November 2025 Luncheon - In Person Only (NOTE DATE CHANGE to 11/18)
"HR Legal Update," presented by Matthew Bakota, Dinsmore & Shohl LLP.
(NOTE DATE CHANGE to 11/18!)
Schedule:
Session Description: MVHRA’s November HR Legal Update will feature attorneys from Dinsmore & Shohl LLP’s Dayton office. The attorneys include Matt Bakota (employer-side employment law and litigation); Jennifer Brill (employer-side workers’ comp law); Russell Knowles (corporate law); and Emily Snively (employer-side employment law and litigation). A Q&A session will follow a panel-style presentation regarding updates and common issues affecting HR professionals and employers. Matt, Jennifer, and Emily will address latest updates in federal, state, and local laws impacting employers. Russell will address best practices for avoiding common problems that arise when retaining prior owners and employees after the sale or transfer of a business.
Speaker Bios:
Click Here for Matthew's bio.
Click Here for Jennifer's bio.
Click Here for Russell's bio.
Click Here for Emily's bio.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
December 2025 Luncheon - In Person
Holiday Luncheon / Member Appreciation
"Elevating Performance through Targeted Skill Development," presented by Terry Wilson.
Schedule:
We will have a SHRM Foundation silent auction and raffle with all proceeds going to the SHRM Foundation. So bring your cash or check or charge to bid on items!
Session Description:
As the job market fluctuates, employers continue to find it challenging to find candidates with the skills they need to fill their openings. Many employers are looking to fill their needs internally with upskilling and reskilling. But sometimes that's no small undertaking. In this session we'll examine how to meet organizational goals and needs through developing your existing talent.
Speaker Bio:
Terry is a Training & Development Practice Manager at Clark Schaefer Strategic HR with over thirty-five years of HR management experience and over seven years in HR consulting across industries like manufacturing, transportation, and retail. Terry collaborates with business owners and managers on various challenges, including business planning facilitation, compliance investigations, employee engagement, performance management, leadership development, labor relations, and compliance with federal and state laws.
Terry excels in customizing training programs to meet clients’ needs. He has developed and conducted training on topics such as:
He has also instructed clients on handling workplace violence and active shooters and conducted American Red Cross workshops on First Aid, CPR, and AED use. Terry holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Psychology from Purdue University. He has maintained a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) accreditation for over twenty-seven years and also holds a SHRM-Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) accreditation. Additionally, Terry is a certified DiSC facilitator and a certified First Aid/CPR/AED instructor. Terry and his wife, Jan, were born and raised in Anderson, Indiana and attended Madison Heights High School (go Pirates!). They have been married for over 40 years and have two children and two grandchildren. If you have questions for Terry or would like to contact him directly, email him at terryw@strategichr.com.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
January 13 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Carnegie Triangle," presented by Doug Walker
Schedule:
Session Description: The Carnegie Triangle is a communication theory developed by Dale Carnegie, centered on the idea that effective communication and relationship-building require addressing three key elements simultaneously:
- What you say (Content)
- How you say it (Delivery)
- How you make the other person feel (Emotional connection)
The theory emphasizes that to truly influence, persuade, or connect with others, a communicator must not only focus on the message itself but also the tone, body language, and emotional impact on the listener. The "triangle" metaphor illustrates that all three points are interconnected and equally important for successful interpersonal communication.
Speaker Bio: Doug Walker is a strategic storyteller and seasoned operations and strategy leader with deep expertise across the nonprofit, higher education, NGO, and public sectors. Renowned for his ability to bridge vision and execution, Doug excels in strategic planning, project implementation, cost negotiation, and process improvement. He brings a unique blend of emotional intelligence and innovation to enhance productivity, boost team morale, and drive impactful outcomes. With a passion for professional development, Doug is dedicated to helping team members grow their skills and confidence. He is also known for crafting compelling messaging around complex and sensitive issues and for championing the voices of customers, audiences, and constituents to advance organizational success.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
February 10 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Creating a Best Place to Work Habit," presented by Melanie Booher
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: Creating a Best Place to Work Habit often refers to establishing a company culture that fosters a consistently positive employee experience and leads to recognition. This isn't a one-time achievement, but rather a continuous effort, like developing a habit. By taking a proactive, consistent, and employee-focused approach to building a strong company culture, organizations can cultivate the habit of being a "Best Place to Work" and reap the numerous benefits that come with it. Melanie will help Identify what makes a "great workplace" for your specific organization by talking through the model and methodology emphasize building trust, pride, and camaraderie, while ensuring a consistent experience for all employees.
