National Career Development Month

November is National Career Development Month! Be sure to join us for free engagement events, throughout the entire month, where you can virtually network with other career professionals and discuss career-related topics!

November 16^th, 1pm-2pm | Gameful Mentorship - Create Engaging Student-Employer Connections

OCDA is kicking off NCD month with a training as a way for members AND non-members to gain valuable knowledge to benefits clients and students. On Tuesday, November 16th from 1PM - 2PM, we will be completing this 1 CLOCK HOUR CEU ELIGIBLE training virtually via Zoom! 

Gamification is generally defined as the use of game-design elements in non-game concepts. The gameful mentorship program allows mentors to help students learn and apply career competencies and skills while networking with industry professionals. We will look at tools and resources used to create gameful activities with mentors. You’ll leave with ideas for immediate implementation into existing mentoring programs.

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November 17^th, 3:30pm-4:30pm | Coffee Chat Topic: Innovative Ideas for Engaging Clients and Students

OCDA is continuing NCD month with a "Coffee Chat" as a way for members to get to know one another and gain valuable insights. On Wednesday, November 17th from 3:30PM - 4:30PM, we will be meeting virtually via Zoom! 

The topic for our Coffee Chat is "Innovative Ideas For Engaging Clients and Students" The plan for this chat is to meet with other members to share and learn about innovative ideas and implemented programming! Come prepared to talk about any programs your office or organization has completed or any ideas you wish you could try with your populations! This is an informal virtual discussion, where you can share your own experiences and hear from others! 

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November 19^th, 12pm-1pm | "The Great Resignation": Employees Voice

OCDA is continuing NCD month with a training as a way for members AND non-members to gain valuable knowledge to benefit clients and students. On Friday, November 19th from 12PM - 1PM, we will be completing this 1 CLOCK HOUR CEU ELIGIBLE  training virtually via Zoom!

With "The Great Resignation" that occurred back in April 2021, employees across industries have spoken up about how they feel about the traditional ways of working. This mass exodus across sectors have shared insights with employers about how organizations need to take proactive steps in having robust conversations about employees career growth and development within their respective workplaces. Come and join an interactive session where we will discuss how to positively disrupt career development conversations in your own respective workplaces.

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November 22^nd, 4pm-4:30pm | Demo: Connect Clients to Virtual Work Experiences with Forage

OCDA is continuing NCD month with a demonstration as a way for members to gain valuable knowledge to benefit clients and students. On Monday, November 22nd from 4PM - 4:30PM, we will be viewing this demonstration of Forage virtually via Facebook Live!

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November 29^th, 3:30pm-4:30pm | Membership Meet-Up: Virtual Escape Room Experience!

OCDA is concluding NCD month with a Virtual Escape Room experience! Team up with other OCDA members to complete the escape room and gain ideas for how to develop your own escape room with individuals that you serve! This is a fun way to learn a new skill and network with other members. Join us via Zoom on Monday, November 29th from 3:30PM - 4:30PM.

 

Register for one (or all!) of these opportunities at https://www.ocdaonline.org/events. Happy National Career Development Month and we look forward to seeing you there!

2022 OCDA Conference

Planning for the 2022 OCDA Conference is in full swing, and we want to hear from you! Please take a few moments to complete this survey and let us know how you'd like to participate in the conference this year:

Conference Survey

Call for Presentation Proposals:
If you feel you have a topic to contribute, please complete the form HERE by Wednesday, 10/20 to be considered by the NCD Committee as a CEU presenter.

National Career Development Month

National Career Development (NCD) month is around the corner and OCDA is putting together some educational and networking opportunities for our members and we need your help! 

This year, we wanted to reach out to our members to request presentations that would be CEU eligible for our Career Community. Presentations will take place in Zoom during National Career Development Week (11/15-11/19). The theme for the presentations will be, "The Future of Career Development."

If you are selected, we will connect with you to discuss your availability by Friday, 10/29. We look forward to learning from your expertise!

If you have questions, please contact the NCD Chair, Taylor Slocum at tslocum3@cscc.edu.

Want to Get More Involved with OCDA?

One of the best ways to do this is to join a committee! We are building committees to work on functions such as marketing, outreach, event planning, administrative tasks, etc. to promote the purpose and objectives of the Association.

Benefits of joining a committee include:

• Building your resume

• Networking with other career development professionals

• Learn new skills + gain experiences outside your current job role

• Giving back to the career development community!

If you're interested in volunteering to join a committee, please complete the form below and a board member will connect with you to provide more information.

Join an OCDA Committee

Get Social with OCDA!

Facebook - Ohio Career Development Association
LinkedIn Group - Ohio Career Development Association

We want to connect with you, which is why we're on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn! We'll be sharing information about events, resources, and featuring the amazing work of our members! 

Instagram - @The_OCDA

Twitter - @The_OCDA

Working on something exciting that you want to share with other OCDA members on our social media channels? 

We're happy to help! Email Chelsea Francis at cfranci1@cscc.edu with your good news, accomplishments, innovative programs, updates, etc.! 

