IAP2 USA Online Courses

Global Certificate in P2 Courses

IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation – We are very excited to be launching the next evolution of training that builds on our foundational best practices. Our flagship Foundations training program has been updated and now consists of three core courses. Visit our training calendar to register for updated course offerings.

IAP2 USA's Certificate in Public Participation (P2) consists of 3 core courses - Fundamentals of Public Participation, Designing Public Participation, and Applying Methods. Based on IAP2's internationally recognized Global Learning Pathway, this professional development certificate program builds on the foundations of public participation training and best practices from around the globe to provide participants with approximately 30 hours of effective training in public participation and engagement.

Learn More!


Fundamentals of Public Participation

(Prerequisite to other courses)

Who: For all practitioners

This course:

  • Explores IAP2’s best practices and underlying frameworks to create meaningful participation and reflect on one’s own existing practice
  • Centers diversity, equity and inclusion in the practice of engagement
  • Allows participant’s to apply this knowledge to their own public participation practice



Designing Public Participation

Who: For practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of public participation processes

This course:

  • Helps practitioners design an engagement process and plan for a real-world scenario


Applying Methods

Who: For practitioners who are part of a team implementing a public participation process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

This course:

  • Provides opportunities to practice and evaluate methods
  • Demonstrates ways to blend methods into hybrid techniques
  • Shares techniques to craft questions to draw out meaningful input


All Upcoming Courses

  • County of San Diego, Global Certificate in P2, 2026 Cohort 1

    • May 07, 2026
    • July 17, 2026
    • 5 sessions
    • City of San Diego
    Register

    County of San Diego Global Certificate in Public Participation

    **This training is for the COUNTY of San Diego employees ONLY**

    IAP2 USA Licensed Trainer: Cathy Smith 

    2026 Cohort #1, training dates (in-person): 

    • Fundamentals: May 7
    • Designing: June 11-12
    • Methods: July 16-17

    Training and Course Details: 

    IAP2 Certificate Program

    IAP2 USA's Certificate in Public Participation (P2) consists of 3 core courses - Fundamentals of Public Participation, Designing Public Participation, and Applying Methods. Based on IAP2's internationally recognized Global Learning Pathway, this professional development certificate program builds on the foundations of public participation training and best practices from around the globe to provide participants with over 30 hours of effective training in public participation and engagement.

    #1 Fundamentals of Public Participation

    Prerequisite for Designing Public Participation and Applying Methods

    The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

    The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

    #2 Designing & Leading Public Participation

    Designing Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

    #3 Applying Methods for Public Participation 

    Designing Public Participation is a prerequisite for this course

    Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods.

    This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

    The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.
    Show details

  • 2025 North American Conference Rewind | On-Demand Access

    • May 12, 2026
    • June 30, 2026
    • On-Demand
    Register


    The 2025 IAP2 North American Conference Rewind is still available on demand, giving you continued access to some of the most impactful sessions from the conference.

    Whether you missed the live event or want to revisit key conversations and practical takeaways, the Conference Rewind provides a flexible way to engage with timely insights, innovative strategies, and real-world public engagement practices from industry leaders, all on your own schedule.

    Unlocking your access to the Conference Rewind grants you:

    • Full session recordings from the virtual event
    • Presentation materials and additional session resources
    • The ability to revisit sessions anytime at your convenience
    • Continued learning opportunities without travel or scheduling limitations

    This curated collection of conference content is designed to help you apply new ideas and proven approaches directly to your work, whenever it works best for you.

    On-Demand Access

    Purchasing access to the 2025 North American Conference Rewind provides immediate access to the complete library of available session recordings and materials. Whether you are catching up on sessions you missed or revisiting your favorites, you can explore the content at your own pace and return to it whenever needed throughout the access period.

    Payment Policy

    Full payment must be received before access to the Conference Rewind materials is granted.

    Please contact IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and cannot submit payment in advance.

    Access may be delayed or cancelled if payment has not been received and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

    PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires members to log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, discounted registration rates for members will automatically appear. We do not use registration codes for members, except for international members of other IAP2 affiliates.

    Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.



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  • IAP2 USA 2026 CP3 Application

    • May 22, 2026
    • October 04, 2026
    • 2 sessions
    • Online
    Register

    Please submit your $300 non-refundable Application Fee, payable upon submission of application to support@iap2usa.org.

    Applicants must have completed the Global Learning Pathway Certificate Program or Foundations in Public Participation (former Certificate Course) and be members in good standing of IAP2 USA.

    Check out the Professional Certification page for more information. 

    Cohort Application Deadline for Assessment Centers

    • Cohort A:
      • To be eligible for the 2026 Assessment Center scheduled for September 12 - 13, 2026, you must submit your application by May 22, 2026.
    • Cohort B:
      • To be eligible for the 2027 Assessment Center, scheduled for February 9 - 10, 2027, you must submit your application by October 4, 2026.


    Please contact support@iap2usa.org with questions.
    Show details

  • Cascade Chapter Training, In Person, Full Certificate Training

    • June 01, 2026
    • September 02, 2026
    • 5 sessions
    • The Portland Building (Room 210*) 1120 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
    • 0
    Join waitlist

    Join us in person for IAP2’s acclaimed public participation trainings!

    Thanks to your high level of interest, the Cascade Chapter (Oregon and Southwest Washington) is hosting its first in-person trainings in over three years. You can take one course, or all three, but the Fundamentals training is a prerequisite for the other courses. Take all three courses to receive IAP2 USA's Certificate in Public Participation!

    Training dates:

    • June 1 - Fundamentals of Public Participation
    • June 2 & 3 - Designing + Leading Public Participation (Note: Fundamentals is a prerequisite)
    • September 1 & 2 - Applying Methods for Public Participation (Note: Fundamentals is a prerequisite)

      Location: The Portland Building (Room 210*) 1120 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97204 *Members of the public do not need to check in at the front desk and do not need to receive a guest badge to access meeting rooms on the second floor. Simply enter the building and take the stairs up to the second floor or ask the security guard stationed next to the elevators to send you to the second floor via elevator.

      Time: 9am - 4:30pm with approx. an hour lunch break* on your own around noon. *Attendees are welcome to bring their own lunches and eat in common areas on the second floor or leave to visit food carts or other businesses nearby.

      Who should attend

      The courses are suitable for new and emerging public participation practitioners or anyone involved in engagement projects in all levels of government, private industry, utilities, environmental agencies, community organizations, not-for-profit and education providers who would like to understand and deliver engagement in an USA context.

      Upon completion

      Participants will receive a certificate of completion from IAP2 for each course completed. Upon completing the three core courses, participants will receive a Certificate in Public Participation.

      This professional development certificate program is a next step on your journey to becoming a P2 professional and separate from the IAP2 USA’s designations (CP3 & MCP3). It is important to note that participants of the Certificate in Public Participation are not certified P2 professionals. 

      Eligible for ACP-AICP Credits: 

      • Fundamentals: This course is eligible for APA - AICP Continuing Education Credit CM I 8 CM
      • Designing and Leading: This course is eligible for APA - AICP Continuing Education Credit CM I 16 CM
      • Applying Methods: This course is eligible for APA - AICP Continuing Education Credit CM I 16 CM

         — Cancellation and Substitution Policy —

        Trainer: Doug Zenn 

        Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement, awareness, and education efforts around numerous issues including visioning, transportation, water resources, community-based planning and more. Doug led Zenn Associates' development of the innovative “Three-Dimensional Public Participation” model (3DP2) an approach that expands community access to project information and provides unique avenues for community input including the use of new technologies. Doug also serves on the executive committee for IAP2’s Cascade Chapter (Oregon and Southwest Washington) and is a certified trainer for IAP2’s public involvement foundations courses. Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement.

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      • Fundamentals in Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

        • July 07, 2026
        • July 08, 2026
        • 2 sessions
        • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

        Fundamentals of Public Participation

        Understand the principles of meaningful and effective P2 and engagement. Learn how to apply the IAP2 Spectrum and other foundational models to your practice.

        **Prerequisite - Fundamentals must be completed before taking other IAP2 courses**



        Price: $325 ($275 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

        Enroll for the entire IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation and save!

        Want to take one of IAP2's new Electives? Enroll for both Fundamentals and an Elective and save!

        Available Course:

        • July 7-8, 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET

        **NOTE there is a 1-hour break between sessions on each day**

        Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community. The focus is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2/engagement projects.

