Public Knowledge® (PK) will be at the 2026 NCSEA Leadership Symposium in Louisville, Kentucky, where child support leaders will be exploring some of the most pressing challenges facing programs today.

Challenges We’re Helping Agencies Address

Child support agencies are navigating workforce changes, increasing service expectations, and ongoing pressure to do more with limited resources. At the same time, leaders are working to strengthen teams, improve performance, and create programs that can adapt to changing needs. These are the conversations we’re looking forward to at this year’s NCSEA Leadership Symposium. PK partners with agencies to develop staff, strengthen continuous quality improvement (CQI) efforts, and support initiatives that improve both workforce effectiveness and program outcomes.

Learn With PK at These Sessions

Quiet Influence, Powerful Impact: The Art of Thoughtful Leadership in Uncertain Times

Wednesday, August 12 | 10:45 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Presented by Kassie Gram, Connie Chesnik, and Charles Smith

Some of the most effective contributors are not always the loudest voices in the room. This session explores how thoughtful leadership can strengthen teams, encourage innovation, and create space for diverse perspectives.

Strengthening Decision-Making Through Continuous Quality Improvement

Wednesday, August 12 | 10:45 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Presented by Carla West, moderated by Linda Rhyne-McKinley

Child support programs are under increasing pressure to improve outcomes while navigating workforce challenges and evolving service delivery models. Participants will explore how CQI can help agencies use data, stakeholder input, and iterative learning to drive meaningful improvement.

Join the Learning Lab

CQI Bootcamp: Lead, Level Up, and Learn!

Wednesday, August 12 | 3:45–5:00 p.m.

Facilitated by Linda Rhyne-McKinley and Carla West. Jonell Sullivan is helping support this year’s Learning Lab experience as a symposium coordinator.

Continue the CQI conversation in this interactive Learning Lab. Participants will tackle real-world challenges, explore creative solutions, and leave with practical ideas they can use with their teams.

Connect at Our Booth

Kassie Gram, PMP, Prosci

• 20+ years of experience leading organizational change, strategic planning, and transformation efforts across the public sector.
• Brings expertise in stakeholder engagement, change management, and facilitation that helps leaders build alignment and momentum.

Linda Rhyne-McKinley, PMP, Prosci, CSM

• 25+ years of child support experience dedicated to helping agencies strengthen teams, develop leaders, and improve outcomes for families.
• Known for engaging training and coaching that inspires confidence, builds skills, and turns ideas into action.

Lukas Cramer, MPP

• Supports state agencies and human services organizations in identifying solutions for modernization, procurement, and organizational change initiatives.
• Brings 5+ years of experience in policy analysis, project management, stakeholder engagement, and public sector transformation efforts.