Washburn University Family & Human Services Department to Host “Workforce Policy Across the Lifespan: Kansas' First Family Impact Seminar” April 16

Topeka, Kan. - The Washburn University Family & Human Services Department invites all those who work with Kansas families to the "Workforce Policy Across the Lifespan: Kansas' First Family Impact Seminar" 10 a.m. - noon, April 16. This conference is free and, while it is focused on those working with Kansas families, it is open to the public.

The "Family Impact Seminar" brings together policymakers, administrators, researchers, community leaders and professionals from across various sectors, and students to explore how workforce experiences intersect with family life across the lifespan. Through research presentations, sensemaking activities, panel conversation and interactive action planning, participants will engage with real-world stories, emerging challenges and opportunities for policy and program innovation.

When: 10 a.m. - noon, April 16, check in opens at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Kansas Room in the Memorial Union, on the Washburn University campus

Register: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/washburnuniversity/2115271

Seminar Schedule

10 a.m. Welcome, Dr. Jessie Piper, Washburn University

10:10 a.m. Opening Plenary, Dr. Carol Johnston, Kansas State University

10:30 a.m. Sensemaking, Jenny Welch Buller, KU-CPPR

10:50 a.m. Panel Discussion, Emma Uridge, Kansas Health Institute

11:15 a.m. World Café Facilitated Discussion

11:50 a.m. Closing, Dr. Jessie Piper

"Kansas families are navigating complex decisions about work, education, caregiving and well-being," said Dr. Jessie Piper, assistant professor for Family & Human Services, Washburn University, and seminar director. "These experiences shape not only individual lives but also the effectiveness of the policies, programs and professionals families rely on for support. Workforce challenges affect families directly and influence the capacity of the systems that serve them."

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of how work, education and caregiving responsibilities interact within families-and how policies, programs and systems can better support Kansans in balancing these roles. Washburn Women's Venture Partners, through the Washburn University Alumni Association & Foundation, funded the grant to cover costs for this seminar.

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