        Course objectives

        By the end of this course participants will be able to:

        • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
        • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
        • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice
        • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
        • Apply the Profiles of Engagement model and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
        • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
        • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2/engagement situations and practice
        • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

        Professional Certification/Credits

        • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

        Tech Needed for Class

        Cancellation and Refund Policy

        Accessibility Policy

        This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

        Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

        Meet Your Trainer: Cassie Hemphill

        Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in public participation and 15 years designing and delivering training. Her courses emphasize transferable, applied skills participants use to become more effective in their work and personal lives and improve the world around them. Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

        Show details

      • Designing & Leading Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

        • July 07, 2026
        • July 10, 2026
        • 4 sessions
        • Online with Trainer Kimberly Horndeski
        • 8
        Register

        Designing and Leading Public Participation

        **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

        Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

        Course Objectives

        • For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes:
          • Develop a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables
          • Conduct detailed stakeholder analysis, community mapping and equity analysis
          • Identify appropriate roles and levels of influence for key participants
          • Establish clear engagement purpose and objectives and success criteria/measures to suit scenario
          • Identify relevant profiles of engagement
          • Conduct a detailed risk/opportunities assessment
          • Identify key roles for senior leaders and decision makers
        • Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis
        • Embed digital strategies, platforms, tools and methods as part of the plan and process
        • Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario
        • Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan
        • Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan
        • Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

        Payment Policy

        • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
        • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
        • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

        PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

        Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

        Cancellation and Substitution Policy

        All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

        Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

        There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

        IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

        Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

        Meet Your Trainer

        Kimberly Horndeski

        Kimberly Horndeski is a certified mediator, facilitator, and the Executive Director of Community Consulting LLC. Her work focuses on transforming conflict into successful strategies for the future. She has led multiple state, national, and international working groups to overcome challenges and reach agreement. Her projects include bottom-up approaches, such as establishing a coalition with fundamentally conflicting interests to collaboratively negotiate agreement on a $2.5 billion dollar component of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, and top-down approaches, such as assisting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to incorporate nationwide stakeholder values into the decision-making process for federally-listed threatened and endangered species. Kimberly knows it is not information alone that produces positive outcomes or reduces conflict. It is the ability to engage key stakeholders and effectively design, plan, and implement an engagement process that results in creative and lasting solutions for the future. 

        Currently, Kimberly serves on the USA Board of the International Association of Public Participation, the Leadership Council for the Association for Conflict Resolution’s Environment and Public Policy Section, and is a Professor of Practice on collaboration and communication for Virginia Tech University. 

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      • IAP2 USA Annual General Membership Meeting- 2026

        • July 07, 2026
        • 2:00 PM
        • online via Zoom
        Register


        2026 IAP2 USA Annual General Membership Meeting 

        Tuesday, July 7, 2026

        2:00 - 3:00 PM EDT


        IAP2 USA Members register now for IAP2 USA's Annual General Membership Meeting.

        Join us to celebrate the organization’s 2025 accomplishments and check in on upcoming plans and priorities. 

        This year, will offer some fun engagement opportunities for members to connect, share, and learn together. You will also have an opportunity to share creative ideas for the future. 

        Open to members only. Please login to register.

        Preliminary Agenda

        Welcome and call to order, President

        Confirmation of Agenda, President

        Introductions -  Vice President

        Highlights from 2025 - President 

        Treasurer’s Report on 2025 Finances, Treasurer

        Introduction of the 2026 Board with thanks to departing Board members - President

        Plans for 2026 - President

        Member Engagement Activity

        Annual Meeting Adjournment

        Show details

      • Applying Methods in Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

        • July 14, 2026
        • July 17, 2026
        • 4 sessions
        • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

        Applying Methods for Public Participation

        **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

        Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

        The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

        Course objectives

        • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process.
        • Research, design and test a face-to-face and/or online method using a range of tools and resources.
        • Apply the four steps of designing a method, incorporating the eight key components of method design: (1) develop rational and experiential aims; (2) design an appropriate format; (3) design questions and process; (4) develop appropriate communications; (5) combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing; (6) incorporate inclusion and diversity principles; (7) identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures; and (8) identify resources required.
        • Explore a variety of both face-to-face and online methods/ techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g., Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology).
        • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery.
        • Identify principles for monitoring online activity.
        • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist.
        • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing.
        • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences.

        Price: $650 ($550 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

        Dates and Times:

        • July 14-17, 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET

        One-hour break between sessions each day. Must attend all sessions.

        Professional Certification/Credits

        • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

        Technology needed for the course

        Cancellation and Refund Policy

        Accessibility Policy

        This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

        Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

        Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

        Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years.

        Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

        Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

        Show details

      • IAP2 Working with Conflict and High Emotion - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

        • July 22, 2026
        • July 30, 2026
        • 4 sessions
        • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

        IAP2's Working with Conflict and High Emotion

        **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**


        Assess the state of conflict and emotion in your public participation and engagement processes, and create productive and constructive approaches to address them.

         





        Please note: Because this course builds on the core principles and frameworks introduced in Fundamentals of Public Participation and Engagement, completion of that course is required.

        Price: $650

        IAP2 Members: $550 (contact us for the member discount code)

        Dates:

        • July 22-23 & 29-30, 2026

        Class Hours

        All classes meet online from 12:00-2:00 pm ET and 3:00-5:00 pm ET, with a 1-hour break between sessions each day.

        By the end of Working with Conflict and High Emotion, you will be ready to travel on a journey that improves mutual understanding, changes relationships and systems to meet human needs, contributes to building peace and creates lasting change.

        The focus of this Level 3 course is on de-escalating and shifting conflict and high emotion to constructive participation, where forward momentum and resolution are possible. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the state of conflict, and work with practical, tangible approaches to deescalate and transform challenges. Over the course, we will cover tools, strategies and ways of working to resolve polarized and emotional challenges.

        Course objectives

        • Assess the state of conflict and emotion in the P2/engagement process, and create productive and constructive approaches
        • Work with the stages of conflict escalation and apply the concepts of de-escalation
        • Apply a variety of strategies to transform the conflict in P2/engagement
        • Identify the impact of high emotion and apply a range of approaches to deescalate challenges
        • Identify how to reduce conflict in situations of misinformation and duelling facts
        • Apply the principles of storytelling to connect people to each other, increase understanding and reduce conflict
        • Learn from mistakes and understand the role of failure in P2/engagement processes
        • Identify and apply how to model integrity and behaviors that deescalate conflict
        • Apply the strategies and tools to your own project or situation

        ________________________________________________________________________________


        This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

        Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

        Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

        Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years. 

        Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

        Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

        Show details

      • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

        • July 28, 2026
        • July 29, 2026
        • 2 sessions
        • Online with Adrienne Wright
        • 13
        Register

        Fundamentals of Public Participation

        The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

        The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

        Course Objectives

        By the end of this course participants will be able to:

        • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
        • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
        • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
        • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
        • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
        • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
        • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
        • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

        Payment Policy

        • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
        • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
        • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

        PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

        Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

        Cancellation and Substitution Policy

        All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

        Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

        There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

        IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

        Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

        Meet Your Trainer

        Adriene Wright

        Adriene is a seasoned consultant and thought leader with over 20 years of experience in public engagement. She is the founder, President, and CEO of Abelita LLC, a business management consulting firm based in Tallahassee, Florida. Her career spans leadership roles in engineering and construction, marketing and communications, and executive leadership. She has worked in diverse market sectors including energy, transportation, automotive, and higher education, served as a Brookings Congressional Fellow in the U.S. Senate.

        Adriene specializes in designing and leading public engagement initiatives for multinational corporations, government organizations, nonprofits, and higher education institutions. Skilled in understanding community demographics, she excels at engaging marginalized and underserved communities, ensuring diverse perspectives are included in decision-making processes.

        Adriene is an active member of IAP2 USA and served on the International IAP2 Board from 2020 to 2024. In addition to her consulting work, she is a certified life coach, trainer, speaker, and published author.

        Show details

      • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

        • August 04, 2026
        • August 07, 2026
        • 4 sessions
        • Online with Cathy Smith
        • 15
        Register

        Applying Methods for Public Participation

        **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

        Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

        The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

        Course Objectives

        • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
        • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
        • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
        • Develop rational and experiential aims
        • Design an appropriate format
        • Design questions and process
        • Develop appropriate communications
        • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
        • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
        • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
        • Identify resources required
        • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
        • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
        • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
        • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
        • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
        • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

          Payment Policy

          • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
          • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
          • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

          PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

          Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

          Cancellation and Substitution Policy

          All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

          Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

          There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

          IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

          Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

          Meet Your Trainer

          Cathy Smith

          Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.

