Janelle Mason, M. S.

Human Resources, Learning & Development, and Workforce Development executive with more than 20 years of experience leading employee development, workforce training, talent management, labor relations, and organizational effectiveness initiatives across higher education, nonprofit, corporate, and community-based settings. Proven success designing training programs, leading high-performing teams, strengthening employee engagement, and driving workforce outcomes through data-informed decision-making.

Adjunct Assistant Professor - Unitek College - Newark, CA

(2024-01)

• Deliver inclusive online instruction using adult learning principles to support diverse learners, promote critical thinking, and enhance student success.
• Utilize learning management systems to monitor performance and support data-informed instruction.

Middle School Science Teacher (Permanent Substitute) - Posen-Robbins School District 143.5 - Posen, IL

(2023-01)

Serve as teacher of record for middle school science classes, delivering standards-aligned instruction and managing classroom operations for 130 students.

• Create inclusive learning environments through differentiated instruction, positive behavior supports, and family engagement.
• Design lessons, assessments, and hands-on laboratory activities that promote student learning.

Director, Workforce and Economic Development - Centers for New Horizons - Chicago, IL

(2023-01 - 2023-12)

• Led workforce development programs aligned with organizational and community needs.
• Established partnerships with employers, educational institutions, and community organizations to expand workforce readiness initiatives.
• Used program data and participant feedback to improve outcomes and program effectiveness.

Interim Human Resources Manager (Concurrent Assignment) - The Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center - Chicago, IL

(2022-01 - 2023-12)

• Directed onboarding, employee training, and professional development initiatives to improve performance and engagement.
• Partnered with leadership to identify workforce needs and implement targeted learning solutions.
• Supported recruitment and talent development efforts aligned with organizational goals.

Sports Program Manager - The Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center - Chicago, IL

(2013-01 - 2023-12)

• Led and developed a 20-member team through coaching, performance management, and professional development.
• Designed and implemented training programs that improved service delivery, staff effectiveness, and participant outcomes.
• Secured $100,000+ in grant funding to develop an anti-violence youth program focused on social-cognitive skill development and academic/career readiness.

Volunteer Resources Manager - The Ray & Joan Kroc Corps Community Center - Chicago, IL

(2012-01 - 2013-12)

• Led recruitment, onboarding, and training efforts for more than 300 volunteers.
• Developed engagement and recognition strategies that strengthened retention and program continuity.
• Coordinated large-scale community service initiatives and volunteer operations.

Substitute Teacher - Harvey School District 152 - Harvey, IL

(2011-01 - 2013-12)

Conducted instruction across diverse classrooms and grade levels.

Real Estate Broker - Supreme Manor Real Estate Services - Chicago, IL

(2006-01 - 2011-12)

Conducted client education workshops on home ownership and property investment.

Human Resources Director - Chicago State University - Chicago, IL

(2002-01 - 2007-12)

• Directed HR operations for 1,200 employees, overseeing labor relations, employee relations, training, policy administration, and compliance.
• Led HR services for 800 Civil Service employees while supervising staff and partnering with seven labor unions.
• Designed and implemented employee development and compliance training programs.

Field Operations Supervisor - United States Census Bureau - Chicago, IL

(2010-01 - 2010-12)

Led training and performance oversight for 200+ temporary employees while ensuring compliance with federal standards.

Human Resources Manager - Mead Packaging (Mead/Westvaco) - Chicago, IL

(1998-01 - 2001-12)

• Managed HR operations, including onboarding, performance management, employee relations, training, and compliance.
• Improved employee retention by 20% through onboarding and development initiatives.
• Reduced workplace injuries by 45% through targeted safety and compliance training programs.

Human Resources Generalist - International Paper - Erie, PA

(1993-01 - 1998-12)

• Delivered training and development programs across union and non-union environments.
• Led management development and diversity initiatives, increasing diverse hiring outcomes by 50%.
• Supported HRIS administration, workforce planning, and compliance processes.

Ph.D. - Industrial & Organizational Psychology - Adler University (2026-06)

M.S. - Management (Human Resources Concentration) - Purdue University

B.S. - Business Administration & Economics - Lincoln University