Speaker Bio: Melanie Booher is a culture strategist, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to transforming workplaces through innovative, people-centered solutions. As the founder of MB Consulting Solutions and a partner at PEOPLEfirst Talent & Retention Consulting, Melanie brings a comprehensive approach to organizational culture, human resources, and talent acquisition. She is the best-selling author of multiple books, including Conscious Culture, and the creator of Cards for Culture—a groundbreaking business game designed to help organizations assess and shape their workplace culture in an engaging, actionable way. A recognized leader in the movement to gamify culture, Melanie empowers companies to define where they are today and build a clear path toward where they want to be. She holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources and a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources and Organizational Behavior. Melanie lives just outside Cincinnati, Ohio, with her husband and three children.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
March 10 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Seven Principles to Becoming the Person You Were Meant to Be," presented by Brad Jordan
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: Brad will walk us through the ‘Seven Principles to Becoming the Person You Were Meant to Be’ by sharing strategies to maximize your impact in your professional and personal life including increasing self-awareness, accepting personal responsibility, seeking wise counsel, developing empathy, taking decisive action, persevering through difficulties, and having a positive attitude.
Speaker Bio: For more than two decades, Brad Jordan has been a beacon of knowledge and motivation, conducting presentations and workshops across the United States as an experienced public speaker. Passionate about creating positive change and empowering individuals, Brad has been discussed personal and professional development, 21st-century skills, and career preparation since 2002. His speeches cover such topics as leadership, empathy, self-awareness, perseverance, positive attitude, decisive action, wise counsel, maximizing your impact, emotional intelligence, and personal responsibility. An influencer impacting the lives of numerous individuals with his passion for education and personal development, Jordan is also a devoted husband to Lisa, wife of 23 years, and a loving father to their three children, DeLaney, Julian, and Landon.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
April 14 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Mastering Workplace Politics," with Andi Zavakos
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: As we progress in our careers, one of our strongest desires is to have more influence over what happens at work. You may be an amazing performer, but having technical expertise and a strong work ethic can only take you so far. To influence decision-making in your organization, it is essential that you understand the increasing role that workplace politics play as you ascend the career ladder. EVERY organization is political, and a failure to recognize that and to operate successfully within political environments can make a difference for each of us. In this high-energy, interactive session, you’ll assess your current political skill, explore various workplace politics scenarios, and create an action plan for your future career.
Speaker Bio: Dr. Andrea "Andy" Zavakos is a seasoned human resources executive, educator, and consultant with a diverse career spanning military service, corporate leadership, and higher education. She began her professional journey in the U.S. Navy as an electronics technician and trainer while earning her B.A. in Psychology from Chaminade University in Honolulu. After her honorable discharge, she completed an M.B.A. in Total Quality Management from Dowling College while working full-time in HR at Swingline Staplers in New York. Andy returned to the Dayton region in 1992 and held leadership roles in both small businesses and large corporations before joining the University of Dayton in 2013 as the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources. She holds a Ph.D. from Antioch University and maintains dual certifications as a Global and Senior Professional in Human Resources (GPHR, SPHR) through HRCI. Since 2015, Andy has also served as a professor at the University of Dayton’s School of Business Administration, teaching courses in strategy, organizational behavior, cross-cultural management, and global business. In addition to her academic and administrative work, she runs a boutique HR consulting practice, supporting select clients with strategic and operational HR solutions.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
May 12 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Framework for a Sustainable Mentorship," with Lesli Beavers
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: This presentation dives into the essential elements of establishing and nurturing effective mentoring programs. Designed for professionals looking to enhance employee development and organizational culture, attendees will gain practical insights and strategies to build sustainable mentorship frameworks. Through real-world examples and interactive discussions, this session equips participants with the tools needed to create impactful relationships that drive individual and organizational success. By the end of the presentation, attendees will be empowered to initiate or enhance mentoring initiatives that foster talent retention, professional growth, and a thriving workplace environment.