          Show details

        • Fundamentals in Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

          • August 05, 2026
          • August 06, 2026
          • 2 sessions
          • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

          Fundamentals of Public Participation

          Understand the principles of meaningful and effective P2 and engagement. Learn how to apply the IAP2 Spectrum and other foundational models to your practice.

          **Prerequisite - Fundamentals must be completed before taking other IAP2 courses**



          Price: $325 ($275 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

          Enroll for the entire IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation and save!

          Want to take one of IAP2's new Electives? Enroll for both Fundamentals and an Elective and save!

          Available Course:

          • August 5-6, 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET

          **NOTE there is a 1-hour break between sessions on each day**

          Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community. The focus is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2/engagement projects.

          Course objectives

          By the end of this course participants will be able to:

          • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
          • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
          • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice
          • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
          • Apply the Profiles of Engagement model and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
          • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
          • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2/engagement situations and practice
          • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

          Professional Certification/Credits

          • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

          Tech Needed for Class

          Cancellation and Refund Policy

          Accessibility Policy

          This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

          Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

          Meet Your Trainer: Cassie Hemphill

          Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in public participation and 15 years designing and delivering training. Her courses emphasize transferable, applied skills participants use to become more effective in their work and personal lives and improve the world around them. Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

          Show details

        • Designing and Leading Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

          • August 11, 2026
          • August 14, 2026
          • 4 sessions
          • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

          Designing and Leading Public Participation

          **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

          Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

          Price: $650 ($550 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

          Date:

          • August 11-14, 2026

          Times - must attend both sessions each day:

          • 12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET
          • One-hour break between sessions each day

          Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans.

          This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences.

          Course objectives

          • For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes developing a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables (and much more!)
          • Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis
          • Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario
          • Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan
          • Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan
          • Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

          Professional Certification/Credits

          • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

          Tech needed for the course

          Cancellation and Refund Policy

          Accessibility Policy

          This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

          Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

          Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

          Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years.

          Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

          Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

          Show details

        • Understanding Conflict in Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

          • August 18, 2026
          • 1:00 PM
          • August 19, 2026
          • 5:00 PM
          • Online with Trainer Kimberly Horndeski
          • 18
          Register

          Understanding Conflict in Public Participation

          **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or the previous Foundations Training to take this course**

          The aim of Understanding Conflict in P2/engagement is to help you understand, and more effectively manage, conflict dynamics. The focus of this Level 1 course will be on developing the skills of participants to identify and mitigate situations of tension and conflict within their P2/engagement work.




          Course Objectives:

          • Understand the sources, types and factors that contribute to conflict in P2/engagement and the impact they may have on the process

          • Understand the role of power and influence in engagement practice

          • Understand and identify the cycle of escalation, and the behaviors, attitudes and actions that are evident as conflict increases

          • Contribute to and/or apply strategies to de-escalate challenging situations

          • Identify how to build effective relationships and partnerships through empathy, active listening, respect and trust

          • Learn approaches to work in challenging situations applying behaviors that build trust and credibility

          • Consider the role of integrity and ethics in the conduct of the P2/engagement practitioner, and how that is upheld in the process

            Payment Policy

            • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
            • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
            • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

            PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

            Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

            Cancellation and Substitution Policy

            All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

            Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

            There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

            IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

            Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

            Meet your Trainer: Kimberly Horndeski

            Show details

          • Webinar: Collaboration in Action: Austin’s Equity-Based Preservation Plan

            • August 18, 2026
            • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
            • Online via Zoom
            Register

            IAP2 USA Webinar: Collaboration in Action: Austin’s Equity-Based Preservation Plan

            Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2026 

            Location: Online via Zoom 

            Times Zones:  

            • 1:00-2:00pm EST
            • 12:00-1:00pm CST
            • 11:00-12:00pm MST
            • 10:00-11:00am PST

            Webinar Description:

            The City of Austin’s new Equity-Based Preservation Plan was authored by a 26-member community working group with input from thousands of Austinites. Join City staff to learn about collaborative engagement strategies—and lessons learned—in the Plan’s development and early implementation. The Plan won the Project of the Year and General Project awards from IAP2 USA in 2025. 

            Presenter(s): Cara Bertron, Program Manager II, and Annie Flom, Senior Planner | City of Austin 

            Cara Bertron works to shape more equitable places through community and cultural preservation. She currently manages policy, programs, and outreach for the Historic Preservation Office in Austin, Texas, after facilitating the development of the City’s award-winning Equity-Based Preservation Plan. Cara’s work has been recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions, Preservation Action, Next City, and IAP2. 

            Annie Flom is a senior planner at the City of Austin’s Historic Preservation Office. Originally from Chicago, Annie earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in art history from Wesleyan University and earned her Master of Science degree from UT Austin’s Community and Regional Planning program. Her experience includes project management, community engagement, content creation, and research work, and is currently working to implement the Equity-Based Preservation Plan in her role at the City of Austin. 

            **This is webinar is sponsored by Social Point by Open Point

            Show details

          • IAP2's Facilitating Groups - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

            • August 19, 2026
            • August 20, 2026
            • 2 sessions
            • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

            IAP2's Facilitating Groups

            **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**

            Develop your skills and confidence for facilitating public participation and engagement.

            Please note: Because this course builds on the core principles and frameworks introduced in Fundamentals of Public Participation and Engagement, completion of that course is required.

            Price: $325

            IAP2 Members: $275 (contact us for the member discount code)

            Dates:

            • August 19-20, 2026

            Class Hours

            All classes meet online from 12:00-2:00 pm ET and 3:00-5:00 pm ET, with a 1-hour break between sessions each day.

            The aim of Facilitating Groups is to explore the framework and develop skills and confidence in facilitating P2 and engagement methods. The focus will be about enhancing practitioners’ ability to respond appropriately, generating confidence in and support for your facilitation approach.

            Course objectives

            • Examine the framework and purpose of facilitation in an engagement context
            • Build a repertoire of tools and processes
            • Practice some core skills
            • Troubleshoot specific challenges 
            • Explore the changes needed for facilitation of digital engagement processes

            Please review the following policies before registering for our classes:

            Cancellation and Refund Policy

            Tech Setup and What to Expect

            Accessibility Policy

            This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

            Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

            Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

            Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years. 

            Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

            Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

            Show details

          • County of San Diego, Understanding Conflict

            • August 20, 2026
            • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
            • City of San Diego
            Register

            County of San Diego | Understanding Conflict 

            **This training is for the COUNTY of San Diego employees ONLY**

            IAP2 USA Licensed Trainer: Cathy Smith 

            2026 training dates (in-person): August 20, 2026 

            Training and Course Details: 

            Understanding Conflict in Public Participation

            **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or the previous Foundations Training to take this course**

            The aim of Understanding Conflict in P2/engagement is to help you understand, and more effectively manage, conflict dynamics. The focus of this Level 1 course will be on developing the skills of participants to identify and mitigate situations of tension and conflict within their P2/engagement work.




            Course Objectives:

            • Understand the sources, types and factors that contribute to conflict in P2/engagement and the impact they may have on the process

            • Understand the role of power and influence in engagement practice

            • Understand and identify the cycle of escalation, and the behaviors, attitudes and actions that are evident as conflict increases

            • Contribute to and/or apply strategies to de-escalate challenging situations

            • Identify how to build effective relationships and partnerships through empathy, active listening, respect and trust

            • Learn approaches to work in challenging situations applying behaviors that build trust and credibility

            • Consider the role of integrity and ethics in the conduct of the P2/engagement practitioner, and how that is upheld in the process

              Meet your Trainer: Cathy Smith

              Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.
              Show details

            • Stakeholder "Mapping" -- Identifying and Analyzing Underrepresented Stakeholders

              • August 20, 2026
              • 1:00 PM - 5:30 PM
              • Online Via Zoom
              • 19
              Register

              Stakeholder Mapping

              August 20, 2026 

              1:00 pm - 4:30 pm Eastern

              This course introduces a powerful, transparent process to identify and analyze key stakeholders for any engagement project – a critical step in an ethical and equity-centered engagement design. After understanding the theory and purpose, participants use short cases to practice stakeholder mapping. They learn how to identify and analyze the full spectrum of stakeholders, with special emphasis on underrepresented stakeholders who need additional outreach/support to ensure inclusive engagement. For each case, the group learns how to “clean” and finalize the map, and then discusses implementation challenges and how to overcome them.

