UCSC Professional Development Workshop

Annual UCSC Professional Development Workshop
Thriving Through Transformation

Thursday, July 16: Virtual
9:00am - 11:30am

Friday, July 17: In-Person
8:30am - 12:00pm
Cooley Center

Don't miss this yearly staff favorite 

Two engaging half-day sessions featuring inspiring speakers, dynamic panel discussions, interactive activities, vendor showcases, and exciting door prizes! There will be a light breakfast on Friday. See FAQ below.
 

Celebrate the UCSC Spotlight Awards 

Join us in person Friday, July 17, as we recognize outstanding staff contributions across UTHealth Houston.

Workshop FAQ

What is the UCSC 2026 Professional Development Workshop?
The workshop is UCSC's annual professional development and staff recognition event. This year's theme is Thriving Through Transformation, with sessions focused on workplace change, work-life coordination, artificial intelligence in the workplace, career development, staff recognition, networking, and campus resources.

Who should attend?
The workshop is intended for classified staff across UTHealth Houston. Staff from clinical, research, academic, administrative, and operational areas are encouraged to attend.

Do I have to attend both days?
No. Attendees may register for the virtual session, the in-person session, or both, depending on availability and supervisor approval.

Is registration required?
Yes. Registration is required so the planning team can manage attendance, catering, room setup, and communications. Staff should register through the official registration link or QR code provided in the announcement.

What will be covered during the virtual workshop?
The virtual workshop will include a keynote session focused on thriving through change, balancing work and life, and practical strategies for navigating a transforming workplace. The virtual workshop will also include a session titled, Thriving with AI in the Workplace. This session includes a practical AI overview and a hands-on Qualified Health activity with role-based scenarios.

Will the virtual session be recorded?
The AI session may be recorded, pending internal confirmation and appropriate attendee communication language. Final recording details will be shared once confirmed.

What will be included during the in-person workshop?
The in-person workshop will include a light breakfast, networking, vendor/resource engagement, the Staff Recognition Spotlight Awards, door prizes, and a Career Development Panel focused on Navigating Growth Through Change.

What time should attendees arrive for the in-person workshop?
Registration, breakfast, networking, and vendor/resource preview begin at 8:00AM. The formal program begins at 8:45AM.

Where is the in-person workshop?
The in-person workshop will be held at the Cooley Center, UTHealth Houston, 7440 Cambridge Street, Houston, Texas 77054.

Will breakfast or lunch be provided?
A light breakfast will be provided during the in-person workshop. Because this is a half-day event ending before noon, lunch will not be provided.

Will parking information be provided?
Parking information will be provided prior to the workshop. However, parking will not be covered or validated for attendees. Attendees are encouraged to carpool when possible or use the UTHealth Houston shuttle to help reduce parking challenges at the Cooley Center.

What are the Staff Recognition Spotlight Awards?
The Spotlight Awards recognize outstanding classified staff who demonstrate teamwork, job knowledge, commitment, enthusiasm, integrity, and service excellence. Award recipients will be recognized during the in-person workshop.

Will vendors or resource partners be available?
Yes. Internal departments and external resource partners will be available during registration, breakfast, networking, and the dedicated vendor/resource engagement period. Attendees are encouraged to visit the tables and learn about available staff resources.

Do I need supervisor approval to attend?
Staff should follow their department's normal process for requesting approval to attend professional development events during work hours.

About UCSC FAQ

How can I become a member of the University Classified Staff Council?
Each year, applications open for classified staff members interested in representing their department or area. Additional information is available on the UCSC website at www.uth.edu/ucsc.

Can managers become council members?
Managers may be eligible to serve if they are classified staff. All staff are welcome to attend UCSC meetings.

How does UCSC share information?
UCSC shares information through meetings, newsletters, Brown Bag sessions, the UCSC website, and university communications.

How can members be active in UCSC?
Members can participate in committees, support events, help share information with their departments, and serve in officer or leadership roles when opportunities are available.

What types of recognition does UCSC support?
UCSC supports staff recognition initiatives, including the Staff Recognition Spotlight Awards, and helps promote opportunities that celebrate employee contributions across the university.