On July 9, 2025, OSHR came together in their monthly staff engagement meeting at the Governor James B. Hunt Jr. Horse Complex at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds. From leadership updates to coworker bingo, these events remain wonderful moments to learn, engage, and support one another while underscoring the importance of public service.
Right as they came in the door, staff members were greeted with a sense of community and had the opportunity to vote on the name of OSHR's new conference room, with "Oak City" quickly proving to be the favorite. Then, the friendly competition of coworker bingo got staff energized, out of their seats, and mingling, giving employees a chance to get to know one another better. OSHR staff learned fun facts, and grew their appreciation for and perspectives on each other's work.
Dr. Margaret Brunson (Organizational Health Advisor) signs off a box on Kristen Dew's (State Training and Development Consultant) coworker bingo card.
After a brief welcome by Chief Deputy Kristen Bierline and Chief of Staff Mary Penny Kelly, staff members from three different work groups within OSHR gave presentations to keep everyone up to date on what's happening around them. Business Operations Director Amy Bowman briefed staff on updated travel policies, Organizational Health Advisor Dr. Margaret Brunson discussed the status of the office's overall strategic planning, and Communications Director Kyle Byrnes detailed his vision for the modernization of OSHR communications, and also unveiled the agency's new logo as part of OSHR's rebrand.
OSHR staff members watch presentations by Dr. Margaret Brunson and Kyle Byrnes.
Left with an updated outlook on OSHR's operations and some coworker bonding and refreshments, staff departed this month's event ready to push forward. Looking ahead, the agency will continue its mission of elevating public service and supporting the governor's efforts to create meaningful opportunity for every North Carolinian to succeed.