North Dakota ATD upcoming events

Professional Development Session: Why Most Networking Fails and How Networking 3.0 Changes the Game (Wednesday, April 15, 2026)

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Why networking fails and how to change the game

Most people have been taught a version of networking that feels transactional, awkward, or forced. As a result, many professionals avoid it entirely, even though strong relationships remain one of the most important drivers of career and business success. This session introduces Networking 3.0, a modern approach that replaces outdated “work the room” tactics with a more authentic and effective mindset. Participants will explore the Net-Offering™ concept, which shifts the focus from extracting value to offering it through curiosity, generosity, and meaningful conversation. Through a short mindset-shift activity and practical examples, attendees will learn how small changes in how they approach conversations can dramatically improve the quality of their professional relationships. The session will also introduce simple tools for starting conversations, building connection, and creating lasting professional trust without the pressure traditionally associated with networking.

After attending this session, you will be able to:

Identify why traditional networking approaches often fail
Describe the mindset shift behind Networking 3.0 and Net-Offering™
Apply practical conversation strategies to build authentic professional relationships

Renee Hensley, Learning and Development Strategist & Author

Renee Hensley is a learning and development strategist, speaker, and author of Networking 3.0: A Stress-Free Approach. With more than 20 years of experience in training, organizational learning, and performance improvement, she helps professionals build stronger connections through her Net-Offering™ mindset. Renee previously led learning strategy at GEHA, where her team earned the 2025 ATD BEST Award for excellence in talent development. Today, she consults with organizations on learning strategy, performance improvement, and the implementation of secure private AI environments that support modern workforce capability.

*This session will be recorded. Paid registrations require a minimum 24-hour notice to be refunded.

Refer A Friend - Help Us Grow Our Learning Community

We love welcoming new colleagues into our chapter. If you refer someone who signs up for a session and they include your name as their referrer, you’ll be entered into a drawing for a complimentary Summit ticket.

Thank you for helping us expand access to meaningful development opportunities.

To find out more, go to our Member Discount Page.

Book Club-Strong Ground by Brene Brown (Thursday, April 16, 2026)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Strong Ground

Our next book is Strong Ground by Brené Brown. We will begin meeting in April and will conclude in May 2026, with virtual meetings held every two weeks to discuss the chapters read.

Everyone is asked to BYOB (Bring Your Own Book). This book can be purchased from Amazon.

The schedule:

4/16/26: Chapters 1-6
4/30/26: Chapters 7-14
5/14/26: Chapters 15-18
5/28/26: Chapters 19-22

Book Club Conversation Catalysts

Brent Johnson, Higher Education Advancement Leader

Brent Johnson is a higher education advancement leader with over 10 years of experience spanning student affairs, conferences and events, and fundraising. In his current work, he focuses on organizational effectiveness through strong systems, thoughtful change management, and staff development. Brent became involved with NDATD while leading a training and facilitation team responsible for onboarding and upskilling team members across services and operations roles. He is especially passionate about helping teams build capacity, navigate change, and align their day‑to‑day work with broader organizational goals.

Leigh Neys, Learning and Development Expert

Leigh Neys, Ed.D., is a learning and development expert with more than 15 years of experience designing and leading impactful training, coaching, and professional development initiatives. She currently serves as a Business Learning Specialist at Farm Credit Services of America, where she develops job-specific training programs, facilitates engaging learning sessions, and partners with leadership to strengthen employee skills and elevate organizational performance. Her diverse background—spanning higher education, community development, and international program leadership—allows her to bring a global, relationship-centered approach to every project. Outside of work, Leigh enjoys spending her spare time with her family at sporting events and traveling.

Vicki Ham, Manager of Team Member Experience and Development for North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

Vicki Ham is Manager of Team Member Experience and Development for North Dakota’s Department of Health and Human Services. She has a long HR-focused career working in manufacturing, financial services, and healthcare before state government. This is year two enjoying the benefits of NDATD membership. She looks forward to book club as reading is a favorite way to learn, find joy, escape and avoid housework.

Teresa King

Talent Development Summit: Future Focus – Future Proof (Thursday, May 14, 2026)

Thu, 14 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Future Focus – Future Proof

Step into the future with ND ATD!
This energizing, highly interactive half‑day experience is designed for talent development and learning professionals who are ready to stretch their thinking, strengthen their impact, and spark what’s possible next.

