lewis has volunteered at ATD-LA for more than ten years. Many will recall his work with the mentoring program. As the Sr. Mgr. of Organizational Effectiveness & Talent Management at Yamaha Corporation of America, he leads the corporate functions with comprehensive change management, succession planning, leadership development and workforce planning strategies.

Treasurer

Katrina Baker

Katrina Baker, author of LMS Success and The LMS Selection Checklist, is a learning technology mentor for chapter members. In the past, she led the Director of Technology position. Going forward she will be leading the financial responsibilities for the chapter. This includes budget, accounting, membership and records management.

Director of Membership

Steve Antonie

Steve Antonie volunteered as the ATD-LA Manager of the Mentoring Program and Academic Outreach. He will continue managing the mentoring program in addition, as Director of Membership. As the Talent Management Analyst at Cetera Financial Group, he manages recruiting, learning, professional development and performance management programs to optimize employee and organizational effectiveness.

Director of Chapter Meetings

Ben Sieke

Ben Sieke volunteered as the ATD-LA Manager of Sponsorship before accepting this role at Director of Chapter Meetings. He is a highly-motivated professional and an experienced facilitator with skills that adapt to diverse audiences. He leads the management and coordination of chapter meetings and social mixers.

Director of Events/Workshops

Taleen Mena

Taleen volunteered as the ATD-LA Manager of Events before accepting this role as the Director of Events. She is a results-driven professional with a solid career track in sales organizations, healthcare and leading talent development initiatives. In this role, she will lead the management and coordination of the learning events, workshops and conferences.

Director of Special Interest Groups

Janie Honeycutt

Janie has volunteered as the ATD-LA Director of Special Interest Groups over the past years. She will continue this role going forward. Janie has a wealth of knowledge as she plays a vital role in the bottomline success for the organizations that she serves. Her expertise includes change management, performance coaching and workshop facilitation.

Secretary

Vacant, join the team

The ATD-LA Chapter Secretary provides administrative and communication support to the chapter members and board of directors by recording meeting minutes, writing chapter correspondence, and ensuring communication of chapter proceedings and records. Click here to apply

Research Study Request Invitation

Anthony Lewis — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 16:50:50 GMT

My name is Abdulaziz (Aziz) Alshgeri and I am PhD candidate at Wayne State University. I am currently conducting a research study to explore how needs assessment is applied as a precursor to change initiative and to what extent leaders utilize it in change management processes.

I am currently seeking professionals to participate in this study. If you are:

In a leadership position (CEO, CFO, VP levels, etc.)
Business owner
Anyone who is involved in recommending and/or implementing organizational change strategies (manager, consultant, change agent, etc.

Please share your experiences and practices by clicking or copying and pasting this link in your browser bar to take the survey:

https://waynestate.az1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_8w7W3RpDGWHkDgp

The survey should take no longer than 15 minutes. Please kindly complete the survey by February 29, 2016.

Once you complete the survey, you will have an option to enter a random drawing to win one of four prize, which include a ($200, $150, $100, or $50) VISA gift cards. Your information will be confidential and will not be used to track your specific responses. Please share this research invitation to whom you think may be appropriate for this study.

The faculty advisor for this project is Dr. Ingrid Guerra Lopez and can be reached via email: ingrid.guerra-lopez@wayne.edu. If you have any questions regarding this study, please contact me at azizsh@wayne.edu or aalshgeriphd@gmail.com.

Thank you for your time and consideration,

Aziz Alshgeri

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Aziz Alshgeri

PhD Candidate (Performance Improvement) - Wayne State University
Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Wayne State University
Vice President of Finance - International Society for Performance Improvement, Michigan - ISPI-MI
https://www.linkedin.com/in/azizalshgeri
Email: aziz.alshgeri@gmail.com
Cell: (419) 320-5658

Toxic Bosses, Analysis written by Ken Nowack

Anthony Lewis — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 05:04:37 GMT

Bad leaders don’t just squander productivity and engagement. Employee health is also on the line. ANALYSIS BY KENNETH M. NOWACK

Toxic_Leaders_Talent_Management_Magazine_Nowack_January_2016.pdf

Awards and Recognition 2015

Anthony Lewis — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 00:10:42 GMT

The ATD-LA Board of Directors would like to proudly announce its annual awards, and encourage the membership to congratulate the recipients.

The President’s Award has been given to Soraya Deen for her efforts in leading the orchestration of chapter meetings, updating the delivery format, delivering interesting icebreakers and partnering with a wide range of speakers and new venues.

The prestigious Frank Rabwin Memorial Leadership Award has been given to Monish Subherwal for his efforts in launching and leading the first CPLP Study Group for the entire chapter.

The Terrence Wing Torch Award has been given to Jo Lynn Feinstein for her efforts in delivering several of the CPLP Study Group virtual classes.

The Terrence Wing Torch Award has been given to Sue Sorensen for her efforts in delivering several of the CPLP Study Group virtual classes.

As a former ATD-LA member, we would like to recognize Shari Hanlon/Ward for her efforts in delivering several of the CPLP Study Group virtual classes.

The Special Division Leader of the Year award has been given to Vince Budrovich. He has been a SIG leader for more than a decade which has brought new topics and supported our affiliate partnerships.

The Volunteer of the Year award has been given to Steve Antonie for his efforts in leading the mentoring program. His leadership helped increase participation.

Volunteering for a nonprofit professional organization has its benefits, and working with a talented team is a huge reward. For a full description of the award qualifications, please click here: http://atdla.org/page-1819288

We will mail the award certificates in December 2015. We ask that the recipients kindly send us a selfie when it arrives, so that we can display the picture at the website. Send to: office@atdla.org

Thank you,

Anthony Lewis

ATD LA President 2016

Association for Talent Development - Los Angeles Chapter

President's Message November 2015

Anthony Lewis — Mon, 09 Nov 2015 01:41:09 GMT

The ATD LA team would like to thank our volunteers for launching the CPLP Study Group. This was the first CPLP offer at ATD LA, and we’re very proud of the entire team.

Their dedication and expertise ensured that the participants learned about the ATD competencies that prepared them to take the CPLP exam. We wish them lots of success as they move forward in the CPLP certification process. If you would like to know about CPLP click here

Study Group Leaders

Monish Sucherwal, Shari Hanson, Jo Lynn Feinstein and Sue Sorensen

Participants/Attendees

Larry Colker, Carlo Carmona, Richard Maldonado, Jenny Chambers and Todd Witham

Leadership Day with Author Leena Rinne was Fantastic!

Anthony Lewis — Sun, 08 Nov 2015 22:25:01 GMT

Leadership Day with Co-Author, Leena Rinne was Fantastic!

On November 7, 2015, ATD-LA’s Leadership Involvement Day received excellent feedback from the participants. Members and new comers met the ATD LA Board 32016 as they shared news and information about the chapter.

At the event, FranklinCovey’s Leena Rinne, co-author of one of the bestselling books, The Five Choices: The Path to Extraordinary Productivity, explained how talent development professionals can apply these fascinating techniques. Several books were signed and participants spent time to meet the author. Stellar presentation!

FrankinCovey sponsored Leena's trip exclusively for ATD LA Leadership Day. The Board thanks them for their generosity and expertise. Truly a exceptional partnership.

Please contact Laura at FranklinCovey if you're interested in learning more about this workshop, or want to bring it to your business - you will be impressed.

Ballot Results for BOD 2016

Anthony Lewis — Sat, 24 Oct 2015 23:58:12 GMT

Hello Board, Volunteers and Members,

This message serves as your official notice.

Please join me in congratulating our newest Board Members. According to the bylaws, terms begin January 2016, however many of our candidates have already been leading assignments and projects within their discipline.

The formal ballot process has closed on Tuesday, October 20, 2015. There were a total of 30 votes received in favor of these results:

Director of Chapter Meetings, Ben Sieke
Director of Membership, Steve Antonie
Director of Learning Workshops/Events, Taleen Mena

I’m so excited to be working with a terrific team as we have great things in store for 2016. We will introduce our team to members at Leadership Involvement Day, November 7, 2015. Please register if you haven’t done so yet: http://www.atdla.org/event-1903043

Please contact the office if you have any questions. Have a nice weekend.

