Chapter Connections

Lynn has served in various board roles starting back in 2019. She has tirelessly volunteered her time and expertise in multiple programs, various events, and quietly works diligently in the background on chapter business.  Currently serving on the board as Past Chapter President, she skillfully guides the board as they navigate chapter business. 

Lynn perceives ATD-OC as a valuable platform for Learning and Development professionals to enrich their understanding of the field. Her leadership, and expertise ensure that the chapter has access to diverse programs, networking opportunities, and avenues for continuous learning. We are grateful for Lynn and her contributions to the community over the years.  

Kesha facilitated a leadership training for OneOC in Los Angeles, participated in the Leadership Recruitment Process and helped this SIG deliver its workshops. She has been a staple of the chapter despite living in LA. Kesha has also volunteered to serve as on the Board as VP of Membership next year.

Both Kesha and James have been an excellent example of what building a community is all about. Thank you both for volunteering and helping to bring new interest to ATD Orange County. 

Both members since 2025

James Oakley began the commitment to create a Transitioning Special Interest Group as soon as he joined the chapter last year.  In that time he has patiently attended various events while also planning the structure and strategy for the SIG.  He has helped other SIGs by attending their events as well. Together James and Kesha have created a new exciting SIG for ATD Orange County. 

Both Kesha and James have been an excellent example of what building a community is all about. Thank you both for volunteering and helping to bring new interest to ATD Orange County. 

Both members since 2025

Thanks to our host partner Hyundai Motor America for generously providing meeting space for several events throughout the year. The easy location has hosted several important networking and learning events for the professional community of ATD Orange County. 

We look forward to continuing the partnership with meeting space.

Julie Stahl co-led the Total Trainer University Delivering Training and Creating Training programs this year. Her enthusiasm and willingness to take on every task—large or small—in coordinating these foundational workshop series were truly impressive.

From scheduling meeting rooms and speakers to organizing the revision of presentation and participant materials, Julie kept every detail on track, ensuring a high-quality experience for all participants.

Member since 2024

Steven Tran attended Total Trainer University last year and decided to volunteer for the next series.

After graduating from Total Trainer University, Steven Tran joined the TTU team to help prepare for Creating Training. He participated in planning meetings, suggested updates to the website, contacted speakers and revised materials to enhance their design and usability.  He has worked alongside Julie Stahl and Lynn Nissen to continue to provide this important program to our ATD Community.

Steven also went the extra mile, donating participant materials and even sharing Matcha Kit Kats from his trip to Japan with the class. Steven’s teamwork, initiative, and commitment greatly contributed to the success of the program, and lucky for us he has volunteered to continue with Total Trainer next year as a planning team member.

Alisa was instrumental in reviving our Young Professionals SIG. Meeting with prior leadership, creating a strategy, marketing, recruitment and kick off, as well as subsequent events.

Alisa also drew in potential members with her university and outside of ATD-Orange County connections.  Her positive and enthusiastic social media efforts have created a lasting impression and has drawn interest to the young professionals SIG.  She successfully coordinated networking sessions, a panel interview, and continues to volunteer her time and efforts when possible.

The Young Professional SIG also serves our partner chapters ATD-LA, ATD-SD and more. 

Member since 2025

The vision for the Training and Technology Special Interest Group (TTSIG) was born in the aisles of the DevLearn 2024 Expo. While many discuss ideas, Safoura Seddighin is a leader who executes them. She not only embraced the vision outlined that day but translated it into action, coordinating discussions exploring the intersection of training and technology.

The Training and Technology SIG launched the year with leading experts in learning science and then kick-stared our 'Summer of AI' series with a discussion on designing with AI as a collaborative partner.

While she's planning additional sessions addressing AI in L&D, Safoura continues to seek further ways to explore the intersection of technology in training going into 2026!

Member since 2025

At ATD-OC, we often say that leadership is a journey, not a destination. But what does that journey actually look like? We asked our Chapter Leaders to reflect on their tenure and identify the experiences that helped them grow—and how serving on the board prepared them for the workplace. We wanted to hear about their successes, the pivots they had to make, and the lessons that stuck.

Here's what our Chapter President had to share:

One significant success was the networking event that Jodianne facilitated at the beginning of the year. James and I also attended to share the value of ATD National and the chapter. From this one event, several leaders have secured their commitment to volunteering with the chapter. This was an example of how community building starts with connecting, and in small, simple ways.

The Black Friday sale is here, and so is a unique offer to join ATD Orange County.

Through December 5, SAVE 20% on an new annual individual chapter membership or company membership.*

ATD Orange County is home base for SoCal professionals passionate about elevating workplace learning, performance, and impact.

For more than 50 years, ATD-OC has been the go-to community for talent development practitioners of all experience levels. We bring the best of global insights to our local members through hands-on workshops, practical learning experiences, and programs built around ATD’s proven talent development competencies.

When you sign up for ATD-OC, you join:

• A collaborative network that’s deeply committed to helping you grow.
• Events and resources are designed to help you sharpen your skills, apply fresh ideas, and make a real difference in your organization.
• Build a network of L&D professionals to help support your growth.

We’re building the future of learning and development—one where innovation, resilience, and human potential thrive. And we want you to be part of it.

Unlock your growth. Strengthen your impact. Join ATD-OC today.

Your Black Friday offer expires at Midnight on December 5.

 JOIN NOW 

*available for new annual memberships only.