Focusing on the Human Side of Change

Vision

Cal Poly Humboldt will experience lasting transformation in alignment with university goals as a result of expanded inclusion, trust, collaboration, transparency and shared vision as changes occur throughout the campus. 

Purpose

PCCI provides tools and coaching to support the creation, success and sustainability of campus change initiatives, specifically by increasing inclusion and empowerment of all stakeholders as change is implemented. Through this we engage in more collective and aligned change work, improve the perception, acceptance and effectiveness of change initiatives, and create a more positive experience as we move together as one university.

What is People-Centered Change?

Often referred to as change management in the field of organizational development, people-centered change focuses on how individuals experience change. The People-Centered Change Initiative (PCCI) was launched in 2021 by Humboldt’s Office of the President. PCCI is focused on delivering training, coaching and tools to support teams across the campus to substantially improve the success of change initiatives by providing greater focus on the people who are impacted by and responsible for implementing the change. As a result, Humboldt will experience increased capacity, competency and effectiveness related to campus transformation.

The Prosci ADKAR model is the foundation of Humboldt’s PCCI, and is used widely across the CSU system as well as many other institutions of higher education. Tim Creasy, Prosci’s Chief Innovation Officer, emphasizes, “Change happens at two levels: the organizational level and the individual level. We often think about change from an organizational perspective... This is the perspective of projects and initiatives, and it is easier. However, an organizational change ultimately impacts how people do their jobs… Organizational changes alone do not perform - their performance depends on the success of each individual, who must follow new processes, use new tools, or exhibit new behaviors.”

The ADKAR model follows how individuals typically experience change: 

Awareness of the change
Desire to participate in the change
Knowledge about how to engage in the change
Ability to carry out the change
Reinforcement to ensure the change sticks

The PCCI Team

In mid-2021, more than 20 Humboldt employees representing every Division, including a variety of Colleges and Departments, were recruited to serve as the People-Centered Change Team. PCCT members have the full support of their Division leaders, and have actively engaged in the ongoing development of the PCCI. They have been trained in ADKAR basics, and equipped to serve as coaches to support people-centered change within their Divisions. 

PCCI Leadership

Nancy Olson, Learning and Development, Human Resources
Billie Herman, ITS Projects Office
Muranda Kozlowicz, ITS Projects Office

Contact a PCCT Member to learn more about using People-Centered Change practices in your work. : Members by Division