Board Quorum for Voting Chapter Treasurer

Anthony Lewis — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 16:40:53 GMT

On 10/21/2015, a quorum was held to nominate Katrina Baker for the vacant Treasurer position. For the record, all Board votes have been clearly tabulated and the quorum was closed on 10/22/2015. Thank you all for the quick-turnaround.

1. Katrin = Yes

2. Janie = Yes

3. Anthony = Yes

4. Soraya = Yes

5. Katrina = Nominee

Congratulations, Katrina is the Chapter Treasurer, effective 10/22/2015. The Director of Technology position, that Katrina held in the past will not be backfilled until further notice or if anyone has an interest in that role they should contact me.

No action it required on your part. A copy of this decision and voting will be posted at the chapter notes section. This email serves as your official notification. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Have a nice week.

Anthony Lewis, Phone: 323-229-7722

Email: lewis.anthony@me.com President Elect 2015

Members are Talking About... DISC Certification

Anthony Lewis — Wed, 21 Oct 2015 16:54:31 GMT

The chapter partnered with Resources Unlimited to offer members a comprehensive two-day DISC Certification train the trainer course held in September 2015. Hosted by Jeanette, Training Manager at Logix Credit Union, we had several excited participants. You could be the next host of a future certification course, and get a special deal as the venue host, click here if interested. Checkout those smiling facing in the graduation photo below.

Happy participants shared: " Excellent workshop. I took this session as a "tune up" for DiSC , as I had not used it in a few years. Judy's session far surpassed the session I took 10 years ago or so! Thank you so much."

"Thanks Jeanette for sending the pic and for hosting the workshop. Meaningful class, awesome group of women, and flawless facilitator!"

"Exceptionally well-done session. Judy has tremendous insights regarding the assessment and usability of EverythingDiSC, as did the participants. I'll definitely be on the lookout for more wonderful experiences brought out by ATD!!"

"Loved the workshop! Very enlightening."

September Presidents Message

Anthony Lewis — Sat, 19 Sep 2015 14:37:22 GMT

Special Renewal Offer and My Leave of Absence

This month, my team and I would like to extend a special invitation to our former members to discover ATD-LA’s new event formats at a discounted rate. All lapsed members will receive an email with instructions to redeem this discounted rate.

This year, we implemented many changes for our chapter, such as:

Updated chapter website
Short "TEDTalk" style chapter meeting
More networking time
Certification programs, such as DISC (09 24/25)
Monthly themes for events

Increased membership numbers and the feedback we received showed us that our members like and appreciate these changes. We’d love to invite our former members back to experience our new event formats for themselves.

On a personal note, September will be my last full month in my role as President. My husband and I welcome our first baby who will make his big entrance in early November. We’re very excited.

I will start my ATD maternity leave in mid-October. Anthony Lewis, our 2015 President Elect, will take over chapter leadership a bit earlier than anticipated. Anthony and I have partnered in our efforts to lead the chapter and to implement change for the past year. I’m very glad to leave the chapter in his capable hands. I look forward to continuing my work with ATD-LA in 2016 in my role as Past President.

Story-Based elearning Design Offer

Anthony Lewis — Fri, 18 Sep 2015 21:24:00 GMT

Greetings from Vignettes Learning!

We invite your members, their colleagues, friends and followers of your chapter to the Story-Based eLearning Workshop in LA (Pasadena).

Each registered participant could avail of a 25% discount equivalent to over $ 350. Standard rate is: Fee: $1,495 per participant.

Class Held: October 14-15, 2015

Location: The Athenaeum, 551 South Hill Street, Pasadena, CA 91116

Telephone 626-395-8200 Email Address: athdesk@caltech.edu

SPECIAL REGISTRATION FOR DISCOUNT REQUEST

Below is the special registration process for them to follow:

1. Go to: http://vignetteslearning.com/vignettes/contactus.php

2. Fill out all the details completely.

3. In the subject line please enter: Workshop Registration with a Discount to the 2015 Story-Based eLearning Design Workshop in LA(Pasadena)

4. In the message box please enter this : "I would like to register for the Story-Based eLearning Design Workshop in LA(Pasadena) and avail of the 25% Discount for ATD LA. Please send me further instructions."

Eagle's Flight offers ATD LA Complimentary Workshops

Anthony Lewis — Wed, 16 Sep 2015 22:13:32 GMT

Eagle's Flight offers ATD Complimentary Workshops - Sept. 23 in Dana Point & Sept. 24 in San Diego

We have two workshops coming up next week where you can experience for yourself the impact of Eagle’s Flight’s learning approach. You are invited to participate in one or both but space is limited so reply soon. Feel free to share with your colleagues and learning contacts.

We are facilitating a culture transformation workshop on September 23 at a very cool location! Here are the details:

Location: Dana Point Harbor Ocean Institute
Address: 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, CA
Date: September 23, 2015
Time: 8:30 – 12:30PM PT

Workshop Agenda:

An experiential activity that helps clarify the power and purpose of any culture shift

What this means to your organization
Application Workshop – Key questions to be answered ensuring the success of the transformation
Building a “next steps” action plan

BREAK DOWN SILOS AND CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT OF TRUST.

You’re invited to participate in our business simulation, Promises, Promises! in San Diego on Thursday, September 24th.

Promises, Promises! is a rich, interactive, learning experience providing a parallel for the world we face at work every day—a world where people deal with the pressures and obstacles of interdependent teams needing to build strong relationships, demonstrate quality communication to get quality results. Session participants will learn to:

Experience the impact of a “we” versus “me” focus
Understand the importance of fostering a trusting environment through a global focus
Learn how to maximize productivity through a win/win approach
Identify how to deliver exceptional quality and service through effective communication

CLICK HERE to learn more about this no charge event. Let me know if you have any questions, contact:

Connie Barber

Manager, Business Development

Eagle’s Flight of America, Inc.

Office: 1-877-912-4731

www.eaglesflight.com

Presidents Message August 2016

Anthony Lewis — Wed, 05 Aug 2015 17:14:36 GMT

My team and I are happy to be back after our short summer break in July!

This month, we’re going to take a look different aspects of Leadership and Leadership Development. Many of us have probably already designed and/or facilitated leadership development programs. In case you’re interested in further developing these skills, ATD National offers a great certificate program on August 17/18 in Los Angeles on Creating Leadership Development Programs.

But what about your own leadership skills? As Talent Development professionals, we’re expected to assume leadership positions in organizations, and to provide leadership to our clients.

We have two great learning events coming up this month that give you tools to strengthen your own leadership skills: Decision making and personal resilience. On August 20, TEDx presenter Dave Jensen will talk about research, as well as personal experience to help you apply a simple process to improve the quality of your decisions. Here’s a link to his engaging TEDx presentation on the Leader’s Paradox.

On August 29, our workshop on Personal Resilience will teach Participants the importance of resiliency and we will practice new techniques and behaviors that will enhance our ability to quickly recover from stressors and challenges and maintain positive functioning.

Last, but definitely not least: ATD-LA is looking for new Board members. The Call for Nominations is open until August 31. Please get in touch with us if you or someone you know is interested in getting involved.

I’m looking forward to connecting with you at one of our upcoming events.

Katrin Kaehler, ATD-LA President

Elearning Classes Held in Aug / Sept 2015

Anthony Lewis — Sun, 02 Aug 2015 17:52:13 GMT

Register by August 15, 2015, for a 20% discount. To save, use promo code SUMED15 at checkout. Use chapter code to designate ATD-LA as your chapter: CH8028

ELearning Instruction Design Certificate

Elevate your training to a virtual level with asynchronous e-learning programs.

Next Online Offering: September 3-24, 2015 | Learn More | Register

*Register for the upcoming August 11, 2015 webcast hosted by Allen Interactions, Inc.:The Agile Advantages For Reducing Common Learning Development Pain Points

Designing Learning Certificate

The complete foundational program for designing outcome-based training.

