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Professional Development

Calendar of Events

January 21

Stress Reset: Science-Based Strategies for Workplace Wellbeing
8-9 a.m.
Attend in Zoom
Pre-registration required
Stress is a universal human experience, but today’s world amplifies it in unique ways that previous generations did not face. Explore the science of stress with a licensed therapist and gain clarity about why we feel overwhelmed at times, and why certain situations trigger strong reactions. Learn to identify early signs of burnout and explore practical, science-backed strategies to manage stress in the moment. We’ll also cover setting healthy boundaries and developing long-term habits to support lasting well-being.

Trump and Higher Ed: The Latest
Presented by the Chronicle of Higher Education
10-11 a.m.
Attend online
Pre-registration required
The Chronicle’s free webinar series exploring the Trump administration's impact on colleges returns in 2026: Join our experts for three new sessions breaking down the latest developments from Washington and what they mean for your institution. 

Workplace Violence and De-Escalation Technique: Practical Approaches for Real-Life Scenarios
10-11 a.m.
Attend in Zoom
Pre-registration required
Most cases of workplace violence don’t begin with a violent act. Instead, they are the result of a series of aggressive behaviors that build up over time. By learning to recognize warning signs and respond appropriately, you can significantly reduce the risk of a situation becoming dangerous. In this course, participants will learn to identify risk factors and situational triggers, and discuss practical de-escalation techniques with a licensed therapist. Through hands-on practice in realistic scenarios, you’ll build confidence to apply these tools effectively to help keep your workplace safe.

CalSTRS Presents: Consolidation of Benefits
10:30-12 p.m.
Attend in Zoom
Pre-registration required
If you plan to retire under the Defined Benefit Program, the amount of service credit you have at retirement is important for calculating your CalSTRS retirement benefit. Consolidating your Cash Balance Benefit account and your Defined Benefit service credit may help increase the monthly benefit you'll receive when you retire. Find out if consolidating your benefits is right for you and how to complete the consolidation process.

After Reconciliation: Higher Ed Reform and Where Left-Right Collaboration Matters Most
Presented by Inside Higher Ed
11-12 p.m.
Attend online
Pre-registration required
Explore institutional priorities & perspectives on three key areas of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

Designing Seamless Campus Communication in the Age of AI
Presented by Zoom
12-1 p.m.
Attend in Zoom
Pre-registration required
Campus interactions are evolving—often starting with digital self-service and escalating to live support only when it matters most.

January 22

Workplace Boundaries: Strategies and Tools
8-9 a.m.
Attend in Zoom
Pre-registration required
The ability to calmly and respectfully advocate for your needs is an essential skill for modern workforces. Learn practical tools and simple scripts for saying no, asking for help, and managing unrealistic demands. Discuss ways to set clear limits with supervisors, coworkers, and customers, and how to respond when boundaries aren’t respected. Plus, we’ll share strategies to reduce digital overload and stay composed during difficult conversations. 

Creating Engaging Video Supplements for OER Textbooks: A Practical Workflow Using AI Tools
Presented by ASCCC OER
9:30-10:30 a.m.
Attend in Zoom
Pre-registration required
Join Kim Martin (Copper Mountain College), ECE faculty and former distance education coordinator, as she shares her practical workflow for creating video supplements for OER textbooks. In this hands-on session, you’ll learn how to use AI tools like Notebook LM to efficiently produce engaging 5-7 minute educational videos that support student learning.

Preparing Higher Education for the AI Era
Presented by Cengage
11-12 p.m.
Attend in Zoom
Pre-registration required
Artificial intelligence isn’t just on the horizon; it’s here, transforming industries and redefining the skills graduates need to succeed. The question is: how do you empower your students to go beyond understanding AI and truly leverage its potential?

The TeachRock Method: Arts-Integrated Pedagogical Approaches for History, Music and Critical Thinking
Presented by the National Humanities Center
4-5:30 p.m.
Attend online
Pre-registration required
This webinar will introduce educators to the TeachRock Method—a unique approach that empowers teachers to connect music, history, and critical thinking to engage and inspire students of all backgrounds. Participants will explore TeachRock’s strategies for fostering active learning, meaningful discussion, and creativity in the classroom through lessons from two high school curriculum offerings.

January 23

Additional Income Sources for Part-Time Educators
3:30-5 p.m.
Attend in Zoom
Pre-registration required
If you’re a part-time educator and concerned about not having enough retirement savings, consider looking into additional income sources. Explore the importance of saving more for retirement with CalSTRS Pension2®, Social Security and other ways to multiply your earnings power, supplement your CalSTRS retirement benefit and create a more secure financial future.

Recordings