NASCA Press Release: Ohio’s Data Analytics Learning Center & Community of Practice Network Announced as 2026 Innovation in State Government: Employee Engagement & Experience Award Recipient

For Immediate Release
October 9, 2026

Contact: Elizabeth Whitehouse, Executive Director, executivedirector@nasca.org

NASCA Press Release: Ohio’s Data Analytics Learning Center and Community of Practice Network: Building an Empowered Workforce Announced as 2026 Innovation in State Government: Employee Engagement and Experience Award Recipient

Columbus, OH – The National Association of State Chief Administrators is proud to announce Ohio’s Data Analytics Learning Center and Community of Practice Network: Building an Empowered Workforce as the 2026 NASCA Innovation in State Government: Employee Engagement and Experience Award recipient.

The Innovation in State Government Awards recognize state administration department programs, projects, and initiatives that exemplify leading practices in the industry.

Ohio is energizing its workforce, putting people at the center of technology, and elevating data and analytics capabilities through its statewide Data Analytics Learning Center (DALC) and the Ohio Data Community of Practice (CoP) Network. Led by the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Office of Data and Efficiency and the State Chief Data Officer (CDO), these initiatives are ensuring every employee has the confidence, skills, and peer community to use data effectively.

“Data has become an increasingly valuable resource and Governor Mike DeWine challenged State of Ohio agencies to make strategic use of their data to chart a path oward a better, stronger Ohio,” said DAS Director Kathleen C. Madden. “Our workforce is key to achieving this vision, and I am especially grateful to State CDO Raivo Murnieks for spearheading this remarkable work.”

What once varied by agency is now a shared journey built on accessible training, clear career pathways, and vibrant peer networks. The new learning ecosystem blends structured education, professional development, practical application, and ongoing collaboration. DALC supports growth from foundational data literacy to advanced professional and leadership development, while CoPs extend learning beyond the classroom with networking, office hours, knowledge sharing, and collaborative problem solving across the state. 

The scalable, sustainable model modernizes the workforce, reduces duplication, and maximizes enterprise investments, all while celebrating the dedication and ingenuity of Ohio’s data professionals. 

Jessica Lauric, Data Professional Program: Data Analyst Graduate states that “The Data Analyst Bronze Badge program transformed how I approach data by giving me hands-on experience with new tools like Power BI and empowering me to apply those skills directly to my work. It inspired a renewed confidence in my abilities and motivated me to continue growing through further education in data analytics.”

NASCA celebrates their selection, and we look forward to their continued work advancing excellence in state government operations. 

Founded in 1976, NASCA is the nation’s only nonpartisan, nonprofit organization serving chief administrative officers or CAOs. NASCA provides a forum for state chief administrative officers to exchange information and learn new ideas from each other and private sector partners. NASCA engages states in transforming government operations through shared knowledge, operational excellence, and thought leadership.

For more information on NASCA, please visit NASCA.org.