The 2025 Symposium opened with Tom Woll, Founder of Strategic Change Initiative, who explored the future of child- and family-serving agencies. He emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships—with clients, funders, and especially staff—and aligning mission, strategy, and culture to foster authentic engagement and retention. Woll’s practical insights offered leaders a clear roadmap for strengthening workplace satisfaction and creating environments where staff feel valued, supported, and inspired to stay.

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​Closing the day, Lisette Burton, Chief Policy & Practice Advisor at the Association of Children’s Residential & Community Services, delivered a timely and strategic briefing on the evolving federal policy landscape shaping child and family service providers. Her session, “Navigating Federal Policy Crossroads: Opportunities and Threats for Child & Family Service Providers,” explored key developments in Medicaid, liability insurance, foster care, and children’s mental health—highlighting both emerging challenges and actionable opportunities. With clear, forward-looking insights, Burton equipped leaders to advocate effectively and adapt with confidence in a shifting policy environment.