              Learning outcomes:

              • Challenge: Design and implement equity-centered engagement processes for increasingly diverse communities 
              • Critical to success: Robust and comprehensive stakeholder identification and analysis (“stakeholder mapping”)
              • Course combines theory, practice, instructions, templates
              • Participants leave ready to conduct thorough, defensible stakeholder mapping that identifies underrepresented stakeholders, and use the results to plan and successfully implement inclusive engagement 

                Outline:

                • Introduction, overview, and grounding
                • Stakeholder mapping 
                  • Framing 
                  • Process + Practice, Case 1 
                  • IAP2 context: Code of Ethics 
                  • Process + Practice, Case 2
                •  Close: Reflections, evaluation 

                Participants receive:

                • Detailed stakeholder mapping instructions 
                • Stakeholder mapping templates and examples 
                • Complete course content and notetaking document
                $200 Members  --  $275 Non Members  --  $125 Student Members. 

                PLEASE NOTE: IAP2 USA members must be logged into iap2usa.org as a member to register at the member rate.

                Members from other IAP2 regions need a code to register which can be obtained from info@iap2usa.org. 

                 — Cancellation and Substitution policy —

                Trainer: Anne Carroll

                Anne Carroll has been a consultant and trainer in public involvement and strategic planning for many years, serving primarily the public sector in both the USA and Canada. She focuses on designing and implementing ethical and equity-centered stakeholder engagement on important public issues, reaching out to and engaging diverse groups of people and perspectives, and tackling complex and multi-stakeholder environments. She served for 16 years as an elected member of the citywide St. Paul, Minnesota Board of Education, and serves as a board or committee member with IAP2 USA and the Minnesota Chapter, and the Minnesota Education Equity Partnership.
                Show details

              • Designing & Leading Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                • August 25, 2026
                • August 28, 2026
                • 4 sessions
                • Online with Trainer Justin Schneider
                • 20
                Register

                Designing and Leading Public Participation

                **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

                Course Objectives

                • For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes:
                  • Develop a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables
                  • Conduct detailed stakeholder analysis, community mapping and equity analysis
                  • Identify appropriate roles and levels of influence for key participants
                  • Establish clear engagement purpose and objectives and success criteria/measures to suit scenario
                  • Identify relevant profiles of engagement
                  • Conduct a detailed risk/opportunities assessment
                  • Identify key roles for senior leaders and decision makers
                • Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis
                • Embed digital strategies, platforms, tools and methods as part of the plan and process
                • Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario
                • Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan
                • Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan
                • Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

                Payment Policy

                • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                Meet Your Trainer

                Justin Schneider

                Justin Schneider has more than 20 years of experience working with communities in the United States and abroad, focusing on p2/engagement, community development, community-based research, and legal work. Justin began his connection with IAP2 in 2018 and now supports the Lonestar Chapter. Currently, Justin is based in Austin, Texas and manages Oak Grove Community Consulting. He also works for Austin Parks and Recreation Department as a community engagement consultant and supports training within the organization. If you work for the City of Austin, please reach out to Justin before registering.

                Show details

              • Fundamentals in Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                • September 01, 2026
                • September 02, 2026
                • 2 sessions
                • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                Fundamentals of Public Participation

                Understand the principles of meaningful and effective P2 and engagement. Learn how to apply the IAP2 Spectrum and other foundational models to your practice.

                **Prerequisite - Fundamentals must be completed before taking other IAP2 courses**



                Price: $325 ($275 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

                Enroll for the entire IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation and save!

                Want to take one of IAP2's new Electives? Enroll for both Fundamentals and an Elective and save!

                Available Course:

                • September 1-2, 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET

                **NOTE there is a 1-hour break between sessions on each day**

                Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community. The focus is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2/engagement projects.

                Course objectives

                By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice
                • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                • Apply the Profiles of Engagement model and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2/engagement situations and practice
                • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                Professional Certification/Credits

                • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

                Tech Needed for Class

                Cancellation and Refund Policy

                Accessibility Policy

                This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                Meet Your Trainer: Cassie Hemphill

                Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in public participation and 15 years designing and delivering training. Her courses emphasize transferable, applied skills participants use to become more effective in their work and personal lives and improve the world around them. Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

                Show details

              • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                • September 01, 2026
                • September 04, 2026
                • 4 sessions
                • Online with Michelle Gutt
                • 21
                Register

                Applying Methods for Public Participation

                **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                Course Objectives

                • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
                • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
                • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
                • Develop rational and experiential aims
                • Design an appropriate format
                • Design questions and process
                • Develop appropriate communications
                • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
                • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
                • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
                • Identify resources required
                • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
                • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
                • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
                • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
                • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
                • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet Your Trainer

                  Michelle Gutt

                  Michelle brings 40 years of experience in public relations and community engagement across government, corporate, and nonprofit sectors to her training. With two decades in municipal government communications and engagement, Michelle has developed a deep understanding of how to build strong, lasting connections between local government and the communities they serve. Michelle began her IAP2 journey in 2012 and became a licensed trainer in 2024. She currently serves as the Community Engagement Manager for the City of Fort Worth, where her team is responsible for planning and implementing all of the community outreach and engagement for the 12th largest city in the U.S. She is also the owner of PRP2 Connections.

                  Show details

                • Applying Methods in Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                  • September 08, 2026
                  • September 11, 2026
                  • 4 sessions
                  • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                  Applying Methods for Public Participation

                  **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                  Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                  The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                  Course objectives

                  • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process.
                  • Research, design and test a face-to-face and/or online method using a range of tools and resources.
                  • Apply the four steps of designing a method, incorporating the eight key components of method design: (1) develop rational and experiential aims; (2) design an appropriate format; (3) design questions and process; (4) develop appropriate communications; (5) combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing; (6) incorporate inclusion and diversity principles; (7) identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures; and (8) identify resources required.
                  • Explore a variety of both face-to-face and online methods/ techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g., Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology).
                  • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery.
                  • Identify principles for monitoring online activity.
                  • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist.
                  • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing.
                  • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences.

                  Price: $650 ($550 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

                  Dates and Times:

                  • September 8-11 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET

                  One-hour break between sessions each day. Must attend all sessions.

                  Professional Certification/Credits

                  • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

                  Technology needed for the course

                  Cancellation and Refund Policy

                  Accessibility Policy

                  This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                  Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                  Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

                  Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years.

                  Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

                  Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

                  Show details

                • Designing and Leading Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                  • September 15, 2026
                  • September 18, 2026
                  • 4 sessions
                  • Online with Trainer Kimberly Horndeski
                  • 21
                  Register

                  Designing and Leading Public Participation

                  **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                  Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

                  Course Objectives

                  • For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes:
                    • Develop a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables
                    • Conduct detailed stakeholder analysis, community mapping and equity analysis
                    • Identify appropriate roles and levels of influence for key participants
                    • Establish clear engagement purpose and objectives and success criteria/measures to suit scenario
                    • Identify relevant profiles of engagement
                    • Conduct a detailed risk/opportunities assessment
                    • Identify key roles for senior leaders and decision makers
                  • Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis
                  • Embed digital strategies, platforms, tools and methods as part of the plan and process
                  • Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario
                  • Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan
                  • Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan
                  • Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet Your Trainer

                  Kimberly Horndeski

                  Kimberly Horndeski is a certified mediator, facilitator, and the Executive Director of Community Consulting LLC. Her work focuses on transforming conflict into successful strategies for the future. She has led multiple state, national, and international working groups to overcome challenges and reach agreement. Her projects include bottom-up approaches, such as establishing a coalition with fundamentally conflicting interests to collaboratively negotiate agreement on a $2.5 billion dollar component of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, and top-down approaches, such as assisting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to incorporate nationwide stakeholder values into the decision-making process for federally-listed threatened and endangered species. Kimberly knows it is not information alone that produces positive outcomes or reduces conflict. It is the ability to engage key stakeholders and effectively design, plan, and implement an engagement process that results in creative and lasting solutions for the future. 

                  Currently, Kimberly serves on the USA Board of the International Association of Public Participation, the Leadership Council for the Association for Conflict Resolution’s Environment and Public Policy Section, and is a Professor of Practice on collaboration and communication for Virginia Tech University. 

                  Show details

                • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                  • September 22, 2026
                  • September 23, 2026
                  • 2 sessions
                  • Online with Cathy Smith
                  • 21
                  Register

                  Fundamentals of Public Participation

                  The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                  The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                  Course Objectives

                  By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                  • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                  • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                  • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                  • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                  • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                  • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                  • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                  • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet Your Trainer

                  Cathy Smith

                  Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.


                  Show details

                • IAP2 Understanding Conflict in Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                  • September 23, 2026
                  • September 24, 2026
                  • 2 sessions
                  • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                  IAP2 Understanding Conflict in Public Participation

                  **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**


                  Understand and develop skills to respond when conflict affects public participation and engagement.

