Fall Into Success: USM Professional Development Week

Professional Development Week 2026

September 14–18 · Free to all USM employees · Register now

Pick one session. That's the whole ask. An hour this September on AI tools, change fatigue, time management, or emotional intelligence—something you'll actually use the next morning, not a binder you'll never open.

Events for September 14th:

10:30 am

Opening with Purpose

Start PD Week 2026 by taking a step back from your daily responsibilities and creating space for intentional learning, reflection, and connection. This interactive kickoff session will introduce the conference theme, Fall into Success: Learning, Leading, and Thriving Together, while helping participants identify what they hope to gain from the week ahead. Through guided reflection, small-group conversations, and practical planning activities, attendees will explore their learning goals, consider where they want to focus their energy, and connect with colleagues from across the University System of Maryland. Participants will be introduced to the PD Week Companion Worksheet, a tool designed to support reflection and application throughout the conference. Whether you are attending one session or many, this experience will help you approach the week with purpose, engage more intentionally, and leave with a plan for turning learning into meaningful action.

12:00 pm

At the Table With Erin Moran

Erin Moran
Executive Director of the Dr. Nancy Grasmick Leadership Institute, Towson University

Jennifer D Stano
Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Towson University

Join us for a candid conversation with Erin Moran, Executive Director of the Dr. Nancy Grasmick Leadership Institute, as we explore leadership, growth, workplace culture, and what it means to thrive in times of change. Rather than a formal presentation, this session is designed as an honest and engaging discussion about the realities of work, personal development, and navigating uncertainty with courage and intention. Through stories, reflection, and practical insights, participants will explore topics such as risk-taking, resilience, trust, inclusion, and professional growth at every career stage. Whether you supervise others or simply want to have greater impact in your role, you’ll leave encouraged to think differently about leadership, equipped with ideas you can apply right away, and inspired to take the next step in your own development journey.