Next Online Offering: September 3–October 15, 2015 | Learn More | Register

NEW! Essentials of Effective Compliance E-Learning

Develop compliance e-learning that actually sticks.

Next Online Offering: September 9-23, 2015 | Learn More | Register

NEW! Essentials of Storyboarding for E-Learning

Document your design for maximum efficiency.

Next Online Offering: September 10-24, 2015 | Learn More | Register

Essentials of Identifying Public Funding for Training

Learn how grants can enhance your organization’s training program.

Next Online Offering: September 10-24, 2015 | Learn More | Register

*Source: http://www.evolllution.com/opinions/research-corporate-training-and-its-effect-on-the-individual-and-the-corporation

**This offer expires August 15, 2015, at 11:59 p.m. EDT, and cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Offer is only valid on certificate programs and Essentials Series online workshops from June 21 through December 31, 2015. The discount cannot be applied to the ATD Master Trainer™ Program, the ATD Master Instructional Designer™ Program, the ATD Master Performance Consultant™ Program, Visual Storytelling, any preconference programs, the Essentials Series Annual Pass, or on-site programs. This offer is valid for new registrations not made under a pre-existing contract. Promotion is valid on multiple-session purchases and is nontransferrable. Prices are subject to change. You must use promotional code SUMED15 to qualify.

Seeking Train the Trainer Series Course

Anthony Lewis — Tue, 28 Jul 2015 14:04:12 GMT

Hello Members and Consultants,

We have heard from a few members that are interested in attending a contemporary train-the-trainer course specifically: (a.) designing learning and (b) delivering training skills.

The ATD-LA Board Learning Event team is in the discovery phase and flexible to discuss and review potential dates (held in 2016), format, learning objectives and agenda.

If you offer this type of program, get great results, and would like to volunteer to assist the chapter, please contact us. Or, let us know if you know of a consultant that provide this type of service.

Please fill in this form: http://www.astdla.org/Speaker-Interest-Form

Thanks,

Anthony Lewis, President Elect 2015

Association for Talent Development - Los Angeles Chapter

Presidents Message ~ June 2015

Denise Ross — Mon, 08 Jun 2015 21:22:45 GMT

A few more days, and we're officially in Summer!

We have two exciting events planned for this month: On June 18, we'll host our Half-Year Mixer. As we're already half way through 2015, we'd love to hear what you've done best so far and what challenges you encountered. Come join us at the June Mixer for an exchange of ideas and to make fresh connections.

On June 19, ATD-LA proudly presents LA Learn Tech, a one-day mini conference on Learning Technologies. We have five engaging keynote speakers lined up to present on topics such as the psychology of learning, training program management, LMS administration, and the latest trends in e-learning.

Meeting venues

ATD-LA is looking for low/no cost venues for chapter meetings, mixers and, above all, our 2015 Holiday Party. If you know of any venues that might be a good fit, please let us know! We appreciate your help.

My team and I are looking forward to connecting with you at one of our upcoming events.

Katrin Kaehler
President

Proposed Changes Chapter Bylaws

Sat, 06 Jun 2015 20:40:16 GMT

ATD-LA's Board of Directors has reviewed the Chapter Bylaws and proposes several changes. These changes reflect the new chapter name (ATD Los Angeles), as well as updates in the titles and number of Board positions and the protocol on how to conduct Board meetings.

Please take a minute to read the document. The voting is going to take place during our upcoming Board meeting on 06/13/2015, which is open for all members to attend.

Presidents Message May 2015

Denise Ross — Thu, 07 May 2015 14:28:54 GMT

Spring is finally here! For me, spring is a wonderful time to declutter and make room for new things.

I love filling my mind with new ideas and inspirations - and May is a great time to do exactly that. ATD hosts its International Conference and Exhibition (ICE) on May 17-20. Renowned experts are going to talk about current trends in talent development. ATD-LA will keep you updated on the conference and help you find other professionals in your area who are going to attend.

We are very interested in hearing your thoughts on current trends and developments in our profession. Throughout the month, we are going to have discussions with you, online and offline, to hear your opinion on this topic. What do you think is essential for us to know that probably wasn’t as important a few years ago?

For me, the first thing that comes to mind is probably Learning Technology. That's why I am excited about our June event highlight: ATD-LA's first L.A. Learn Tech Conference. We have five excellent speakers lined up to discuss different aspects of learning technology. If you ask yourself questions like ‘How do I get my LMS up to speed quickly?’, or ‘Should I incorporate mobile learning into our offering?’ this might be a great event for you.

Let's get inspired by fresh ideas and current trends. I'm looking forward to hear your thoughts.

Happy May!

Katrin Kaehler
President

We’re Looking for Venues...

Denise Ross — Wed, 06 May 2015 21:56:24 GMT

We’re Looking for Venues...

Currently we’re seeking a medium size venue for our annual holiday party held in early December 2015. We would like to announce the location as soon as possible so our members can plan to attend. Can you help?

Our membership reaches an expansive geographical territory and our members reside across the Los Angeles county lines.

To better support face-to-face events, like Board and chapter meetings, as a non-profit organization, we are looking for very low to no-cost venues. Venues can be of different sizes and locations.

Become a host! If we use your event, we can offer you and your team a special host rate at the event. This is an opportunity to spotlight your company with in-kind advertising too.

Contact Us

Interested in providing a venue, facility or meeting space, please fill in this form:
In Kind Venue

President's Message April 2015 ~ ATD-LA 100% Achievement of Chapter CARE!

Denise Ross — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 22:49:29 GMT

ATD-LA 100% Achievement of Chapter CARE!

The ATD-LA Board is happy to announce that our Los Angeles Chapter has successfully fulfilled all 18 CARE elements and has received recognition from ATD National for 100% CARE achievement. CARE is a program of ATD National, standing for "Chapter Affiliation Requirements" and is a system for ensuring the quality of Chapters nation-wide.

What does this mean for members? ATD-LA is doing the best to serve you, our members. 100% CARE achievement certifies that our administration, finances, membership, professional development, and communications are aligned with ATD National best practices and standards of excellence.

We are proud of this recognition, and even prouder to be part of our vibrant and distinguished learning community. If you have suggestions on how we can make ATD-LA even better, please, contact us.

Katrin Kaehler
President

Looking for a Job or Qualified Candidates? Try our Job Bulletin Board!

Denise Ross — Wed, 01 Apr 2015 22:29:37 GMT

Hello Employers and Job Seekers,

Did you know that ATD-Los Angeles offers a “free” job listing bulletin board? Yes, it’s available to you twenty-four hours a day at no cost. Our bulletin board is designed specifically for talent development related positions, like: training managers, organizational development consultants, instructors, learning specialists, instructional designers and others.

EMPLOYERS

Looking for an instructional designer, instructor, organizational development specialist, training manager or leadership development professional? When you use the ATD-Los Angeles job bulletin board your postings can reach hundreds of talent management and human resources professionals from around the Los Angeles and the nearby communities. It’s simple and free to use! Click here to post a job.

JOB SEEKERS

Tired of your current job or need a new job? Do you want to transition your career as talent management professional? Use our Members Only job bulletin board to stay in touch with local opportunities. It’s easy for you to stay in touch because we have active social media too! Search the job board, just log in with you membership account and then click here for listings.

Better yet, if you’re currently not an ATD-Los Angeles member, but want to be, join our chapter today and take advantage of our many local benefits. Various membership levels are available to those that currently have a job and we offer a temporary reduced rate for those in transition without a job. Join today ~ click here.

Katrin Kaehler

President

7 Benefits of Joining ATD-LA's CPLP Virtual Study Group

Denise Ross — Wed, 25 Mar 2015 23:00:03 GMT

7 Benefits of Joining ATD-LA's CPLP Virtual Study Group

Benefit #1: Structure your study with a schedule of topics. It's tough to keep up your motivation to keep your independent study on track. ATD-LA's study group provides a structure to ensure you're covering all topics and progressing on your goal of receiving certification.

Benefit #2: Tap into the knowledge of your peers. We can't all be experts in all topics! With ATD-LA's study group you'll have access to peers with expertise to gain knowledge, discuss ideas, and ask questions.