                   






                  Please note: Because this course builds on the core principles and frameworks introduced in Fundamentals of Public Participation and Engagement, completion of that course is required.

                  Price: $325

                  IAP2 Members: $275 (contact us for the member discount code)

                  Dates:

                  • September 23 - 24, 2026

                  Class Hours

                  All classes meet online from 12:00-2:00 pm ET and 3:00-5:00 pm ET, with a 1-hour break between sessions each day.

                  The aim of Understanding Conflict in P2/engagement is to help you understand, and more effectively manage, conflict dynamics. The focus of this Level 1 course will be on developing the skills of participants to identify and mitigate situations of tension and conflict within their P2/engagement work.

                  Course objectives

                  • Understand the sources, types and factors that contribute to conflict in P2/engagement and the impact they may have on the process
                  • Understand the role of power and influence in engagement practice
                  • Understand and identify the cycle of escalation, and the behaviours, attitudes and actions that are evident as conflict increases
                  • Contribute to and/or apply strategies to de-escalate challenging situations
                  • Identify how to build effective relationships and partnerships through empathy, active listening, respect and trust
                  • Learn approaches to work in challenging situations applying behaviours that build trust and credibility
                  • Consider the role of integrity and ethics in the conduct of the P2/engagement practitioner, and how that is upheld in the process

                  Technology needed for the course

                  Cancellation and Refund Policy

                  Accessibility Policy

                  This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                  Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                  Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

                  Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years. 

                  Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

                  Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

                  Show details

                • Designing & Leading Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                  • October 06, 2026
                  • October 09, 2026
                  • 4 sessions
                  • Online with Trainer Justin Schneider
                  • 21
                  Register

                  Designing and Leading Public Participation

                  **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                  Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

                  Course Objectives

                  • For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes:
                    • Develop a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables
                    • Conduct detailed stakeholder analysis, community mapping and equity analysis
                    • Identify appropriate roles and levels of influence for key participants
                    • Establish clear engagement purpose and objectives and success criteria/measures to suit scenario
                    • Identify relevant profiles of engagement
                    • Conduct a detailed risk/opportunities assessment
                    • Identify key roles for senior leaders and decision makers
                  • Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis
                  • Embed digital strategies, platforms, tools and methods as part of the plan and process
                  • Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario
                  • Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan
                  • Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan
                  • Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet Your Trainer

                  Justin Schneider

                  Justin Schneider has more than 20 years of experience working with communities in the United States and abroad, focusing on p2/engagement, community development, community-based research, and legal work. Justin began his connection with IAP2 in 2018 and now supports the Lonestar Chapter. Currently, Justin is based in Austin, Texas and manages Oak Grove Community Consulting. He also works for Austin Parks and Recreation Department as a community engagement consultant and supports training within the organization. If you work for the City of Austin, please reach out to Justin before registering.

                  Show details

                • Fundamentals in Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                  • October 07, 2026
                  • October 08, 2026
                  • 2 sessions
                  • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                  Fundamentals of Public Participation

                  Understand the principles of meaningful and effective P2 and engagement. Learn how to apply the IAP2 Spectrum and other foundational models to your practice.

                  **Prerequisite - Fundamentals must be completed before taking other IAP2 courses**



                  Price: $325 ($275 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

                  Enroll for the entire IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation and save!

                  Want to take one of IAP2's new Electives? Enroll for both Fundamentals and an Elective and save!

                  Available Course:

                  • October 7-8, 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET

                  **NOTE there is a 1-hour break between sessions on each day**

                  Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community. The focus is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2/engagement projects.

                  Course objectives

                  By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                  • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                  • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                  • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice
                  • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                  • Apply the Profiles of Engagement model and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                  • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                  • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2/engagement situations and practice
                  • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                  Professional Certification/Credits

                  • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

                  Tech Needed for Class

                  Cancellation and Refund Policy

                  Accessibility Policy

                  This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                  Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                  Meet Your Trainer: Cassie Hemphill

                  Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in public participation and 15 years designing and delivering training. Her courses emphasize transferable, applied skills participants use to become more effective in their work and personal lives and improve the world around them. Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

                  Show details

                • Designing and Leading Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                  • October 13, 2026
                  • October 16, 2026
                  • 4 sessions
                  • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                  Designing and Leading Public Participation

                  **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                  Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

                  Price: $650 ($550 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

                  Date:

                  • October 13-16, 2026

                  Times - must attend both sessions each day:

                  • 12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET
                  • One-hour break between sessions each day

                  Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans.

                  This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences.

                  Course objectives

                  • For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes developing a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables (and much more!)
                  • Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis
                  • Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario
                  • Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan
                  • Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan
                  • Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

                  Professional Certification/Credits

                  • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

                  Tech needed for the course

                  Cancellation and Refund Policy

                  Accessibility Policy

                  This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                  Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                  Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

                  Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years.

                  Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

                  Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

                  Show details

                • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                  • October 14, 2026
                  • October 15, 2026
                  • 2 sessions
                  • Online with Doug Zenn
                  • 19
                  Register

                  Fundamentals of Public Participation

                  The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                  The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                  Course Objectives

                  By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                  • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                  • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                  • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                  • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                  • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                  • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                  • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                  • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet Your Trainer

                  Doug Zenn

                  Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement, awareness, and education efforts around numerous issues including visioning, transportation, water resources, community-based planning and more. Doug led Zenn Associates' development of the innovative “Three-Dimensional Public Participation” model (3DP2) an approach that expands community access to project information and provides unique avenues for community input including the use of new technologies. Doug also serves on the executive committee for IAP2’s Cascade Chapter (Oregon and Southwest Washington) and is a certified trainer for IAP2’s public involvement foundations courses. Doug Zenn has 30 years of experience in the communications field and has developed and managed community involvement.

                  Show details

                • Facilitating Groups - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                  • October 20, 2026
                  • October 21, 2026
                  • 2 sessions
                  • Online with Trainer Kimberly Horndeski
                  • 20
                  Register

                  Facilitating Groups 

                  new elective course offering to IAP2 **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**

                  Explore the facilitation framework to develop skills and confidence in developing your engagement facilitation approach.

                  The aim of Facilitating Groups is to explore the framework and develop skills and confidence in facilitating P2 and engagement methods. The focus will be about enhancing practitioners’ ability to respond appropriately, generating confidence in and support for your facilitation approach.

                  Course objectives

                  • Examine the framework and purpose of facilitation in an engagement context
                  • Build a repertoire of tools and processes
                  • Practice some core skills
                  • Troubleshoot specific challenges 
                  • Explore the changes needed for facilitation of digital engagement processes

                  Payment Policy

                  • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                  • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                  • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangements have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                  PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                  Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                  Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                  All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                  Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                  There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                  IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                  Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                  Meet your Trainer: Kimberly Horndeski 


                  Show details

                • What We Heard: Reporting on Your Public Engagement Data

                  • October 22, 2026
                  • 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM
                  • Online Via Zoom
                  • 21
                  Register

                  What We Heard: Reporting on Your Public Engagement Data 

                  October 22, 2026 

                  12:00 PM to 3:30 PM Eastern

                  Explore and practice how to analyze, synthesize, and communicate engagement results clearly and credibly. 

                  Learning outcomes:


                    Outline:


                    Participants receive:


                    $200 Members  --  $275 Non Members  --  $125 Student Members. 

                    PLEASE NOTE: IAP2 USA members must be logged into iap2usa.org as a member to register at the member rate.

                    Members from other IAP2 regions need a code to register which can be obtained from info@iap2usa.org. 

                     — Cancellation and Substitution policy —

                    Trainer: Susanna Haas Lyons 

                    Susanna Haas Lyons, M.A., facilitates collaboration for impactful decisions and stronger organizations. She has 20+ years international leadership experience in designing, facilitating, managing, and evaluating complex civic engagement efforts. Bridging online and face-to-face methods, Susanna has helped build alignment on challenging policy topics including land use, energy, healthcare, emergency management, and housing. She also provides training for better conversations between the public and decision makers, as an instructor for Simon Fraser University’s Dialogue and Civic Engagement certificate program, and for agencies across North America. For a decade, Susanna served as a judge for the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Canada's annual Core Values awards that recognize excellence and innovation in public participation. 

