By Lauri Monetti, Associate Editor

Ten individuals from all over OKDHS recently graduated from the Oklahoma Office of Personnel Management Certified Public Manager Program. The program, which can take anywhere from three to five years to complete, is a comprehensive management-training program for state government employees.

Vanessa Tyce Harris, social services specialist IV and one of the recent graduates, said “Being a CPM candidate gave me the tools to reach across all barriers to success and inspire someone else to succeed. During my role as an FSSD supervisor, I found it rewarding to assist a struggling new employee reach both agency and personal goals.”

In order to participate in the program employees must have three years of service with the state to be eligible to apply along with their supervisor’s permission. Over the years, 156 OKDHS employees have graduated from the program. Along with the time commitment, each candidate pays $100 to cover the cost of tests and projects, and the remainder of the cost of the program, $1,300 per candidate, is paid by OKDHS. Applications for the program are taken during the month of September.

“The opportunity to participate in the CPM program has given me the ability to learn important management skills that are of the upmost importance in mentoring and retaining OKDHS staff. The program also has given me invaluable tools and knowledge that have impacted me as an individual and will enhance my relationships in the community and those working with me for the rest of my life,” said Marsha Gregg, social services specialist IV, about participating in the program.

The CPM graduates are:

• John Bolerjack, social services specialist IV, Oklahoma County 55B;
• Steve Byrom, financial manager/comptroller II, Oklahoma Child Support Services-Finance and Budget;
• Marsha Gregg, social services specialist IV, Washington County;
• Vanessa Harris, social services inspector II, Office of Inspector General;
• Anthony Jackson, child cupport enforcement sttorney V, Oklahoma Child Support Services-Coordinated Programs;
• Anna Moore, programs manager I, Oklahoma Child Support Services-Canadian County District Office;
• Michele Shanklin, social services specialist IV, Canadian County;
• Billy Trask, accountant III, Finance Division-Claims Auditing;
• Stephen White, projects and performance officer-finance, Finance Division-Administration;
• Elizabeth Wilson, assistant director, Child Support Enforcement Division, Oklahoma Child Support Services-Operations