GACE Drive-In Summit: Professional Development (Thursday, December 10, 2026)

Thu, 10 Dec 2026 14:00:00 GMT

The GACE Drive-In Summit is a professional development and networking event designed to support career services professionals through meaningful discussions, interactive learning, and collaboration with industry and higher education leaders. The summit provides participants with opportunities to explore workforce development trends, discuss strategies for addressing professional burnout, and gain insights into building and strengthening employer relationships.

The event features presentations, interactive breakout sessions, and an employer relations panel with representatives from business, government, and higher education. Participants will engage in peer discussions, share best practices, and develop knowledge and strategies that can be applied to their professional roles.

The summit concludes with a closing session, participant survey, and distribution of certificates of completion recognizing participation in this professional development opportunity. Lunch and networking are also included, providing attendees with an opportunity to connect with colleagues and expand their professional networks.

AGENDA

WELCOME

9-9:15 a.m. - Arrival

9:15-9:20 a.m. - Welcome from the GACE President

BREAK OUTS

9:25-10:30 a.m.: Session 1 – Workforce Development Discussion presented by Justin Haight at Metro Chamber, followed by table discussions

10:30-10:45 a.m. – Break

10:45-11:45 a.m. – Session 2 – Burnout Discussion presented by Hallie Crawford at UGA, interactive component

LUNCH & NETWORKING

11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. – Lunch courtesy of Georgia Tech

PANEL ON EMPLOYER RELATIONS

12:45-1:45 p.m. – Employer Relations Panel moderated by Dr. Stephani Womack

Mindy Sharp-Mette (Cobb EMC)
Monique Jenkins (Team Georgia Careers)
Daffany Fajardo Murphy (Enterprise Mobility)
Sherrie Goodman (Kennesaw State University)
Charles Howard (Clayton State University)
La’Keisha Hughes (Georgia State University, Robinson College of Business)

CLOSING

1:45-2 p.m. – Certificate Distribution and Thank you

Georgia Association of Colleges & Employers (GACE) upcoming events

GACE Drive-In Summit: Professional Development (Thursday, December 10, 2026)