                    Show details

                  • When Safety Isn’t Enough | A Neuroscience-Informed Approach to Moving Communities from Self-Protection to Shared Responsibility

                    • October 27, 2026
                    • 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
                    • Online Via Zoom with Rachael Kuroiwa
                    • 21
                    Register

                    Tuesday, October 27, 2026 

                    Time: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm EST


                    When Safety Isn’t Enough | A Neuroscience-Informed Approach to Moving Communities from Self-Protection to Shared Responsibility

                    Course Description and Couse Learning Objectives: 

                    Public participation practitioners already know that connection and psychological safety matter. But when communities face uncertainty, conflict, and change, initial safety is not enough. Under pressure, people often narrow their thinking, protect their identities, harden their stories, and collapse too quickly into defensive positions or premature answers.

                    This course goes deeper than conventional conflict management by exploring why uncertainty affects the brain, body, and behavior of groups — and what facilitators can do in response. Participants will learn practical ways to keep people relational, emotionally steady, and open to the needs of the whole through silence, breath, story, circle practice, emotional naming, and inquiry beneath positions. The course offers a neuroscience-informed framework for helping communities move from self-protection toward shared responsibility, better judgment, and decisions that can serve the common good.

                    We will explore practical facilitation interventions that help groups stay open under pressure, including:

                    - using silence, breath, and pacing to shift the energy of a room;

                    - designing openings that create emotional steadiness before difficult content begins;

                    - helping participants create distance from their thoughts so they are not trapped inside their first reactions;

                    - transforming conclusionary statements into deeper inquiry about needs, values, fears, and hopes;

                    - working with stories and resentments so participants can see one another more fully;

                    - using structured sharing to help people name feelings without turning the meeting into therapy;

                    - creating forms of belonging that make disagreement more bearable;

                    - helping groups stay with uncertainty long enough for more creative and durable options to emerge.

                    Cost: $175 Members  --  $250 Non Members  --  $100 Student Members. 

                    PLEASE NOTE: IAP2 USA members must be logged into iap2usa.org as a member to register at the member rate.

                    Members from other IAP2 regions need a code to register which can be obtained from info@iap2usa.org. 

                     — Cancellation and Substitution policy —

                    Trainer: 

                    Jeffrey L. Stec



                    Show details

                  • County of San Diego, Understanding Conflict

                    • October 29, 2026
                    • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
                    • City of San Diego
                    Register

                    County of San Diego | Understanding Conflict 

                    **This training is for the COUNTY of San Diego employees ONLY**

                    IAP2 USA Licensed Trainer: Cathy Smith 

                    2026 training dates (in-person): October 29, 2026 

                    Training and Course Details: 

                    Understanding Conflict in Public Participation

                    **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or the previous Foundations Training to take this course**

                    The aim of Understanding Conflict in P2/engagement is to help you understand, and more effectively manage, conflict dynamics. The focus of this Level 1 course will be on developing the skills of participants to identify and mitigate situations of tension and conflict within their P2/engagement work.




                    Course Objectives:

                    • Understand the sources, types and factors that contribute to conflict in P2/engagement and the impact they may have on the process

                    • Understand the role of power and influence in engagement practice

                    • Understand and identify the cycle of escalation, and the behaviors, attitudes and actions that are evident as conflict increases

                    • Contribute to and/or apply strategies to de-escalate challenging situations

                    • Identify how to build effective relationships and partnerships through empathy, active listening, respect and trust

                    • Learn approaches to work in challenging situations applying behaviors that build trust and credibility

                    • Consider the role of integrity and ethics in the conduct of the P2/engagement practitioner, and how that is upheld in the process

                      Meet your Trainer: Cathy Smith

                      Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.
                      Show details

                    • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                      • November 03, 2026
                      • November 04, 2026
                      • 2 sessions
                      • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                      Fundamentals of Public Participation

                      Understand the principles of meaningful and effective P2 and engagement. Learn how to apply the IAP2 Spectrum and other foundational models to your practice.

                      **Prerequisite - Fundamentals must be completed before taking other IAP2 courses**



                      Price: $325 ($275 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

                      Enroll for the entire IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation and save!

                      Want to take one of IAP2's new Electives? Enroll for both Fundamentals and an Elective and save!

                      Available Course:

                      • November 3-4, 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET 

                      **NOTE there is a 1-hour break between sessions on each day**

                      Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community. The focus is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2/engagement projects.

                      Course objectives

                      By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                      • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                      • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                      • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice
                      • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                      • Apply the Profiles of Engagement model and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                      • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                      • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2/engagement situations and practice
                      • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                      Professional Certification/Credits

                      • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

                      Tech Needed for Class

                      Cancellation and Refund Policy

                      Accessibility Policy

                      This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                      Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                      Meet Your Trainer: Cassie Hemphill

                      Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in public participation and 15 years designing and delivering training. Her courses emphasize transferable, applied skills participants use to become more effective in their work and personal lives and improve the world around them. Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

                      Show details

                    • Working with Conflict and High Emotion - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                      • November 03, 2026
                      • November 06, 2026
                      • 4 sessions
                      • Online with Kimberly Horndeski
                      • 19
                      Register

                      IAP2's Working with Conflict and High Emotion

                      **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation or IAP2's previous Foundations Training to take this course**


                      The focus of this Level 3 course is on de-escalating and shifting conflict and high emotion to constructive participation, where forward momentum and resolution are possible.

                      Participants will gain a deep understanding of the state of conflict, and work with practical, tangible approaches to deescalate and transform challenges. Over the course, we will cover tools, strategies and ways of working to resolve polarized and emotional challenges.



                      COURSE OBJECTIVES:

                      • Assess the state of conflict and emotion in the
                      • P2/engagement process, and create productive and constructive approaches
                      • Work with the stages of conflict escalation and apply he concepts of de-escalation
                      • Apply a variety of strategies to transform the conflict in P2/engagement
                      • Identify the impact of high emotion and apply a range of approaches to deescalate challenges
                      • Identify how to reduce conflict in situations of misinformation and dueling facts
                      • Apply the principles of storytelling to connect people to each other, increase understanding and reduce conflict
                      • Learn from mistakes and understand the role of failure in P2/engagement processes
                      • Identify and apply how to mo0del integrity and behaviors hat deescalate conflict
                      • Apply the strategies and tools to your own project or situation

                      WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE: Level 2 and 3 practitioners who are:

                      • leading and managing P2/engagement processes with challenges, scope and scale looking for tools and strategies to apply to a polarized, charged P2/engagement environment
                      • Practitioners with experience in P2/engagement processes where there is conflict and/or high emotion

                      By the end of Working with Conflict and High Emotion, you will be ready to travel on a journey that improves mutual understanding, changes relationships and systems to meet human needs, contributes to building peace and creates lasting change.

                       — Cancellation and Substitution policy —

                      Trainer: Kimberly Horndeski

                      Kimberly is a certified mediator, facilitator, and the Executive Director for Community Consulting LLC. Her work focuses on integrating policy and science to engage stakeholders, develop strategic plans, promote collaboration, and transform conflict into successful strategies for the future. She has led multiple state and national working groups to overcome challenges and reach consensus. Her projects include bottom-up approaches, such as working with nonprofits to develop effective strategies to engage elected officials in adopting initiatives, and top-down approaches, such as assisting the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service throughout the nation to incorporate stakeholder values in the decision-making processes for federally-listed threatened and endangered species.

                      Show details

                    • County of San Diego, Global Certificate in P2, 2026 Cohort 2

                      • November 04, 2026
                      • December 11, 2026
                      • 5 sessions
                      • City of San Diego
                      Register

                      County of San Diego Global Certificate in Public Participation

                      **This training is for the COUNTY of San Diego employees ONLY**

                      IAP2 USA Licensed Trainer: Cathy Smith 

                      2026 Cohort #2, training dates (in-person): 

                      • Fundamentals: Nov 4
                      • Designing: Nov 19-20
                      • Methods: Dec 10-11

                      Training and Course Details: 

                      IAP2 Certificate Program

                      IAP2 USA's Certificate in Public Participation (P2) consists of 3 core courses - Fundamentals of Public Participation, Designing Public Participation, and Applying Methods. Based on IAP2's internationally recognized Global Learning Pathway, this professional development certificate program builds on the foundations of public participation training and best practices from around the globe to provide participants with over 30 hours of effective training in public participation and engagement.

                      #1 Fundamentals of Public Participation

                      Prerequisite for Designing Public Participation and Applying Methods

                      The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                      The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                      #2 Designing & Leading Public Participation

                      Designing Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

                      #3 Applying Methods for Public Participation 

                      Designing Public Participation is a prerequisite for this course

                      Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods.

