Leading Change equips public health professionals with practical tools to navigate change and uncertainty. Participants will engage in applied learning focused on real-world challenges and leave with strategies they can use immediately.
Learning objectives include:
- Examining how individuals and organizations respond to change, including what distinguishes thriving from surviving during both planned and unplanned transitions.
- Exploring how organizational culture influences the success of change efforts.
- Assessing how Kotter’s four change principles can be used as strategic tools in public health settings.
- Applying evidence-informed principles and practices to advance change initiatives.
- Developing a concrete, actionable plan to move an individual change effort forward.
By the end of the workshop, participants will be prepared to lead change with confidence and drive meaningful impact within their organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility and Participation
Who should participate?
The workshop is intended for mid- to senior-level leaders in public health, including both clinical and non-clinical professionals. This includes individuals working in local, regional, state, or territorial health departments, as well as public health partners who are responsible for leading or supporting organizational change.
Is there a limit to the number of participants?
Yes. Participation is capped at 25 participants to ensure a highly interactive and engaging experience. Once capacity is reached, interested individuals may join a waitlist.
Will there be future offering?
Yes. ASTHO plans to offer future cohorts of the Leading Change Workshop. Timing, format, and registration details for future offerings will be shared as they become available. Please make sure to complete an interest form to receive updates.
Joining the Workshop
What is the process for joining the workshop?
Participation in the Leading Change Workshop begins with completing an interest form or registration form. Once registration opens, spots are filled on a first come, first served basis up to the program’s capacity (25 seats). If the workshop reaches capacity, interested individuals may join a waitlist and will be notified if a space becomes available.
Registered participants will receive confirmation and additional details, including key dates, logistics, and pre-work expectations, via email.
Preparation and Pre-Work
Is any pre-work required?
Yes. To ensure a meaningful and applied learning experience, participants are expected to complete initial pre-work prior to the in-person workshop. Pre-work may include:
- Attending a virtual orientation session.
- Complete a brief change-focused questionnaire to ensure the in-person workshop discussions are relevant, targeted, and impactful.
Pre-work is designed to be manageable and directly related to the activities and outcomes of the workshop.
Outcomes and Benefits
What outcomes can participants expect?
By the end of the workshop, participants will:
- Gain confidence to lead the change process regardless of their o-chart status.
- Manage communication to mitigate fear and activate opportunities during change.
- Be part of a group that agrees on the direction of change, develop clear steps.
- Convene as a group to secure agreement on steps to guide the change.
What are the benefits of participating?
Participants benefit from:
- Practical, hands-on tools they can immediately apply in their leadership roles.
- Peer learning and relationship-building with public health leaders from across jurisdictions.
- Increase confidence in leading complex or adaptive change initiatives.
- Dedicated time and space to think strategically about change away from day-to-day demands.
Registration and Fees
Is there a registration fee?
Yes. There is a registration fee for participation. The fee amount, payment deadlines, and payment process will be communicated for each workshop.
When is payment due?
Payment deadlines will be specified during the registration process. Registration may be completed prior to payment, but full payment is required by the stated deadline to secure participation.
How does the waitlist work?
If the workshop reaches capacity, registrants may join a waitlist. If space becomes available, waitlisted individuals will be contacted by email with next steps.
Format and Logistics
Is the workshop in-person or virtual?
The Leading Change Workshop is conducted in person. Some components, such as orientation sessions or follow-up office hours, may be offered virtually.
Where is the workshop held?
Workshops are typically held at ASTHO’s headquarters in Arlington, Virginia. Location details will be confirmed for each cohort.
What is the general schedule?
The workshop typically takes place over two consecutive days and includes a mix of facilitated sessions, peer learning, and hands-on activities. Meals may be provided during select portions of the program.
After the in-person component there will be opportunity for virtual coaching /office hours.
Is there an orientation?
Yes. Participants are expected to attend a virtual orientation prior to the in-person workshop. The orientation may be recorded for those unable to attend live.
Travel and Accommodations
Are travel and lodging included?
No. Participants are responsible for arranging and covering the cost of travel, lodging, and any meals not provided as part of the workshop.
Are hotel recommendations available?
Yes. Information on nearby hotels and booking links for hotels will be shared with registered participants in advance of the workshop.
What airport should participants use?
Participants are encouraged to use the airport closest to the workshop location. For workshops held in Arlington, Virginia, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is recommended due to its proximity.
Certificates
Will I receive a certificate for this course/event, and if so, what are the requirements and timeline for obtaining it?
No. This workshop does not offer certificates at this time. Updates will be shared if this changes.
Financial Assistance
Are scholarships or financial assistance available?
Currently, scholarships or financial assistance are not available. Updates will be shared if this changes.
Contact Information
Who can I contact with additional questions?
For questions about the Leading Change Workshop, please contact the ASTHO Leadership Development team at leadershipdevelopment@astho.org.