Career Services Roles

Check out these wonderful opportunities now open in career services. Click on the hyperlinks to learn more about each individual position.

Assistant Director, Career Education/Student Engagement

Baldwin Wallace University

Career Advisor (5 Open Positions)

Kent State University

Career Communication Specialist

Kent State University

Apply for an OCDA Grant!

• Professional Development: Conference registration, certifications, trainings, workshops. 
• Program Support: funding to support any program that helps clients in their career development or job search. 

This is the last week to apply for one of our professional development or program support grants.

It's the final week to submit your application for one of our six Professional Development or Program Support grants! 

We will be awarding up to six grants of $250 to support members in: 

The application is quick to fill out and we encourage all members to apply ASAP. We look forward to supporting your programs and your professional development! 

Applications are due by Sunday, May 16, Learn more/apply at www.ocdaonline.org/grants. 

Interested in Leadership?

Applications are now open for the 2021-2022 President-Elect position. Our new President-Elect will begin their 3-year term on July 1, 2021. To be considered, complete the online application before May 21st- click here for the application.

The President-Elect plans, executes, and organizes the Annual Conference and oversees the Conference Planning Committee. The President-Elect serves as a member of the Board, co-chair of the Finance Committee, and advisor to the President at the Annual Meeting, and performs Presidential duties in the absence of the President.

Register for the 2021 OCDA Conference

We're so excited for the 2021 OCDA Conference: Confidently Committed to Change on June 4th! Don't forget to register, and make sure to check out the website to learn more about our keynote and breakout session speakers. Click here for more information.

Ohio Wesleyan University

Career Catalyst, STEM

Ohio Wesleyan University is currently hiring a part-time Career Catalyst, STEM Liaison. For more information on this role and/or to apply, click here. 

2021 Professional Development & Program Support Grants

We're expanding our funding for micro-grants to help support our members with awards for professional development and program support. Please review the information below if you're interested in applying!

Who is Eligible?  

All current OCDA members are eligible to submit one (1) application.   

 

Application Period 

April 19^th – May 16^th, 2021  

 

Application Description  

The Ohio Career Development Association is offering six (6) grants of up to $250 to support OCDA members and their professional development or program support. The grants are intended for activities related to: 

INDIVIDUAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT GRANT  

• Conference registration or travel 
• Workshop registration or travel 
• Professional training 
• Professional certification(s)

PROGRAM SUPPORT GRANT 
Assistance with programs that support clients in:  

• Developing career readiness skills 
• Exploring career options 
• Securing employment 
• Enhancing their careers  

Proposals will be judged based on planned use of funds and support of the mission of OCDA to promote a greater understanding of the meaning of work and vocation, to foster career development over the life span, and to improve standards of professional service in the field of career guidance and counseling in Ohio.   

Proposals are due by May 16th, 2021. Grant award notifications will be sent no later than May 24th, 2021. 

Apply at www.ocdaonline.org/grants.

Questions? Contact Chelsea Francis, OCDA President at cfranci1@cscc.edu.

Not planning to apply for a grant?

We are looking for two members to help us read + evaluate grant applications!

Grant Reader Eligibility:

• Must be an active OCDA Member
• Must not have applied for an OCDA grant
• Must be available to review/score applications the week of May 17-21, 2021

Interested in volunteering? Email Chelsea Francis, OCDA President at cfranci1@cscc.edu.

President-Elect Applications are Open

Applications are now open for the 2021-2022 President-Elect position. Our new President-Elect will begin their 3-year term on July 1, 2021. To be considered, complete the online application before May 21st.

The President Elect plans, executes, and organizes the Annual Conference and oversees the Conference Planning Committee. The President-Elect serves as a member of the Board, co-chair of the Finance Committee, and advisor to the President at the Annual Meeting, and performs Presidential duties in the absence of the President.

President-Elect Application

President-Elect Applications are Open

Applications are now open for the 2021-2022 President-Elect position. Our new President-Elect will begin their 3-year term on July 1, 2021. To be considered, complete the online application before May 21st.

The President Elect plans, executes, and organizes the Annual Conference and oversees the Conference Planning Committee. The President-Elect serves as a member of the Board, co-chair of the Finance Committee, and advisor to the President at the Annual Meeting, and performs Presidential duties in the absence of the President.

President-Elect Application

OCDA Awards: Last Day to Nominate is Tomorrow!

OCDA is taking nominations for our annual awards until Friday, April 2^nd at midnight. This is a great opportunity to nominate and recognize someone on your team! The award winners receive an award, registration to the OCDA conference, and a $100 honorarium.

There are three award categories:

• Outstanding Graduate Student Award
• Outstanding New Professional Award
• Bob Windle Leadership Award 

You can find the award nomination forms and more info at: https://ocdaonline.org/awards

Save the Date: OCDA 2021 Conference

Award Nominations are Open!

OCDA would like to recognize distinguished professionals in career development! Please read the descriptions below and nominate any or all within your network who apply! Winners will receive a $100 honorarium, a commemorative gift, free registration to and will be recognized at the OCDA Virtual Conference on Friday, June 4, 2021. Deadlines for nominations will be Friday, April 2^nd at 11:59pm.