Speaker Bio: Lesli Beavers is the Associate Director of Leadership Programs at the University of Dayton Center for Leadership, where she leads a team of Assistant Directors responsible for the Center’s flagship certificate programs: Emerging Leader, Supervisory Leadership, and Women Lead. With a passion for leadership development, Lesli is committed to cultivating strong leaders who positively impact their teams, organizations, and communities. Lesli brings over eight years of experience in workforce development and training, with a proven track record of working across industries and technical skill areas. She holds multiple professional certifications, including Everything DiSC Trainer, Korn Ferry 360 Coach, Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt, and HCI Human Capital Strategist (HCS). A graduate of the National Council for Workforce Education’s Workforce Professionals Academy, Lesli also holds a B.A. in Political Science from West Virginia Wesleyan College.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
June 9 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Government Affairs," with Matthew Bakota
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: TBA
Speaker Bio: TBA
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
August 11 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Strengthening Executive Presence for Leadership Success," with Kay Fittes
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: Leaders who master key skills find they move up in their organization more quickly. Plus, their employees have confidence in their leadership; are more apt to remain with the organization; stay motivated and inspired. The good news is that an Executive Presence can be learned. In this interactive program, you will walk away with 3 C’s to develop a commanding presence:
- Credibility Enhancement
- Communication Enhancement
- Composure Enhancement
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
September 8 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Embracing Accountability," with Filomena Nelson
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: Accountability is serious business. Nothing wastes more time and money and creates more frustration than a lack of accountability. It has a direct and observable impact on results and morale. For those reasons, in today’s workplace, the concept of accountability has taken center stage as a vital business concern. When employees take ownership of the success or failure of tasks, projects, or initiatives, then a more productive environment of trust, alignment, communication, and accountability can be created. Work with hands-on tools and relevant, contemporary examples, which will dramatically help you and your team embrace and demonstrate more accountability for expected deliverables.
Speaker Bio: Filomena Nelson is a highly respected business coach, facilitator, and organizational development consultant with over 25 years of experience driving transformative growth for individuals, teams, and organizations. With deep expertise in communication skills and leadership development, Filomena is known for her ability to cultivate strong, adaptive leaders who thrive in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving work environments.
A skilled strategist and trusted advisor, Filomena has partnered with organizations across industries to build high-performing teams, enhance collaboration, and develop leadership pipelines that support long-term success. Her facilitation style is both engaging and results-oriented, grounded in adult learning principles and informed by her academic foundation—a Master of Education (M.Ed.) and postgraduate studies in Instructional System Design.
Whether coaching executives one-on-one or guiding teams through large-scale change initiatives, Filomena brings insight, empathy, and a clear-eyed focus on measurable outcomes. Her passion lies in helping professionals unlock their full potential and equipping organizations with the tools and mindset needed to lead with confidence and resilience.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
October 13 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"From Conflict to Conversation," with Diane Egbers
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: Conflict is inevitable, but effective leaders transform it into opportunities for collaboration and trust. This keynote helps leaders shift from confrontation to connection by providing mindsets and strategies to navigate difficult conversations with confidence and control. Through practical frameworks and real-world examples, attendees will learn to manage emotions, ask purposeful questions, and communicate intentionally—turning workplace tension into trust-building and problem-solving opportunities.
