Cheryl M. Naumann, SPHR, NACD.CD

How do leaders align resources with company goals in today’s environment? In CEOWorld, Jay Titus, Vice President and General Manager of Workforce Solutions at University of Phoenix, shares insights on aligning resources to strategy. Key takeaways: - Connect talent and investments to business priorities - Focus on measurable outcomes—not just activity - Build agility as workforce needs evolve His perspective informs workforce optimization: organizations must align learning, skills and strategy to stay competitive. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gGNrJwAu #Leadership #WorkforceStrategy #BusinessStrategy #FutureOfWork

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Irvine Valley College's MESA Program launched the SPARK Summer Academy (STEM Programs Advancing Research & Knowledge) to empower first-generation, low-income students in STEM through early research exposure, skill development, and professional mentorship. Twelve students are participating in collaborative, faculty-mentored research projects or industry-relevant challenges. These students are receiving hands-on experience, stipends, and guidance in presenting research via posters or symposiums. It was an honor to speak to the participants earlier today and share elements of my leadership journey and to learn about their projects. Special thanks to César Montenegro, Ed.D. and Professor Alec Sim for their leadership and vision in developing SPARK! #ivc #irvinevalleycollege #STEM #MESA #studentsuccess #researchinaction

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How can we begin to listen to today's signals to prepare for tomorrow's workforce challenges? In my recent article post, we explored how California's labor market is a leading catalyst for what's happening on a national scale. The attached video summarizes the salient points of that piece nicely. #GoldenState #Workforce #LaborInsights #GrayDI #Pathways #K12 #HigherEducation

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We are growing our business and are promoting people from 'do-ers' to manager. What’s the best way to ensure they’re trained on the right skills for these roles? That was one of the problem statement a business leader asked. The NHRA Executive Hackathon is not only fun but it addresses real issues companies are facing. NHRA | Orange County Affiliate Kevin Shearer, Jason Schmidt, Claire (. https://lnkd.in/geGSF3RX

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Thinking about moving to the Central Valley? Here’s why families and partners choose Fresno Unified School District: • Steady growth in student achievement: ~37% of students met or exceeded English standards, ~27% in math, with several schools posting double-digit gains. • Graduation rates climbing: now over 90%, reflecting strong student support and engagement. • Actionable data for progress: programs like the Trial Urban District Assessment (TUDA) give urban schools and families meaningful insights into student learning. • Opportunities for collaboration: FUSD is investing in programs, partnerships, and resources that make a measurable difference for students. Whether you’re a family considering relocation, an educational partner, or a business looking to invest in the region, Fresno Unified is a district moving forward and delivering real results.

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The Kern County Veterans Chamber of Commerce is excited to share a vital guide for every small business owner and aspiring entrepreneur. This video breaks down the core components of Operational Excellence, offering practical insights to help you optimize your processes, boost efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive sustainable growth. Learn how to identify bottlenecks, improve productivity, and build a resilient business that thrives. Your journey to peak performance starts here! https://lnkd.in/gUdZYhUi #operationalexcellence #smallbusinesstips #entrepreneurship #kerncountybusiness #veteranownedbusiness #processimprovement #businessstrategy #efficiencyboost #customersatisfaction #leadershipdevelopment #kcvcc #businessgrowth

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I'm hosting another Lunch & Learn with the Hawaii Employers Council, focused on the upcoming Finance as a Second Language program. These sessions are built for managers who make smart operational decisions but want more confidence when the conversation turns financial. Not accounting. Not theory. Just practical finance that helps leaders ask better questions, build clearer business cases and connec ttheir work to outcomes executives care about. I'm looking forward to another strong discussion with Hawaii-based leaders who want their managers thinking beyond tasks and into value.

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Latest article I wrote for SBJ. If you’re in biz dev or head of your company’s sales, AI is becoming your next referral partner.

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Education is inherently valuable–it improves one’s understanding and ability to reason, and enables individuals to see a grander version of themselves. But its full promise is realized only when learning connects to real opportunity. At the end of the day, it's still a means to an end. What outcomes do you look for to know a pathway is working?

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Kathi Enderes’ recent analysis reflects how expectations for HR executives have shifted. What was once viewed primarily as an operational function now sits much closer to the center of decision-making. Workforce strategy shapes growth and long-term performance in ways that are far more visible than they were even a decade ago. When expectations expand this quickly, even the most capable CHRO may struggle to translate vision into sustained impact. People strategy is not a short-term initiative. It unfolds across hiring cycles, leadership transitions and moments of disruption. Organizations that recognize this are more likely to see this role not simply as a cultural steward, but as a leader whose influence touches every part of the business. https://lnkd.in/eHzyGtwC #CHROAgenda #WorkforceDevelopment #FutureOfWork

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Amanda Bailey, Interim CHRO at Oregon State University, reminds us that every employee shapes the culture of a campus—not just those in academic or leadership roles. In her conversation with Sarah Palmer on our Impactful Leaders podcast, she shares how HR leaders can influence strategy, resilience, and transformation across higher education. Her perspective underscores a critical truth: interim leaders are not placeholders—they are powerful resources. They bring seasoned expertise, stabilize transitions, and introduce fresh ideas that align people strategies with institutional priorities. Whether guiding cultural transformation or connecting talent strategy to business outcomes, interim leaders ensure momentum continues during pivotal moments. Amanda’s vision for the future of work in higher education highlights adaptability, integrated leadership roles, and cross-functional expertise—all areas where interim leaders can make an immediate impact. 🎧 Listen to her insights: https://lnkd.in/gWx5niX3 Learn more about our interim leadership solution: https://lnkd.in/gsXwWSwU #CHRO #InterimLeadership #ImpactfulLeaderss #HR #HigherEdInnovation #HigherEdPodcasts

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