The Outstanding Graduate Student Award

This award will be presented at the annual Ohio Career Development Association (OCDA) Conference in recognition of the wonderful contributions that graduate students are already making to their respective field.

Nominees must be a full-time student in Ohio, a masters or doctoral candidate, and in the field of career counseling, student affairs, college/student personnel or a related field.

To nominate a professional, please complete this form.

The Outstanding New Professional Award

This award will be presented annually at the Ohio Career Development Association (OCDA) Conference in recognition of an individual with less than five (5) years of full-time experience. This individual serves as a role model to students and professionals, demonstrates creativity/innovation in the field, and has great potential for continued success.

To nominate a professional, please complete this form.

The Bob Windle Leadership Award

This award is presented at the annual Ohio Career Development Association (OCDA) Conference in recognition of a true leader in a career field. The award is named in honor of Bob Windle, who won the award in 2011, for his exceptional contributions to OCDA and to career counseling, exploration, transition, and resilience.

The Bob Windle Leadership Award recognizes practicing career counselors, consultants, or teachers for outstanding performance. Nominees must have at least eight (8) years of service in career development or a related field; demonstrated quality of service (such as innovative programs, recognition by local organizations, publications, awards, etc.); and service to professional association(s) at the local, state and/or national levels.

To nominate a professional, please complete this form.

OCDA: New Logo!

Your votes are in. Thank you to everyone who helped us with choosing our new logo design. We are excited to reveal our new logo:

Meet Our New Board Members

We are excited to be bringing some new faces to our leadership team. Meet our new Professional Development Chair, Katy! Katy is currently a Career Services Advisor at Wright State University Lake Campus, where she helps undergraduate and graduate students as well as alumni find their career path by working with them one on one in advising appointments. With a background in Career Services, she has experience in developing, facilitating, and creating workshops and career fairs for students to ensure their academic and professional success. Additionally, Katy works closely with local employers and builds relationships with business partners so students have access to employment opportunities including full-time employment, internships, and co-ops. Katy received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication and a Master’s Certificate in Marketing from the University of Cincinnati. Katy also received her Master of Science in College Student Affairs with a concentration in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from Nova Southeastern University.

Meet our Membership Engagement Chair, Steve! Steve is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor-Supervisor located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Steve started and gets to lead his own private practice named Restoring Hope Counseling and Coaching. He is also a certified speaker, trainer, and coach with the John Maxwell Team and serves as an Executive Director with them. Steve's current clinical interests are working with men of Christian faith who live with pornography and/or sexual addictions as well as integrating career and mental health counseling into clinical work. He also provides leadership and business coaching services to others who lead a private practice. Lastly, he is working towards his PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at Regent University.

The last day to submit a conference proposal is February 1st. 

The theme for this year's conference is Confidently Committed to Change. While so many of our services had to change to better support our client and/or student populations in today's world, we have found better ways of doing certain things. What have you learned throughout this year? What kinds of things worked so well, that you will continue those practices? Please note that your conference presentation proposal does not have to fit the theme to be submitted! We welcome any and all proposals. 

If you have a conference presentation proposal, please take a few moments to complete this registration form. The deadline for proposal submissions is Monday, February 1st. Presenters will be selected by our Conference Planning Committee and notified by February 22nd.

If you have any questions, please email ohiocda@gmail.com. 

NCDA Career Practitioner Institute

NCDA will be hosting a virtual Career Practitioner Institute (CPI) on February 25th, 2021 from 11am to 4pm. The theme for this year's CPI is "Creative Career Interventions Across Workplace Settings." For more information on the CPI including presentation overviews, cost, and registration, please visit this link.

Call For Proposals

The OCDA Conference will take place on Friday, June 4th, 2021! 

The deadline to submit a proposal is February 1st, 2021. 

The theme for this year's conference is Confidently Committed to Change. While so many of our services had to change to better support our client and/or student populations in today's world, we have found better ways of doing certain things. What have you learned throughout this year? What kinds of things worked so well, that you will continue those practices? Please note that your conference presentation proposal does not have to fit the theme to be submitted! We welcome any and all proposals. 

If you have a conference presentation proposal, please take a few moments to complete this registration form. The deadline for proposal submissions is Monday, February 1st. Presenters will be selected by our Conference Planning Committee and notified by February 22nd.

If you have any questions, please email ohiocda@gmail.com.

The OCDA Conference will take place on Friday, June 4th, 2021! 

The deadline to submit a proposal is February 1st, 2021. 

The theme for this year's conference is Confidently Committed to Change. While so many of our services had to change to better support our client and/or student populations in today's world, we have found better ways of doing certain things. What have you learned throughout this year? What kinds of things worked so well, that you will continue those practices? Please note that your conference presentation proposal does not have to fit the theme to be submitted! We welcome any and all proposals. 

If you have a conference presentation proposal, please take a few moments to complete this registration form. The deadline for proposal submissions is Monday, February 1st. Presenters will be selected by our Conference Planning Committee and notified by February 22nd.

If you have any questions, please email ohiocda@gmail.com.