Benefit #3: Certification enhances your credibility. Prove your worth in the industry and with employers. CPLP certification endorses you as an informed and capable talent development professional.

Benefit #4: The virtual study group gives you a learning community with flexibility. ATD-LA's study group is a virtual community, allowing you to skip the hassle of traffic, parking, and taking needless time out of your Saturday. Need to miss a session? No problem, get in touch with the instructor or participants to catch up.

Benefit #5: Only need support in a couple competency areas? ATD-LA's study group is offering an a la carte option - pick and choose your study sessions at the affordable rate of $15/class.

Benefit #6: Comprehensive coverage of the competency areas you need. ATD-LA's study group will cover the CPLP exam topic areas, including performance improvement, instructional design, training delivery, learning technologies, evaluating and monitoring learning, coaching, change management, and more!

Benefit #7: Expertise. ATD-LA's study group sessions are led by experts in each area, guiding your through the knowledge needed in each competency. These experts will share knowledge, engage you in discussion, and answer all the questions you have to prepare you for the certification exam.

Click here for more information on this study group that begins on April 18 and to register!

President's Message ~ March

Denise Ross — Fri, 06 Mar 2015 23:05:44 GMT

Dear Members and Friends,

Time flies, it's March already. Where did the year go?! I just wanted to take a minute to say hello and update you on what's new with ATD-LA.

I'm proud to share that on February 28, ATD-LA hosted a wonderful workshop on Career Strategies Development delivered by Anthony Lewis ATD-LA President Elect. Over 40 participants attended.

A special thanks to Michele De Rosa, Mike Thompson, Lynnette Ward, Karen Hanen and Maribel Hines who volunteered to offer individual career coaching conversations to our participants. This topic was very relevant to many. Plus, the reasonable registration price of the event was attractive.

We also had over 30 people at the last chapter meeting. I invite you to continue the momentum in March by attending the chapter meeting held on March 19, the topic is Global Talent Management.

We also have a workshop on March 21: Talent Development Leaders Roundtable,Topic: ATD State of the Industry Report 2014. If you're interested in organizational and talent development, please join us! I'd love to see you there.

We're looking for volunteers to partner with us to lead the following functions: Treasurer, Secretary, Director of Membership, Webinar Manager and a volunteer to help with event management. If you or anyone in your network are interested, please contact me.

Spring forward!

I look forward to spending time with you at one of our upcoming events.

Katrin Kaehler

President's Message

Denise Ross — Wed, 11 Feb 2015 18:56:04 GMT

Dear Members and Friends of ATD-Los Angeles,

I hope New Year started well for you. A New Year is always a fresh start, full of opportunity. Our team at ATD-Los Angeles is excited about this opportunity and happy to present you our plans for 2015.

We have created a great annual program that will help you develop your career, deepen your professional knowledge and expand your network. Based on your feedback, we made the following changes and enhancements to our offering:

Monthly themes that showcase a talent development topic

January    2015 – a New Year and new ATD!

February   Career Development

March       Global Talent Management

April         Training Fundamentals

May           ATD International Conference and Exposition Month: Innovation
     and Current Trends in Talent Development

June          Learning Technologies

July           Designing Learning / Instructional Design

August      Leadership Development

September Change Management

October    Coaching and Mentoring

November Advanced Training Facilitation and Delivery

December Employee Learning

Localized events with direct alignment to the ATD Competency Model
Short “TEDTalk” presentations at chapter meetings that allow more time for networking
CPLP study group aimed to boost your talent development career
New, discounted membership option for members who are currently in transition
Quarterly new member orientation

Being a member of ATD-Los Angeles is a great way to keep up to date with what is happening in our industry and to network with talent development professionals.

If you are not a member, or want to renew to take advantage of our new format, click here to take advantage of the many benefits of membership.

I look forward to spending time with you at one of our upcoming events and hope you enjoy this new format.

Katrin Kaehler
2015 President

Pardon our dust... Improve we must!

Denise Ross — Sat, 06 Dec 2014 17:49:58 GMT

With efforts to transition from American Society for Training & Development (ASTD) to the Association for Talent Development (ATD) branding, our chapter website will be updated.

During December 2014, ATD-Los Angeles will be making several changes to the chapter website and communications. This means that over time you will begin to see some exciting and new things, like:

New chapter banner
New ATD-Los Angeles logo
New branded style format
Layout adjustments to several pages
New email address
And other refinements

Many of these changes will be taking place this Friday and Saturday. So please pardon our dust! If you are having trouble with a page this weekend, wait until later in the day on Saturday and try again.

Over the next few weeks, if you experience any technical issues or find any broken links along the way, please contact our main office at: Office@ATDLA.org.

We are committed to providing you with an easy to use and more contemporary website. We look forward to transitioning into the New Year with an updated look.

Sincerely,

Your ATD-Los Angeles Leadership Team

ASTD-LA is becoming ATD-LA!

Denise Ross — Wed, 29 Oct 2014 18:17:52 GMT

Did you hear the news? Our chapter is excited to announce that on May 6, during a special live announcement at the ASTD 2014 International Conference & Exposition, in Washington, D.C., President and CEO, Tony Bingham, and the Board of Directors announced that ASTD is changing its name to the Association for Talent Development (ATD).

Over the next few months, you will notice our chapter’s transition to our new name and brand beginning with the introduction of our new chapter logo.

While our name may be changing, the chapter’s board of directors want to assure you the local programming, networking, and services you have come to value and enjoy through the chapter will not change, nor will the chapter’s mission and vision. Like national ATD, training and development will remain at the core of our chapter, and we pledge our service and commitment to you is stronger than ever.

We will continue to keep you abreast of our change, and look forward to you joining us on this journey; together, we are creating a world that works better!

For more information and to review ATD’s new name and announcement materials, please visit www.astdnews.org.

Now Taking Nominations for the 2015 Board of Directors!

Denise Ross — Sat, 23 Aug 2014 17:30:29 GMT

Your Chapter needs YOU! Many of our board members are rotating off this year, so we have several board positions and support roles to fill. The chapter is only as strong at it's leadership.

The following positions are open for 2015:

Secretary
Treasurer
Co-Directors of Chapter Meetings (2 openings)
Co-Directors of Learning (2 openings)
Director of Marketing
Director of Membership
Co-Director of Special Divisions

In addition, we are looking for a sponsorship coordinator, as well as team members for all of our board positions.

Please take a look at our Leadership Page, and contact Katrin Kaehler at PresidentElect@astdla.org to find out more and express your interest.

Here's what you missed at the June Chapter Meeting: Why Training Departments Hate Their LMS (Panel Discussion Filmed by eLearningTV)

Denise Ross — Wed, 06 Aug 2014 22:47:55 GMT

Why Training Departments Hate Their LMS

3-part Panel Discussion Filmed by eLearningTV at the ASTD-LA June Chapter Meeting

Why do Training Departments Hate Their Learning Management System? from eLearningTV on Vimeo.

ASTD Los Angeles - Panel Discussion Episode #2- Successful LMS Implementation from eLearningTV on Vimeo.

ASTD Los Angeles – Panel Discussion Episode #3- from eLearningTV on Vimeo.

Panelists Wanted!

Denise Ross — Tue, 03 Jun 2014 03:26:40 GMT

For our upcoming June Chapter Meeting, we're looking for three panelists who would like to share their experience with LMS in a facilitated discussion.

Are you an HR Manager who just started working with a new LMS? Are you a training professional who uses an LMS?

Share your experience with other learning professionals!
Contact preselect@astdla.org until 06/06/14 for more information.

ASTD National Certificate Courses coming to LA

Denise Ross — Fri, 14 Feb 2014 19:05:13 GMT

Did you Know...

that ASTD National will be offering 5 certificate courses in the LA area (El Segundo) this year?

Managing Learning Programs Certificate, March 24-26
Designing Learning Certificate, April 16-18
Training Certificate, April 16-18
E-Learning Instructional Design Certificate, July 10-11
Project Management for Learning Professionals Certificate, September 8-9

To register directly for any of these courses:

Click on the course link, and follow the instructions there. Be sure to use the ChIP code CH8028, when registering for these or any other products or courses from National ASTD.

