Fairfax County Government and NOVA Milestone Graduation

At the end of 2019, Fairfax County Government in conjunction with Northern Virginia Community College, hosted a milestone celebration at the County Government Center comprised of local government employees who graduated with ‘Business Leadership Certificates’ in Business Management Information Technology and/or Business Management Leader Development — and even others who earned their full A.S. in Business Administration. Provost Pamela Hilbert of the Annandale campus  (AN) and Dr. Joann Credle distributed certificates to students alongside Mr. Brian Hill, County Executive and Ms. Robin Baker, Director of Organizational Development and Training at Fairfax County.

The first partnership of its kind, this endeavor allowed local government employees the ability to upskill. The Fairfax County Government configured working schedules for some employees to match NOVA’s course programming offering a ‘Fridays-Only’ format where employees were allowed to take off Fridays to further their education.

This program combines communication and human relations competencies with specialized business courses. It is designed for individuals who are currently, or hope to be, in leadership, human resources, or supervisory managerial positions in the private/not-for-profit sector or governmental organizations. The certificate is especially appropriate for individuals who have a degree related to their field of employment, but who lack training in team leadership or management skills. The program emphasizes practical application of concepts and theories to prepare students for leadership positions.

One such government worker and NOVA student, Dawn Rihaly offered exciting remarks about the program. ‘The Nova Partners Program has been a milestone and turning point in my life because it has helped me develop new skills and the confidence to further my career within Fairfax County. I had been a county employee for 13 years when I received the email about the program. Since I was in a position that offered no advancement, I immediately asked my supervisor if this program was for me. She encouraged me to apply and supported me the entire way.

Since the program offered the convenience of allowing us to take Fridays off to attend class and the affordability with the tuition assistance program, I was able to receive an associate degree. I also received two certificates in career studies of Business Management Information Technology and Business Management Leader Development. Now I have the perfect opportunity to begin my journey to obtain a bachelor’s degree.

Thanks to county leaders and their vision for the importance of educating the workforce, I can move onto a new county position with better pay and further my career. Also, I now have the confidence of knowing I would be great in a supervisory role. Fairfax County is a fantastic place to live and work.’