At Future Focus – Future Proof, you’ll have the opportunity to:

Build new relationships and expand your professional network
Explore ways to elevate your enterprise influence
Discover strategies to prepare the workforce for what’s coming
Future‑proof your own L&D practices

This isn’t a sit‑and‑listen session; it’s a connective, hands‑on experience. Through three rounds of Impact Exchange Circles, a collaborative gallery walk to debrief each topic, and a purpose-driven volunteer activity, you’ll engage with peers in meaningful dialogue and walk away inspired, energized, and equipped with tools you can immediately put into action within your own organization. Be part of something that strengthens our community and your professional impact.

Lunch will be provided.

Not a current ND ATD Member?

Become a member and attend the summit for a great discount! Save $30 on your membership and attend the Summit for the discounted price, saving another $20!

Use the ticket option of "New Member + Summit" to take advantage of this offer!

NOTE: By attending the event, you agree to our Video/Photo Release Disclosure policy.

Professional Development Session: The One Thing You Wish You Knew Sooner (Wednesday, May 20, 2026)

Wed, 20 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

The One Thing You Wish You Knew Sooner

In this session, we'll explore the one thing that can transform the way we live and connect with others: understanding the impact we have on those around us. Whether in personal relationships, work environments, or casual encounters, the effect of our words, actions, and presence is far greater than we often realize. Through reflection, storytelling, and practical insights, this presentation will encourage you to recognize your unique influence and show you how embracing this awareness can lead to deeper connections, better decisions, and a more intentional life.

After attending this session, you will be able to:

Increase Self-Awareness of Personal Impact: Understand the profound influence your words, actions, and presence have on others in various contexts (personal, work, and casual settings), and learn how to recognize these impacts in real-time interactions.

Enhance Communication and Relationship-Building Skills: Develop strategies for using your influence intentionally to foster deeper connections, improve communication, and create more positive and productive interactions with others.

Apply Emotional Intelligence for Better Decision-Making: Learn how to leverage emotional intelligence to make more intentional decisions, both personally and professionally, that lead to stronger relationships and more effective leadership.

Oleg Lougheed, Speaker and Founder of Moments Worth Remembering

Oleg Lougheed is a nationally recognized speaker and the founder of Moments Worth Remembering, who has turned some of his life's hardest moments into lessons and gifts to learn from. Inspired by John Kralik’s, "365 Thank Yous", he transformed a childhood marked by loss and separation into a mission to help others heal and see the good in every experience. Guided by gratitude, Oleg inspires audiences to forgive, connect, and appreciate the people who shape their lives. Whether through a heartfelt note, a genuine conversation, or an act of kindness, he continues to remind others that no matter how hard life gets, there’s always something to be grateful for. His work has been featured on TED, FOX, NBC, ABC, and CBS stations across the country. Learn more about Oleg at https://www.momentsworthremembering.com/ or LinkedIn.

*This session will be recorded. Paid registrations require a minimum 24-hour notice to be refunded.

Refer A Friend - Help Us Grow Our Learning Community

Thank you for helping us expand access to meaningful development opportunities.

To find out more, go to our Member Discount Page.

Professional Development Session: Don't Dodge Conflict ... Embrace it (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Don't Dodge Conflict ... Embrace it

Conflict is inevitable but it doesn’t have to be destructive. This session will equip leaders with a new mindset for viewing conflict as an opportunity for growth. It introduces the LEADD Framework for navigating difficult conversations and reframes conflict as a catalyst for development. When handled effectively, conflict can surface new ideas, challenge assumptions, and strengthen relationships. Embracing this mindset empowers individuals and teams to move beyond discomfort and toward growth and turns everyday challenges into opportunities for stronger communication, better decisions, and lasting impact.

After attending this session, you will be able to:

Attendees will leave with practical strategies to transform conflict into collaboration, stronger relationships, and better outcomes.

Jackie Payne - Director of Leadership and Talent Development at Sagency

Jackie Payne, Director of Leadership and Talent Development at Sagency, partners with organizations to strengthen culture, achieve goals, and drive growth by unlocking the potential of their people. With 25+ years of experience, she brings energy, empathy, and strategic insight, helping leaders identify strengths, seize opportunities, and create meaningful impact. Previously, she served as an Enterprise Client Partner at FranklinCovey and held roles at Augustana University, MIDCO, Wells Fargo, and Concordia College. Jackie is deeply committed to her family, faith, and community, and actively volunteers her time supporting causes that bring purpose and connection to those around her.

*This session will be recorded. Paid registrations require a minimum 24-hour notice to be refunded.

Refer A Friend - Help Us Grow Our Learning Community

Thank you for helping us expand access to meaningful development opportunities.

To find out more, go to our Member Discount Page.