                      This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                      The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.
                      Show details

                    • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                      • November 10, 2026
                      • November 13, 2026
                      • 4 sessions
                      • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                      Applying Methods for Public Participation

                      **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                      Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                      The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                      Course objectives

                      • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process.
                      • Research, design and test a face-to-face and/or online method using a range of tools and resources.
                      • Apply the four steps of designing a method, incorporating the eight key components of method design: (1) develop rational and experiential aims; (2) design an appropriate format; (3) design questions and process; (4) develop appropriate communications; (5) combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing; (6) incorporate inclusion and diversity principles; (7) identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures; and (8) identify resources required.
                      • Explore a variety of both face-to-face and online methods/ techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g., Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology).
                      • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery.
                      • Identify principles for monitoring online activity.
                      • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist.
                      • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing.
                      • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences.

                      Price: $650 ($550 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

                      Dates and Times:

                      • November 10-13, 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET

                      One-hour break between sessions each day. Must attend all sessions.

                      Professional Certification/Credits

                      • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

                      Technology needed for the course

                      Cancellation and Refund Policy

                      Accessibility Policy

                      This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                      Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                      Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

                      Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years.

                      Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

                      Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

                      Show details

                    • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                      • November 12, 2026
                      • November 13, 2026
                      • 2 sessions
                      • Online with Cathy Smith
                      • 20
                      Register

                      Fundamentals of Public Participation

                      The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                      The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                      Course Objectives

                      By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                      • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                      • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                      • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                      • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                      • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                      • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                      • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                      • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                      Payment Policy

                      • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                      • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                      • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                      PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                      Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                      Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                      All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                      Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                      There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                      IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                      Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                      Meet Your Trainer

                      Cathy Smith

                      Cathy’s work in the inter-related fields associated with climate change—land use, transportation, water, energy, health—brings depth of knowledge and understanding of current engagement needs. As a past community mediator and practicing writer and storyteller, her engagement insights span from conflict management to communications. She’s one of 15 Certified Public Participation Practitioners in the country, a graduate of USD’s School of Law, and IAP2USA’s Past President.


                      Show details

                    • Seattle, WA – In Person: IAP2 USA Certificate in Public Participation

                      • November 16, 2026
                      • November 20, 2026
                      • 5 sessions
                      • Seattle, WA (venue details coming soon)

                      Seattle, WA – In Person: IAP2 USA Certificate in Public Participation

                      When: November 16–20

                      Earn your IAP2 USA Certificate in Public Participation in one immersive, five-day, in-person training experience.

                      • Fundamentals: November 16 (1 day)
                      • Designing Engagement: November 17–18 (2 days)
                      • Applying Methods: November 19–20 (2 days)

                      Time: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm daily

                      Location: Seattle, WA (venue details coming soon)

                      Format: In-person, interactive training

                      **Refreshments provided

                      About the Program

                      Based on IAP2's internationally recognized Global Learning Pathway, this program provides approximately 35 hours of practical, skills-based training in public participation and community engagement.

                      The Certificate builds knowledge and skill progressively across three essential courses—Fundamentals, Designing Engagement, and Applying Methods—equipping practitioners to design and deliver meaningful, effective engagement processes.

                      Three Essential Courses

                      1. Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2)/Engagement

                      Fundamentals—required as the first course on IAP2’s Global Learning Pathway—establishes the shared foundation for effective public participation practice.

                      It builds a common language and understanding of the principles, values, and frameworks that guide engagement across the IAP2 community—clarifying what meaningful participation looks like and why it matters.

                      Participants explore:

                      • IAP2’s Core Values, Code of Ethics, and Spectrum of Public Participation

                      • The role of engagement in decision-making

                      • Characteristics of credible and transparent processes

                      • How foundational concepts apply in real-world engagement contexts

                      Fundamentals prepares practitioners to move from good intentions to intentional practice.

                      2. Designing Public Participation & Engagement

                      Designing builds on Fundamentals and focuses on the Design and Plan phases of IAP2’s Practice Framework.

                      It strengthens practitioners’ ability to clarify purpose, influence, and participation before methods are selected or processes begin.

                      Participants develop an engagement plan for a real-world project while exploring:

                      • Engagement scoping

                      • Identifying participants and communities

                      • Setting clear purpose and objectives

                      • Selecting appropriate Spectrum levels

                      • Analyzing and responding to risks

                      Equity, inclusion, and the needs of diverse audiences are integrated throughout the course.

                      3. Applying Methods for Engagement

                      Applying Methods focuses on the Plan phase of IAP2’s Practice Framework, where practitioners select, develop, combine, and evaluate engagement methods.

                      The emphasis is on hands-on practice—exploring and trying out elements of methods to understand how they work in real settings.

                      Participants:

                      • Use the Methods Matrix to identify methods that fit engagement objectives and participant needs

                      • Identify and evaluate method objectives

                      • Develop effective questions to guide participant input

                      • Combine and sequence methods

                      • Assess whether selected approaches will meet engagement objectives

                      Participants leave with practical tools and strategies they can apply immediately.

                      Why Attend in Person?

                      This five-day, in-person experience provides space to step away from daily demands and engage fully in your learning.

                      Participants will:

                      • Experience firsthand how physical space influences engagement dynamics

                      • Learn from spontaneous dialogue and informal peer exchange

                      • Strengthen their professional network through sustained, face-to-face connection

                      Registration Options

                      Cassie Hemphill, Ph.D.
                      IAP2 Licensed Trainer

                      Cassie Hemphill brings 30 years of experience helping people design and lead meaningful public engagement—especially when issues are complex and the stakes are high. She works with practitioners in the U.S. and beyond to build practical skills for navigating diverse perspectives and difficult conversations, helping professionals turn challenging moments into opportunities for clarity and progress. Her work in training and facilitation draws on adult learning principles, conflict resolution practice, and a commitment to staying engaged when conversations get uncomfortable.

                      Cassie serves as a Mentor and Assessor for IAP2’s International Trainer Licensing Programme and the international team updating IAP2’s Global Certificate courses. She is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Professional (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF). Her academic research examined how agencies and communities working together can produce better outcomes than either could alone—and how that collaboration depends on honoring both technical expertise and lived experience.

                      Show details

                    • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                      • November 17, 2026
                      • November 20, 2026
                      • 4 sessions
                      • Online with Justin Schneider
                      • 20
                      Register

                      Applying Methods for Public Participation

                      **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                      Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                      The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                      Course Objectives

                      • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
                      • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
                      • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
                      • Develop rational and experiential aims
                      • Design an appropriate format
                      • Design questions and process
                      • Develop appropriate communications
                      • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
                      • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
                      • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
                      • Identify resources required
                      • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
                      • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
                      • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
                      • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
                      • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
                      • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

                        Payment Policy

                        • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                        • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                        • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                        PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                        Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                        Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                        All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                        Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                        There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                        IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                        Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                        Meet Your Trainer

                        Justin Schneider

                        Justin Schneider has more than 20 years of experience working with communities in the United States and abroad, focusing on p2/engagement, community development, community-based research, and legal work. Justin began his connection with IAP2 in 2018 and now supports the Lonestar Chapter. Currently, Justin is based in Austin, Texas and manages Oak Grove Community Consulting. He also works for Austin Parks and Recreation Department as a community engagement consultant and supports training within the organization. If you work for the City of Austin, please reach out to Justin before registering.

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                      • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                        • December 02, 2026
                        • December 03, 2026
                        • 2 sessions
                        • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                        Fundamentals of Public Participation

                        Understand the principles of meaningful and effective P2 and engagement. Learn how to apply the IAP2 Spectrum and other foundational models to your practice.

                        **Prerequisite - Fundamentals must be completed before taking other IAP2 courses**



                        Price: $325 ($275 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

                        Enroll for the entire IAP2 Certificate in Public Participation and save!

                        Want to take one of IAP2's new Electives? Enroll for both Fundamentals and an Elective and save!

                        Available Course:

                        • December 2-3, 2026  12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET

                        **NOTE there is a 1-hour break between sessions on each day**

                        Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community. The focus is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2/engagement projects.

                        Course objectives

                        By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                        • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                        • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                        • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice
                        • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                        • Apply the Profiles of Engagement model and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                        • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                        • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2/engagement situations and practice
                        • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                        Professional Certification/Credits

                        • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

                        Tech Needed for Class

                        Cancellation and Refund Policy

                        Accessibility Policy

                        This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                        Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                        Meet Your Trainer: Cassie Hemphill

                        Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in public participation and 15 years designing and delivering training. Her courses emphasize transferable, applied skills participants use to become more effective in their work and personal lives and improve the world around them. Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

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                      • Designing and Leading Public Participation - Hosted by Cassie Hemphill

                        • December 08, 2026
                        • December 11, 2026
                        • 4 sessions
                        • Online with Trainer Cassie Hemphill

                        Designing and Leading Public Participation

                        **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                        Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans. This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences. The course is suitable for practitioners who are leading the planning and implementation of P2 processes.