What is the The Chapter Incentive Program (ChIP Code)?

It is an ASTD National revenue-sharing program that offers chapters an opportunity to earn additional revenue, when you purchase ASTD National programs, memberships, and services. But you have to enter the Chapter ChIP Code on the order form for the chapter to get credit.

The Los Angeles Chapter's ChIP Code is CH8028, and can be found in the weekly eblast sidebar and in the "About Us" section on the website.

Every person that uses the source code when making a purchase online at the National ASTD Store or over the phone will be contributing to the Los Angeles Chapter's financial health, further enabling the chapter to accomplish its mission. We thank you for your support in using the ChiP 8028!

Mentoring Program is Now Accepting Applications

Denise Ross — Mon, 27 Jan 2014 17:48:42 GMT

The aim of this six-month program is to match seasoned members who are ready, willing, and able to provide support and advice to chapter members, (mentees) who are:

Looking to develop or enhance a skill set
Willing to take action and break paradigms
In search of advice in a certain business discipline or area
Seeking professional development support

All participants must be an ASTD-LA chapter member and in good standing throughout the entire cycle of the program.

Application deadline is 5:00 PM, Monday, Feb 24. Click Here for more information on becoming a mentor or mentee.

ASTD-LA Wins theChapter of the Month Award for January 2014

Denise Ross — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 00:45:07 GMT

The Los Angeles Chapter of the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD) was named an ASTD Chapter of the Month (COM) for January 2014. The COM is national recognition for ASTD local chapters that have demonstrated strength, growth, and innovation in managing their chapter.

Rhonda Bothwell, chair of ASTD’s Chapter Recognition Committee, which awards the Chapter of the Month honor, said, ”This prestigious award recognizes the Los Angeles Chapter for demonstrating innovative and unique approaches in providing great value to their members and workplace learning professionals in the community, including professional development, networking, and leading information about trends in the workplace learning industry. The Los Angeles Chapter is a leading example for serving members and other ASTD chapter leaders with opportunities to learn and grow from each other. We are pleased to recognize the chapter with ASTD’s Chapter of the Month award,” Bothwell said.

Dissertation Research Request- Ethics in the Workplace

Denise Ross — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 00:23:00 GMT

Deadline is January 17, 2014

My name is Rob Major. I am a PhD student at Alliant International University in San Diego, California. I am currently conducting my dissertation research on peer reporting behavior in organizations and am recruiting participants with a human resources and/or industrial psychology background. The requirements for participation are that you have a Master's degree or higher and 3+ years of work experience. The estimated time for completion is 30 minutes. At the end of the survey you will have the opportunity to include your email address in a drawing for a $100 Visa gift card.

If you have any questions or know of anyone that would like to participate in the survey please contact me at rmajor@alliant.edu. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Rob Major, MS

Follow this link to the Survey:

https://alliant.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_cuA0l7dpSD0JI7b

Call for HPIT Cases

Denise Ross — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 00:22:15 GMT

CALL FOR CASES
Proposal Submission Deadline: January 30, 2014

Cases on Human Performance Improvement Technologies

A book edited by Dr. Jill Stefaniak, Old Dominion University, USA
To be published by IGI Global.

Introduction

Human performance technology (HPT) is a systematic approach for improving performance that takes into account organizational, environmental, and causal analyses to make data-driven decisions regarding intervention design, implementation, and evaluation (ISPI, 2013). Principles of HPT are used in a variety of different industries to solve problems, assist with quality improvement initiatives, and identify future business opportunities. Performance improvement technologists take the entire organizational environment into account when developing strategies and interventions to address organizational needs.

This casebook will provide educators, students, and practitioners with an opportunity to see how principles of human performance technology were implemented in various contexts and industries. Like most fields, students are taught best practices, but are not always privy to understanding the challenges that can occur when attempting to implement solutions in the real world. Lack of resources, organizational buy-in, and timing can all hinder performance, requiring practitioners to work creatively to implement solutions within a given timeframe.

Objective of the Book

The overall mission of this book is to provide educators in the field of human performance technology, organizational development, educational technology, and business management with a compilation of case studies based on real-life experiences that can be integrated within their classes. The goals for this case book are to:

1) Provide relevant cases that demonstrate how principles of HPT have been employed within organizations.

2) Provide examples of how HPT has been utilized in a variety of different industries, and provide a combination of examples that address business problems, quality improvement initiatives and business opportunities.

Case studies included in this book will address, but are not limited to, the following topics:

Conducting performance analyses
Solving business problems
Embarking on projects to address quality improvement initiatives
Identifying business opportunities within an organization
Identifying and selecting performance improvement interventions
Determining when to design instructional or noninstructional interventions
Implementing instructional and/or noninstructional interventions
Addressing change management within an organization
Methods of evaluation
Employee development
Change in workflow procedures
Changes in organizational structure
Business partnerships and acquisitions
Change management
Knowledge management and learning
Project management

Submission Procedure

Researchers and practitioners are invited to submit on or before January 30, 2014, a 2-3 page case proposal clearly explaining the subject, mission and concerns of his or her proposed case. Authors of accepted proposals will be notified by February 15, 2014 about the status of their proposals and sent case guidelines. Authors will be expected to adhere to these guidelines exactly. Full cases are to be submitted by May 30, 2014. All submitted cases will be reviewed on a double-blind review basis. Contributors may also be requested to serve as reviewers for this project.

Publisher

This book is scheduled to be published by IGI Global (formerly Idea Group Inc.), publisher of the “Information Science Reference” (formerly Idea Group Reference), “Medical Information Science Reference,” “Business Science Reference,” and ‘Engineering Science Reference” imprints. For additional information regarding the publisher, please visit www.igi-global.com. This publication is anticipated to be released in 2015.

Important Dates

January 30, 2014: Proposal Submission Deadline

February 15, 2014: Notification of Acceptance

May 30, 2014: Full Chapter Submission

July 30, 2014: Review Results to Authors

August 30, 2014: Final Chapter Submission

September 30, 2014: Final Acceptance Notifications

November 30, 2014: Final Deadline

Inquiries

Inquiries and submissions can be forwarded electronically (Word Document):

Dr. Jill Stefaniak at hptcasebook@gmail.com

Click here to submit a proposal:

http://www.igi-global.com/publish/call-for-papers/call-details/1174

Green hats, ice-cream and soap ~ members think outside the box at ASTD-LA’s Leadership Involvement Day (by Katrin Kaehler)

Denise Ross — Tue, 26 Nov 2013 01:15:59 GMT

On Saturday, November 9, ASTD-Los Angeles hosted its annual Leadership Involvement Day. This half-day workshop is a great opportunity for our members to actively participate in the leadership of the chapter.

President Ellen Krause welcomed the attendees and 2014 president Jeff O’Dell introduced the 2014 Board of Directors.

This year, the attendees enjoyed trying out lateral thinking techniques that facilitators Bill Bellows and Tim Higgins previously introduced at our April Chapter Meeting.

In a group exercise, our members generated ideas on how ASTD-LA can better cater to the needs of different target groups, such as external consultants or non-profits.

In using the “Random-Word-Technique,” the attendees had to use a specific word, for example “soap,” to generate ideas on a certain topic.

For example, one member associated soap with the word “bar.” Immediately somebody connected the dots and said, “We should have more opportunities to socialize at ASTD. Why not have some chapter meetings at a bar?”

In the second part of the workshop, the attendees discussed ASTD-LA’s value proposition. Does our current value proposition “Driving Learning – Leading Innovation- Building Community” still represent ASTD-LA? If not, how would you change it?

Our board members left the workshop with a wealth of valuable ideas. As a next step, our members will receive a survey in which they can vote on their favorite ideas for the chapter, as well as on ASTD-LA’s updated value proposition.

ICELW Call for Proposal Opportunity

Denise Ross — Wed, 30 Oct 2013 17:45:22 GMT

ICELW 2014, the seventh annual International Conference on E-Learning in the Workplace, will be held from June 11-13, 2014 at Columbia University in New York.

