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December 19, 2025

We're excited to share that the APHSA National Human Services Summit returns June 14–17, 2026, in Arlington, VA. Join the nation’s brightest leaders, innovators, and changemakers as we come together to shape the future of human services. Guided by the theme, Leadership for a Stronger Tomorrow, we invite you to submit a proposal by February 13, 2026. Learn more about our Call for Proposals—now open—and be part of the conversation driving impact nationwide.

As we close out 2025, APHSA would like to thank our incredible members, partners, and friends. We are grateful for each of you and your commitment to the work of supporting individuals, families, and communities. May your holiday season be filled with joy and warmth, and may 2026 bring new possibilities. This Week in Washington will take a holiday break in line with the Congressional calendar and return to your inbox on January 9, 2026. We look forward to reconnecting with you in the new year!

Administration

New MOU Signed to Coordinate Job Training and Work Opportunities

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed today by Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins and Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer to enhance pathways to workforce services such as training and employment. The partnership is intended to coordinate resources and strategies that support work opportunities and economic mobility for individuals with low incomes, including participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

HHS Releases Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released its most recent artificial intelligence (AI) strategy, which continues HHS's alignment with the administration’s AI-related executive orders (EOs). The aim of these EOs include reducing administrative burden, ensuring governance and risk management, and advancing the development of AI across the agency. Learn more through our Key Presidential Actions and EOs resource, which provides concise analysis of executive orders issued by this administration, including those related to AI.

APHSA Events & Deadlines

2026 APHSA National Leadership Academy Application is Open

APHSA, in partnership with our Strategic Industry Partner, Augintel, is hosting a webinar designed to help agencies better understand and use unstructured data. The event features the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and Chapin Hall, who will share their work in analyzing case notes to fill data gaps. The discussion will highlight how these insights provide leadership with a clearer, more complete picture of their agency’s implementation and compliance.

January 14, 2026, 3:30-4:30 pm ET

How Do I Engage Virtual Learners? Engagement is More Than Just Connecting Online

Registration for the next webinar in the National Staff Development and Training Association (NSDTA) Showcase series is open. This showcase will examine virtual engagement concepts and available tools that help support learner engagement. Trainers with virtual training experience can share insights, while those newer to this training modality will gain actionable strategies that they can use moving forward in their virtual training journey.

January 21, 2026, 2-3:30 pm ET

2026 APHSA National Leadership Academy Application is Open

The APHSA National Leadership Academy is a space for human services leaders to reflect on, grow, and strengthen their leadership skills for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Take part in a program designed to reshape how you lead your teams and your organization, while also exploring next-generation leadership competencies that drive change centered in people and community.

Application Deadline: January 30, 2026

Apply Today

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