Cheryl Cepelak Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Cheryl Cepelak is a seasoned leadership expert with over three decades of experience in public sector human resources and organizational development. She retired from the State of Connecticut in July 2022 after a distinguished 34-year career, during which she held leadership roles across five state agencies. Notably, she served as Deputy Commissioner of Administration at the Department of Correction for nearly a decade and led a COVID-focused team at the Department of Public Health. Her tenure also included an interim directorship at the Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind, where she engaged directly with the community to enhance services for blind and visually impaired residents. Throughout her career, Cheryl has been deeply committed to professional development and education. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Connecticut in 1986 and a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Quinnipiac University in 2012. Additionally, she has completed Quality Management and Project Management programs at the Rensselaer Institute at Hartford. Cheryl is certified by Career Systems International to facilitate career development, coaching skills, and retention strategy workshops, and she is qualified to administer the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. Cheryl's dedication to public sector human resources is exemplified by her long-standing involvement with the International Public Management Association for Human Resource Professionals (IPMA-HR). A member since 1999, she achieved the Certified Specialist designation in Organizational & Employee Development in 2007 and served as the national president in 2020. Her leadership within IPMA-HR has been instrumental in shaping the organization's direction and supporting the professional growth of its members. In addition to her public sector roles, Cheryl has contributed to the broader community through various initiatives. She has taught numerous classes in leadership, strategic planning, and human resources, instructing for organizations such as the Public Service Human Resources Association (PSHRA) and Connecticut’s Training and Development Network. Cheryl is also a certified yoga instructor, having completed a 200-hour Pranotthan training, and serves as a Duty Officer for the Connecticut/RI Red Cross Chapter. Currently, Cheryl is a sought-after keynote speaker and consultant, specializing in leadership, organizational development, and public sector human resources. She partners with organizations like The Moss Group, conducting nationwide assessments of correctional training academies. Her work continues to influence and inspire leaders across various sectors, reflecting her enduring commitment to public service and professional excellence.