The Call for Proposals is now open and the deadline is December 16th, 2013. To submit a proposal, please use the proposal submission form on http://www.icelw.org/proposals/submit.html.

ICELW welcomes anyone with a background or interest in e-learning in the workplace, including researchers, consultants, and corporate trainers, managers, and directors.

Topics of particular interest for ICELW 2014 include those demonstrating best practices in the workplace, panel/roundtable discussions, and sessions involving participation among attendees. See http://www.icelw.org/proposals/call.html for more info.

Volunteer Spotlight ~ Kristen Magnuson

Denise Ross — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:19:18 GMT

Throughout the year we will be shining the spotlight on various wonderful and talented ASTD LA volunteers. Currently the stage belongs to Kristen Magnuson.

We thank Kristen for pulling Triple-Duty Volunteerism on the board of ASTD LA. Kristen came onboard as Co-Director of Learning, filling what is normally a two-director role by herself. That wasn’t enough. Kristen stepped up to fill the vacant Director of Chapter Meetings seat as well.

We’re proud to announce that in recognition of Kristen’s hard work and devotion, she has been awarded free admission to an ASTD National certificate program in 2013. Congratulations, Kristen!

Kristen came to serve on the board of ASTD LA after founding and launching the Social Enterprise Alliance, LA. She has a B.A. in Philosophy, a J.D. and has completed the chapter's Train the Trainer program. She is the founder of The Advancement Center, an organization devoted to removing blocks to success both individually and in organizations. She is a pioneer in applying energy psychology tools in team building, facilitation and training so clients can drop learned limitations to success.

Currently, Kristen serves as the Director of Learning as well the Director of Chapter Events. She is grateful for the opportunity to further her lifelong interests in collective success and collaboration. She sees these roles as demonstrating her motto "Together We're Better."

ASTD National Certificate Courses coming to LA

Denise Ross — Sat, 13 Apr 2013 00:11:10 GMT

Did you Know...

that ASTD National will be offering 5 certificate courses in the LA area (El Segundo) this year?

Designing Learning	4/15/2013	4/17/2013
Training Certificate	4/15/2013	4/17/2013
Blended Learning	7/15/2013	7/16/2013
E-Learning Instructional Design	7/15/2013	7/16/2013
Project Management for Learning Professionals	9/9/2013	9/10/2013

Remember to use the Chapter Incentive Program code (ChIP code) when registering: CH8028.

Special Division March Madness

Denise Ross — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:15 GMT

No Chapter Meeting in March. Instead, join us for...

Instead of a regular monthly chapter meeting, we would like to encourage everyone to visit the meetings of our special divisions.

There's a lot to explore:

great key note speakers
networking opportunities
and maybe even new friends.

Special division meetings are free for members; non-members are asked to pay $10 for each meeting.

Visit the Special Division calendar for a list of upcoming Special Division Meetings in March!

And because we love gamification, we attached a challenge to march madness: The member who attends the most SD meetings in March will get a 40% discount on an ASTD-LA workshop/webinar of choice in 2013!

Here are the details:

Download this attendance sheet (or use a blank piece of paper).
When you attend a meeting, please write down the date, the Special Division Name and have the SD Leader sign your sheet.
If you attend a virtual meeting, either print the online attendee list with your name on it, or ask the director (via chat pod) to send you a confirmation email.
At the end of the month, send the scanned attendance paper to specialdivisions@astdla.org
The deadline to submit your form is Friday, April 5.

Good Luck!

Rocketdyne Mentoring Opportunity just for ASTD-LA Members

Denise Ross — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 19:10:08 GMT

We are pleased to announce a mentoring opportunity for as many as 5 ASTD-Los Angeles chapter members in a partnership with Bill Bellows of Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne and Tim Higgins of NASA. Together with Cade Wilson, Bill and Tim delivered a well-received presentation at our May 2012 meeting on the topic of "Collaboration: YES Group Think: NO - Moving From Black Hats and Red Pens to Green Hats and Blue Pens.

In looking ahead to 2013, we've made plans for our April meeting to be held at Rocketdyne's office in Canoga Park, where Bill, Tim, and Cade will present again. In preparation for the meeting, we are looking for members who would like to attend Rocketdyne's "InThinking Together" seminar early in 2013, learn more about the collaboration ideas presented in May, and then be mentored by Bill and Tim in how to share these ideas with others in your respective training and development roles. The mentoring opportunity includes sharing "lessons learned" from this learning process with fellow ASTD members at our April meeting.

Please contact Bill Bellows by email at william.bellows@pwr.utc.com or Jeff O'Dell at PresElect@astdla.org to learn more about this offer.

Mentoring Program Now Accepting Applications!

Denise Ross — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 19:06:44 GMT

The aim of this six-month program is to match seasoned members who are ready, willing, and able to provide support and advice to chapter members, (mentees) who are:

Looking to develop or enhance a skill set
Willing to take action and break paradigms
In search of advice in a certain business discipline or area
Seeking professional development support

All participants must be an ASTD-LA chapter member and in good standing throughout the entire cycle of the program.

Application deadline is 2/25/2013. Click here for more information on becoming a mentor or mentee.

Welcome to our Newest Board Members:

Denise Ross — Tue, 15 Jan 2013 19:05:36 GMT

Katrin Kaehler - Co Director Special Divisions
Melissa Burns - Co Director Community Services
Michele La Fleur -Director Marketing

But ASTD-Los Angeles still Needs YOU! We still have the following openings on our 2013 Board of Director Leadership Team. If you are interested in making a difference and want more information, please contact Ellen Krause at president@astdla.org.

Director of Chapter Meetings
Director of Communications
Director of Membership
Co-Directors of Technology and Social Media
Co-Director of Learning
Co-Director of Special Divisions

In Memory of Roz Teller ~ April 14, 1946-August 31, 2012

Denise Ross — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 19:18:48 GMT

Roz (Rosalind) Teller, 66, passed away 8/31/2012 of lung cancer. Ms. Teller, CEO of Teller Associates, was highly regarded by nonprofit professionals whose community work was the focus of her consulting business. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Barlow Respiratory Hospital or Democractic Party of the San Fernando Valley.

In Memory of Ron Reifler ~ ASTD-LA President 1987

Denise Ross — Tue, 04 Dec 2012 19:57:01 GMT

Ron Reifler died of cancer on September 12th in Los Angeles. At 86 he loved life, felt young, and hoped to do more. Born and raised in Chicago, Ron enlisted as a navigator in the Air Force in 1943-1945 then earned his M.B.A. from the University of Chicago in 1948. He taught economics to graduate students at Claremont Men’s College in Southern California in the early 1950s and returned to Chicago as a management consultant with Booz Allen & Hamilton. In 1955 he the joined the Fantus Company, which specialized in industrial plant location studies for large corporations and governments; he became Senior Vice President and remained in that position until 1977. He was married to Carolyn Weist, the mother of his children, from 1956 to 1970. Ron contributed to the economic and social development of towns across the U.S. and Canada in the mid-1950s through mid-1970s. After leaving Fantus and until earlier this year he was President of Reifler Associates, an organizational behavioral consulting firm focused on teambuilding and improving human dynamics at workplaces. Partnering with Maria Rosa Escude, his loving wife of 29 years, he helped corporations, governments, and schools to develop more humane working and learning conditions.

Ron served on the Board of Directors of Oasis, the Midwest Center for Human Potential, in the 1970s. Oasis House, located in Chicago, hosted workshops and seminars led by trailblazers of the human potential movement and had close connections with Esalen Institute at Big Sur, California. For many years he worked with leaders of the human potential movement in the Association for Humanistic Psychology and in Virginia Satir’s International Human Learning Resources Network (IHLRN), including serving on the Board of Directors of IHLRN. He also served on the Board of Directors of ASTD, American Society for Training and Development in Los Angeles and later on became President of the Association.

In his final years, he was most proud of his influence on the lives of many children in the Self-Management for Kids Program (selfmanagementforkids.org). With Maria he coauthored a series of books, The Adventures of Elly and Tigy, to accompany the program. Tall, thin, bearded, and a visionary champion of humanity, Ron dedicated his life to teaching and developing the lives of others. He was undaunted by battles with windmills along the way.

