Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), Bureau for Social Services (BSS) marked a milestone with the graduation of its first Leaders Thrive program participants. Thirty-five employees completed this nine-month leadership training, celebrated at the Gaston Caperton Center in Clarksburg.

Leaders Thrive was initiated on April 2, 2024, to enhance leadership skills among BSS staff. The program aims to equip employees with tools to better serve children and families in West Virginia.

"Investing in our employees is investing in the future of our state," stated Kim Ricketts, DoHS Special Consultant to the Secretary for the Bureau for Social Services. "This program empowers our managers with critical leadership tools, enabling them to support their teams more effectively and ensure that West Virginia families receive the best care possible."

The initiative includes a leadership assessment helping participants identify their unique styles and leverage strengths for growth. It also trains managers to navigate workplace dynamics and connect with colleagues of differing priorities.

"Strong leadership is the cornerstone of effective child welfare services," said Cynthia Persily, Ph.D., Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. "By developing our employees’ leadership capabilities, we are enhancing the Department’s ability to provide compassionate, responsive, and innovative support to the children and families of West Virginia. This program is an investment in our workforce and the communities we serve."

Training was provided by Epiphany Consulting, a local company focused on strategic employee development.

DoHS remains dedicated to fostering professional growth within its workforce. Opportunities in child welfare careers can be explored at www.governmentjobs.com/careers/osawv.