When people think about professional development, they often think about learning a new skill, improving a process, or becoming more effective in the role. And that’s absolutely part of it, but some of the most useful insights we gain don’t show up on a resume.
We gain perspective. We learn how others approach challenges. We discover resources we didn’t know existed. Sometimes, it’s the realization that we’re not the only person working through a particular problem. We hone our Everyday Coug Ingenuity.
In a university as large and diverse as WSU, it’s easy to become connected to our work while feeling disconnected from the people doing it. We know the departments, the processes, the systems, and acronyms, but not always the colleagues behind them.
That’s one of the things that makes Elevating Cougs special.
Created for Cougs, by Cougs, the conference brings together employees from across the WSU system to share experiences, practical ideas, and lessons learned. It’s fully virtual, free to attend, and open to all Washington State University employees, making it easy to participate no matter where you are, or what you do. And if you can’t make it to every session on your list, the conference organizers have you covered. Recordings will be available in Percipio after the conference so you can continue learning when it works for you.
While this year’s conference includes plenty of practical and technical sessions, there’s also time to focus on the human side of work. The skills that help us connect, communicate, and thrive, both at work, and beyond.
The following sessions offer just a few examples of how Elevating Cougs supports growth not only as professionals, but as colleagues, teammates, and members of the WSU community. Tip: Use the bookmark icon next to any session in the conference platform to create your personalized conference itinerary.
Beyond the Zoom Call: Practical strategies for real connection at work
We’ve all spent our fair share of time in virtual meetings, but building meaningful relationships takes more than logging in and turning on a camera. Beyond the Zoom Call shares practical ways to build genuine connections and collaborate in a digital environment. You’ll come away with ideas for strengthening professional relationships, even when you’re not in the same room.
🔗 View Session: Beyond the Zoom Call: Practical strategies for real connection at work
Military-Affiliated Awareness: A mini-mastery in connection, support, and allyship
Building stronger workplaces starts with better understanding the people around us. Military-Affiliated Awareness explores the experiences of WSU’s veteran and military-connected community, including the unique perspectives military-affiliated Cougs may bring to the workplace. You’ll also learn about university resources and pick up practical ways to foster belonging, communication, and support.
At its heart, the session is about something simple but important: taking the time to better understand one another and strengthen the sense of community that helps us all thrive.
🔗 View Session: Military-Affiliated Awareness: Connection, support, and awareness
Tough Conversations Toolkit: The conversations you’ve been avoiding
We’ve all had those conversations… the ones you’d rather put off for another day. Whether it’s giving feedback, navigating conflict, or addressing a concern, difficult conversations can be uncomfortable. Tough Conversations Toolkit shares real world ways to handle those moments with confidence, empathy, and respect.
🔗 View Session: Tough Conversations Toolkit: The conversations you’ve been avoiding
Discover what’s waiting for you at Elevating Cougs 2026
Elevating Cougs evolves each year to reflect the real challenges facing WSU employees, but the goal remains the same: creating opportunities to learn from one another.
The skills we develop matter. So do the systems, tools, and processes that help us do our work well. But the connections we build, the conversations we have, and the support we offer one another matter just as much. Because behind every department, process, project, and employee ID is a person. And sometimes, the best thing we can learn is that we’re all figuring it out together.
If you’re interested in learning, sharing, and connecting with fellow Cougs, we hope you’ll explore this year’s sessions and ways to participate throughout the event. You just might walk away with a practical tip, a helpful connection, or a nugget or two of insight. And hopefully, a little fun along the way.