He was predeceased by his parents, Gene and Harriet, and by his beloved younger brother, Cliff. He is survived by his wife, Maria, his children, Elizabeth and Doug, his sister, Audrey, his granddaughters, Katherine and Erin, and scores of loving family and friends. A celebration of his life is planned for January 2013 in Los Angeles.

October Chapter Meeting ~ What you missed...

Denise Ross — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 20:30:54 GMT

A dynamic night filled with enthusiasm and inspiration towards nonprofit organizations. Michael Graff-Weisner and Adam Kogeman of Chrysalis, a nonprofit organization providing resources and support to homeless and low-income individuals to find employment and gain a pathway to self-sufficiency, discussed the progression of their training program and five year strategic plan. Chrysalis’ training curriculum was developed and facilitated by volunteers with classes focusing on job preparation, computer and life skills and emphasizing adult learning with interactive exercises emphasizing student participation. Chrysalis has been currently expanding their facilities and continues its mission to find work for people at a time of high unemployment. For more information on Chrysalis, check out their website: www.changelives.org.

Left to right: Sean Bloch, Michael Graff-Weisner,
Jo Lynn Feinstein and Adam Kogeman

Several of our Community Partners were in attendance and briefly spoke about their organizations which included EmpowHer Institute, LA Youth at Work, LA Fellows Program and Leadership Talent Solutions.

Don’t miss our Holiday Giving Tree during our Holiday Party, where we’ll have a variety of volunteer opportunities from our Community Partners available for sign-up.

ASTD Nat'l Classes Coming to Southern California

Denise Ross — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 15:02:59 GMT

The following ASTD National certificate programs will be coming to our area. Click on the links below to see the details of each program.

Training Certificate - October 23 - 25 - San Diego

Blended Learning - November 12 - 13 - San Diego

E-Learning Instructional Design - November 12 - 13 - El Segundo

Project Management for Learning Professionals - November 12 - 13 - El Segundo

To register directly for any of these courses:

Click on the course link, and follow the instructions there. Be sure to use the ChIP code CH8028, when registering for these or any other products or courses from National ASTD.

Silent Raffle for ASTD Nat'l Classes

Denise Ross — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 20:43:26 GMT

Congratulations to our Winner: Omagbitse Jagha!

Here's your chance to win attendance at one of ASTD National's Certificate Courses, no bidding necessary. The following ASTD National certificate programs (values from $1395 to $1695) will be coming to our area. Click on the links below to see the details of each program.

Training Certificate - October 23 - 25 - San Diego

Blended Learning - November 12 - 13 - San Diego

E-Learning Instructional Design - November 12 - 13 - El Segundo

Project Management for Learning Professionals - November 12 - 13 - El Segundo

ASTD-Los Angeles is holding an online raffle for it's members to win one of the above classes. The entry that is drawn will be awarded attendance at the class of their choice. You must be an ASTD-Los Angeles Chapter member in good standing at the time of raffle and at the time the course is attended to be eligible.

If you'd like to be part of the raffle, here's how it works:

The raffle opens on Thursday, September 20, and will remain open until Friday, October 5 at 5 p.m.
Check out the classes above and check your schedule to be sure you can attend. The class is not transferable, if you win.
Login to the website and then go to Members Only >> Silent Raffle for ASTD Nat'l Classes or click here to be taken directly to the page (you must be logged in to access this page)
There you will find the instructions and have the ability to submit your entry.

Remember, this is for ASTD-Los Angeles Chapter Members only! Not yet a member, join us now to take advantage of this opportunity.

To register directly for any of these courses:

Click on the course link, and follow the instructions there. Be sure to use the ChIP code CH8028, when registering for these or any other products or courses from National ASTD.

The Art and Skill of Facilitation – What you Missed!

Denise Ross — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 01:18:10 GMT

Pictures of the Event can be found on our Facebook site.

Over 40 participants gathered to the learn The Art and Skill of Facilitation from experts in the field. Keynote speaker Jeanne Hartley reminded us of the many important skills needed to be a successful facilitator and then sent everyone off to work on those skills! The 90 minute sessions ranged from facilitating experiential learning to facilitating team building. Skills included bringing more awareness your facilitation sessions and taming difficult people you may encounter along the way. The learning continued with tools on facilitating the decision making process of a group and then using new research on how the brain works in appreciative facilitation! The remarkable day of learning ended with a wrap up of the mini-conference with a celebration of the community that was created on Saturday.

Thank you to many outstanding facilitators from the ASTD-LA community who donated their time to make this day possible. Jeanne Hartley, Michael Baroff, Debbie Newman, Ron Milam, Pauline Arneberg, Marty Lasker, Mindy Danna and Mark Strunin.

A "Note" from Your ASTD-Los Angeles President

Denise Ross — Mon, 20 Aug 2012 22:36:34 GMT

Dear Members and Fans of ASTD-LA:

Last week, I was walking out of my office in Century City when I heard some familiar tunes. Turned out that classic performer Eddie Money was rocking out on this random Tuesday afternoon.

I heard the classic hit "Two Tickets to Paradise." As I waited for a couple of other hits, Eddie played some amazing, fresh sounding instrumentals on sax. I still wanted to hear those greatest hits, but I was pleasantly surprised by this fresh music. (Be sure you read through to the end for your own chance to win Two Tickets.)

ASTD-LA is bringing a mix of our greatest hits...

PLUS some great new offerings.

All this from a line-up of true training Rock-Stars! Read on!

The show begins with a real chart topper. This Thursday's August meeting on 5 Principles for Achieving Excellence in the Workplace will be a big hit. If you are on the fence, jump off it and come to a great show! Buy your tickets online now!

The workshop curtains open on Friday, September 7, as Deb Newman brings back one our classics, Train the Trainer. This 5-week hit-packed workshop always brings down the house. I have attended this amazing workshop and can tell you those "Top-10 hit" lessons keep playing in my head!

On Saturday, September 8, ASTD-LA debuts a special Mini-Conference on the Art and Skill of Facilitation led by our own Jeanne Hartley. Along with Jeanne, there are so many all-star performers that you will have to read the line-up yourself. As a tremendous value to our members, we are offering incredible seats at great prices. Don't miss it!

On Thursday, September 27, we have a real rock star back on the ASTD-LA stage. Peter Himmelman, our April chapter meeting presenter, is singing a different tune these days. He uses songwriting as a way of increasing our innovative thinking, team building and leadership skills. Check out this music video at the right, for a preview of this exciting event. You may even spot one your colleagues. It is unlike any training event you will ever attend.

From one star to another, ASTD-LA welcomes a nationally recognized expert in Virtual Training, Cynthia Clay! At the ASTD National Conference, Cynthia played to a packed house. She is so popular that she actually was called back for an encore. (The fire marshals ask that you do not bring lighters to her LA Event on October 19 in Culver City.)

In addition, look for some very special guests. Rumor has it that our own Tom Henschel will bring Advanced Presentation Skills to a show. He ALWAYS sells out. Ellen Krause will provide a FREE show on Improvisational Theater Techniques. And of course, we will continue to provide the smash hits at more intimate venues with our Special Divisions.

Buy your tickets now to an amazing line-up of shows that your Board is bringing to a venue near you. For every paid event you sign-up for by Friday August 24, you will be entered into a raffle for "Two Tickets" to our year end musical. Our musically themed Holiday Party is Thursday, December 13. Good Luck!

We look forward to seeing you!

Sean Bloch
2012 ASTD-LA President

Serve the chapter and serve yourself! 2013 Board of Directors Election Coming in September...

Denise Ross — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 18:58:56 GMT

Board members often state that their time on the Board was among their most valuable experiences at ASTD-LA. This is your opportunity to help steer the chapter toward a successful 2013. There are many exciting positions available. Visit our Chapter Leadership Page to see the positions that make-up the board.

Key Benefits of serving on the ASTD-LA Board:

Work closely with an amazing team of fellow ASTD-LA members
Strengthen your toolkit through challenging experiences and assignments
Make a difference in the ASTD-LA community
Network with Industry Thought Leaders and experts

Ready to Learn more about this exciting opportunity? Contact preselect@astdla.org, and we will be sure to answer all your questions and help determine what position might be right for you.