Speaker Bio: Diane Egbers is the founder and CEO of Leadership Excelleration, a consulting firm with over 25 years of experience in helping organizations, teams, and executives improve performance and develop talent. Her firm is known for its customized approach, which includes talent assessment, strategic planning, and implementation, all delivered by a team of experienced servant leaders. In addition to her professional work, Diane is also a recognized community leader. She founded and served as board chair for Grant Us Hope, a nonprofit that has served over half a million students in Ohio by focusing on teen suicide prevention. Her contributions to both business and the community have earned her multiple accolades, including being named a "Most Powerful Leader" by Cincinnati Magazine from 2021 to 2024 and receiving the prestigious Kent Clapp CEO Leadership and Pillar Awards in 2022. She holds a Master's in Executive Human Resources Development from Xavier University and a Bachelor's in Business and Economics from the University of Cincinnati. She is also the author of "The Ascending Leader."
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
November 10 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
Legal Update with Matthew Bakota
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: TBA
Speaker Bio: TBA
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
December 8 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Your Best Year Yet," with Lori Tingle
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in person registration
- 11:30am – 12noon – in person lunch
- 12:00 – Speaker presentation
Session Description: In this transformative session, participants will discover how to prioritize what truly matters in life, enabling them to achieve meaningful success both professionally and personally. By mastering a proven 3-step process, attendees will gain clarity, focus, and a greater sense of peace and balance. Throughout the workshop, they will identify and define their key life Roles, set powerful Annual Goals aligned with their values, and develop actionable Weekly Maps to keep progress on track. Additionally, participants will learn to calculate their unique Productivity Quotient—an insightful metric that measures effectiveness and helps optimize their time and energy. This session equips individuals with practical tools and strategies to create a focused, purpose-driven life where achievement and fulfillment coexist.
Speaker Bio: Lori Tingle is a certified professional coach, dynamic trainer, and founder of the Dimensions of Delight coaching program. Since 2011, she has delivered customized training and coaching to corporations, schools, small businesses, and individuals—helping high achievers find greater balance and fulfillment in work and life. Lori facilitates impactful workshops on productivity and performance, with popular topics including Time Management, Delegation, Burnout, Work-Life Balance, Digital Wellness, and DiSC. She is also certified to lead courses based on The Energy Bus, The Power of Positive Leadership, The Power of a Positive Team, and Do What Matters Most. Through her coaching, Lori empowers professionals who are thriving at work but seeking more joy and connection outside of it. Her signature approach emphasizes mindset, self-care, and positivity to improve overall quality of life and relationships. Lori holds a B.A. in Education from Georgetown College with an emphasis in Chemistry and French. She is a graduate of Coach U, a Certified Professional Coach through the Center for Coaching Certification, and a Certified Women’s Business Enterprise through WBENC.
Credits: This program is being submitted for approval of recertification credits by the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) and for SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC).
Note:
By registering for this event, I authorize and permit MVHRA to use, reproduce, and/or publish photographs that may include me, with or without identification. I understand and agree that photos with me in them may be used in various media without compensation to me. I waive any damages or claims and release MVHRA from any and all liability arising from its use of photos of me.
About Us
The Miami Valley Human Resources Association (formerly the Miami Valley Personnel Association) was organized just prior to the First World War. A number of Dayton Personnel executives met for the purpose of fostering and promoting better methods of maintaining the best possible human relations in industry and commerce. Out of these early experiences so many worthwhile values have evolved that today the Association includes Human Resource professionals from local organizations that comprise a large segment of the business community. All of these industrial and commercial establishments are helped in many ways by their participation in the Association.
The Latest
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November 2025 Luncheon - In Person Only (NOTE DATE CHANGE to 11/18)
"HR Legal Update," presented by Matthew Bakota, Dinsmore & Shohl LLP.
(NOTE DATE CHAN...
-
December 2025 Luncheon - In Person
Holiday Luncheon / Member Appreciation
"Elevating Performance through Targeted Skill Development," pr...
-
January 13 2026 Luncheon - In Person Only
"Carnegie Triangle," presented by Doug Walker
Schedule:
- 11:15 to 11:30am – in p...
Contact Us
Po Box 1321
Dayton, OH 45401
Phone: (440) 899-2242
Email: marketing@mvhra.org
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