                        Price: $650 ($550 for IAP2 members - contact us for the discount code)

                        Date:

                        • December 8-11, 2026

                        Times - must attend both sessions each day:

                        • 12:00 noon-2:00 pm + 3:00-5:00 pm ET
                        • One-hour break between sessions each day

                        Designing & Leading Public Participation (P2) introduces practitioners to the design and plan phases of the practice framework, providing them with the opportunity to develop P2 plans.

                        This includes scoping, community mapping, determining purpose and objectives and levels of influence, choosing appropriate methods and managing resources, while considering the needs of diverse audiences.

                        Course objectives

                        • For a real-world scenario, design an engagement process and plan that includes developing a clear scope of the work, problem or opportunity with identified negotiables and non-negotiables (and much more!)
                        • Explore principles and approaches for equity, diversity and inclusion, and apply them to stakeholder analysis
                        • Develop an evaluation framework to suit the scenario
                        • Identify key roles and resources needed to implement the P2/engagement plan
                        • Develop and apply a suitable presentation to senior leaders that will secure commitment and resources for the P2/engagement plan
                        • Identify the many different contexts of engagement, including the elements present in more complex engagement scenarios

                        Professional Certification/Credits

                        • This course is required for IAP2 Professional Certification

                        Tech needed for the course

                        Cancellation and Refund Policy

                        Accessibility Policy

                        This is an IAP2 core training course delivered externally by an IAP2 licensed trainer. MUST REGISTER ON TRAINERS WEBSITE!

                        Click Here to Register on trainers website! 

                        Trainer: Cassie Hemphill 

                        Cassie Hemphill has more than 25 years of experience in designing and leading public participation and engagement processes and projects. Her work has included environmental and natural resource management, healthcare delivery, education, and community-based human services. She has been creating and delivering remote and in-person training experiences for professionals and community members for more than 15 years.

                        Cassie has been involved with IAP2 since 2003. She helped create IAP2 USA’s Professional Certification program, assisted with updates and development of IAP2’s course materials, and has served on the USA and Intermountain Chapter boards. She currently serves as an IAP2 Licensing Programme Mentor, preparing candidates from around the world to become IAP2 Licensed Trainers.

                        Cassie’s Ph.D. research explored public/private collaboration in environmental management. Her M.A. research analyzed decision-makers' openness to public input. She has a Graduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and is an IAP2 USA Certified Public Participation Practitioner (CP3), a Certified Mediator (CM), and a Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF).

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                      • Applying Methods for Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                        • December 08, 2026
                        • December 11, 2026
                        • 4 sessions
                        • Online with Craddock Stropes
                        • 20
                        Register

                        Applying Methods for Public Participation

                        **You must first complete Fundamentals of Public Participation before this course**

                        Applying Methods is a Level 2 course that introduces practitioners to a large number of P2 methods. This includes learning how to design specific methods, developing good question design, and having an opportunity to practice running some methods.

                        The course is suitable for practitioners who are part of a team implementing a P2 process and are looking for the practical skills to be effective in designing and applying methods.

                        Course Objectives

                        • Identify a range of methods that can be used for various engagement purposes and processes, and strategies to select the most appropriate method/s for an engagement project/process
                        • Research, design and test a F2F and/or online method using a range of tools and resources
                        • Apply the four steps of designing a method incorporating the eight key components of method design
                        • Develop rational and experiential aims
                        • Design an appropriate format
                        • Design questions and process
                        • Develop appropriate communications
                        • Combine methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives and test for appropriate sequencing.
                        • Incorporate inclusion and diversity principles
                        • Identify data management needs, evaluation points and measures
                        • Identify resources required
                        • Explore a variety of both F2F and online methods/techniques that are more structured and have nested methods within them (e.g. Deliberative Processes, Appreciative Inquiry and Open Space Technology)
                        • Analyze the specific requirements for online and digital methods, identify and select appropriate platforms and tools to meet needs and strategize to develop these methods for delivery
                        • Identify principles for monitoring online activity
                        • Test the design by running elements of the method and submitting to peer review using a checklist
                        • Apply methods to achieve engagement goals and objectives, including using effective communication skills, and test for appropriate sequencing
                        • Design key messages and communication tools that build trust and integrity, and meet the needs of diverse audiences

                          Payment Policy

                          • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                          • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                          • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                          PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                          Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                          Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                          All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                          Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                          There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                          IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                          Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                          Meet Your Trainer

                          Craddock Stropes

                          Craddock Stropes (she/her) is a facilitator, trainer and coach with more than 25 years of experience in the local government and non-profit sectors. Her work centers on connecting people with ideas to create inclusive, strategic and tangible solutions that make everyday lives better. She is chair of the IAP2 USA Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, a member of the American Public Works Association national DEI Committee and is active in the International Network of Asian Public Administrators. She has presented learning sessions on inclusion, public engagement and crisis communications for Connect, California Association for Public Information Officers, Public Relations Society of America, American Public Works Association and Transforming Local Government conferences. She is currently a senior management analyst for the City of Carlsbad.


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                        • Fundamentals of Public Participation - Hosted by IAP2 USA

                          • December 14, 2026
                          • December 15, 2026
                          • 2 sessions
                          • Online with Linda Kopecky
                          • 21
                          Register

                          Fundamentals of Public Participation

                          The Fundamentals of Public Participation (P2) course is a prerequisite to other courses in the Global Learning Pathway that sets out the underpinning models and frameworks of engagement practice as defined by the IAP2 community.

                          The focus of this course is on understanding and applying the practices of meaningful and effective P2 and what participants need to know to do this well. The training explores best practices, and how to design and apply this knowledge to your P2.

                          Course Objectives

                          By the end of this course participants will be able to:

                          • Define P2 and related terms and what makes it unique
                          • Identify what makes P2 meaningful, and reflect on the benefits, risks and myths related to P2
                          • Identify the role that values play in P2 work, and the leadership attributes that will serve them in practice 
                          • Reflect on and apply ethical leadership actions and abilities to P2 situations
                          • Apply the Profiles of P2 model to P2, and explore organization- and community-led engagement and how that impacts the engagement process
                          • Reflect on and apply the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion, and explore the roles and impacts of power and influence
                          • Apply the IAP2 Spectrum to P2 situations and practice
                          • Explore the Practice Framework as a tool for effective planning and process, and assess the quality of the process

                          Payment Policy

                          • Full payment must be received before the start of the course to confirm participation. 
                          • Please contact info@iap2usa.org if you will be paying by PO or check and will not be able to submit payment in advance of training.
                          • Your registration may be cancelled if payment has not been submitted and alternative arrangments have not been confirmed by IAP2 USA.

                          PLEASE NOTE: Our registration system requires that members log into the IAP2 USA website using their username and password. This allows us to maintain an accurate history of participation. Once logged in, the discounted registration rates for members will be available. We do not use registration codes for members - only international members of our other IAP2 affiliates and APA members. 

                          Members from other IAP2 affiliates/regions and APA members should contact info@iap2usa.org to obtain the registration discount code.

                          Cancellation and Substitution Policy

                          All cancellations and requests for refunds for IAP2 USA online courses must be made in writing as indicated below. Requests must be sent to IAP2 USA at info@iap2usa.org.Telephone requests/voicemails will not be honored.

                          Full refunds require written notice and must be submitted by 12:00 noon Eastern Time three days prior to the first day of class. Refunds will include an administrative fee of $25.00.

                          There will be no refunds for cancellation requests received two or fewer days prior to the start of class. However, a substitute may be named prior to the beginning of the course and that registration will be honored. Please email your substitution information to info@iap2usa.org and support@iap2usa.org prior to the start date of the course.

                          IAP2 USA reserves the right to cancel courses not meeting the required minimum by the end of the day three days prior to the start of class. In such circumstances, full refunds will be granted and admin fee waived. 

                          Professional Certification and Continuing Education Credits

                          Meet Your Trainer

                          Linda Kopecky 

                          Show details

                        IAP2 Licensed Trainers

                        IAP2 USA Trainers are among the most dedicated, experienced and welcoming trainers in the world. Many volunteered as course developers for the Flagship Courses, collaborators in the formation of the IAP2 Federation, and leaders in launching the IAP2 USA Affiliate. Learn more about the History of IAP2 USA and Get Involved!

                        For the complete schedule of upcoming trainings and events, please visit our Events Calendar. In addition, the IAP2 Federation maintains a global calendar of public IAP2 training programs.


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