June Chapter Meeting ~ What you missed...

Denise Ross — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 22:14:30 GMT

What you missed: G. Riley Mills of Pinnacle solutions engaged the attendees of June's ASTD-LA chapter meeting with practical tips to help expand our presentation skills toolbelt. (Photos and Video on ASTD-LA's Facebook page.) G. Riley showed us how great communicators have leveraged key acting principles to better connect with audience. The night started with an ASTD-LA networking exercise to get the audience thinking about the importance of good communication. Missed this one? We will be giving away a copy of the G. Riley Mills book, The Pin Drop Principle at the August Chapter Meeting. See you then. Oh, visit a "secret site" on the www.pinper.com/speeches for a list of famous speeches.

May Chapter Meeting ~ What you missed...

Denise Ross — Tue, 22 May 2012 19:25:25 GMT

Networking

As attendees broke into small groups, they were asked to work together to come up with a networking activity that they would like to see us use at a future chapter meeting. The winning team, as decided by participant applause, would be awarded a free chapter meeting – at which they would facilitate the activity for meeting attendees.

Ideas that the teams came up with included

ASTD Bingo, where people would complete Bingo cards by answering questions related to training
Screen Rotation, in which questions would be displayed on the screen and teams would discuss the questions to form an team response
Business Card Swap, when participants would be paired up to introduce them selves, giving the other person their card. After 5 minutes the pairs would break up and reassemble, but this time the participants would introduce themselves as the person on the card they had received, not as themselves, and once again give ‘their’ card to their partner. Following 5 rounds, people would volunteer to introduce themselves (as the person on the card they now hold). Will the real person recognize him or herself based on this introduction?
35, in which participants write an observation or question on to a 3X5 card. Participants are given a set period of time to exchange cards as many times as they can. Being sure they do not have their own cards, participants are broken into pairs and given a set time to award a total of 7 point to the two cards they hold. No half points are allowed. The pairs break apart and reassemble, again awarding a total of 7 points to the two cards they hold. After 5 rounds, the points awarded to each card are totaled to find the winners.

Congratulations to Melisa Winham, Cyrene Christian, and Noreen McNew who won a free chapter meeting for their 35 networking activity. Join us at the September meeting when they will facilitate the activity for the chapter.

ASTD Competency Model

Following the networking activity, we had a brief discussion of the foundational skills in ASTD’s competency model, reflecting on those skills we draw upon so often that they become second nature.

Collaboration=YES, Group Think=NO

The majority of the meeting was devoted to a Rapid Robin where attendees moved between three outstanding sessions. We explored de Bono’s Six Thinking Hats, lateral thinking tools like random word and concept triangles, and considered what it looks like inside a red pen or a blue pen company. A huge thank you to Bill Bellows, Tim Higgins, and Cade Wilson for facilitating these informative sessions!

So what exactly do you think of when you hear the word taxi, and what could that possibly have to do with bathtubs? Don’t know? Then you missed out on some real learning fun. What a meeting!

See you in June!

Suzanne Szabo, 1993 President, Passed Away on March 1, 2012

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 17:14:22 GMT

Dr. Suzanne E. Szabo, Mount Pleasant, passed away on March 1, 2012, at Washington Hospital Center after a prolonged illness.

Born to Joseph and Mary Szabo (both deceased) of Anderson, South Carolina, she was an applied sociologist who headed a consulting firm, Organizational Research and Consulting. Her clients included the IRS, Ernst & Young, and the Defense Information Systems Agency. Educated at the University of Maryland University College (BA), Boston University (M. Ed.), and North Carolina State University (Ph.D.), she served in leadership positions with the American Society for Training and Development (national, Los Angeles, and DC chapters), and as president of Historic Mt. Pleasant. Known by all as a vivacious, beautiful, and caring person, she is survived only by her life partner, Dr. Joseph Robert White.

Suzanne created the original strategic plan that hasn't really been updated since. Also in 1993 we partnered with the Hawaii chapter to create the 1st international conference before National did and gained a huge profit for our chapter.

In lieu of flowers, Dr. White asks donations to be made in Suzanne's name to one of the following charities that she supported: the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Camps and Ghettos Encyclopedia Project; the Kennedy Center; the Smithsonian Institution; or Historic Mt. Pleasant.

Look What's Coming in 2012

Denise Ross — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:34:10 GMT

Look what fabulous workshop programming we are planning for the rest of the year! As soon as dates are confirmed, they'll be posted on the calendar and you'll be notified in the weekly blast.

May:

Video editing for trainers

June:

Designing word press sites

August:

Captivate Level 2
ISD

September:

Train the Trainer (Fridays)

October:

Web-based facilitation webinar
Facilitation Skills or OD Facilitation Skills

November:

Leadership Day
Graphic Facilitation

Presenting Your 2012 Board of Directors

Denise Ross — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:45:01 GMT

2011 has been a great year for the chapter and the future only looks brighter. It will be my honor to serve as the 2012 ASTD-LA Chapter President. What makes me so optimistic about our future is the community of leaders who are volunteering their valuable time to continue the tradition of our great chapter. It is with great pleasure that I announce the new 2012 ASTD-LA Board of Directors to you.

President-Elect	Sean Bloch

Treasurer	Sue Sorenson

Secretary	Christina Garvey

Directors of Learning	Armin Pajand
	Daphne Williams

Director of Chapter Meetings	Jo Lynn Feinstein

Directors of Communication	Noreen McNew
	Karel Kreshek

Director of Technology	Jeff O’Dell

Directors of Special Divisions	G. Fred Stevens
	Mauricio Guiterrez

Director of Membership	Paula Markgraf-Katz

Director of Community Service	Kimberly James

Please join me in welcoming these amazing leaders.

Sincerely,

Terrence Wing, 2012 ASTD-LA President

Training and Development Panelists needed - Claremont Graduate University

Denise Ross — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 22:12:00 GMT

We are looking for training and development practitioners who would be willing to visit Claremont for an upcoming panel presentation for our graduate students who are studying this area.

Panelists will be asked to give an overview of their experience working in the field of Training and Development, issues they have faced and lessons they have learned. Then, we will open the floor up for questions from the graduate students. I expect there will be 40-50 graduate students in attendance and food will be provided.

The first panel would focus on making strategic decisions about what training to offer in an organization as well as on the practice of delivering training and is scheduled for 4pm, Tuesday September 6.
The second panel would feature L&D practitioners who have been in the field and can speak to a career about training. She’d like a mix, instructional designers, trainers, managers, evaluators, you name it and is scheduled for 11:30am, Thursday November 3.

Please contact me if you are interested.

Becky Reichard
Becky.Reichard@cgu.edu
http://www.cgu.edu/pages/6595.asp

2012 ASTDLA Board of Directors Election

(Past member) — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 01:36:01 GMT

ASTDLA is currently accepting interest from members to join the chapter's Board of Directors. For more information contact preselect@astdla.org

May's chapter meeting (5/19 at the Beverly Garland)

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 23:28:04 GMT

As trainers we focus on our instructional design and training activities but how often do we think about the use and power of our voice?

Join us for an interactive session where you will learn about the 4 types of vocal qualities and how to apply them; relaxation exercises to free the voice; and techniques which quickly elevate presentation performance levels and effectiveness.

Our speaker, Nina Irani, President of UniqueSpeak Consulting has served as the speech and communication coach to Fortune 500 executives, politicians and public figures in the entertainment industry. Nina specializes in integrating cutting edge neurological findings with classic communication techniques to create a hybrid methodology for high performance presentation.

Click here for more information.

Jane Holcomb retires from External Trainers/Consultants SD

Sat, 23 Apr 2011 23:24:17 GMT

After over 20 years of amazing service, Jane Holcomb has chosen to retire from her role as chair of the External Trainers/Consultants Special Division.

Janie Honeycutt will chair the Externals special division starting in July.

We will be honoring Jane for her dedication to ASTD-LA and the training profession at the May Chapter meeting on May 19th.