Program Venues

We are attempting to meet requests for in-person meetings as well as continue our success with virtual meetings. Please note the venue when registering for an event. Thank you!

Upcoming events

Upcoming Events

  • ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Organizing with the Brain in Mind©

    • 26 May 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 17 registrants
    Register


    ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Organizing with the Brain in Mind©

     Declutter your brain and your space with neuroscience-supported strategies for planning, prioritizing, and peace of mind.

    Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

    Tuesday, May 26 | Virtual via Zoom

    ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

    Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

    Each session includes:

    - Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

    - Interactive experiences that help learning stick

    - Resources and strategies to apply immediately

    - A welcoming space for discussion and community

    Schedule & Format:

    - When: Fourth Monday of each month

    - Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

    - Where: Zoom

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

    Show details

  • Train the Trainer Workshop 2026

    • 09 Jun 2026
    • 8:30 AM
    • 10 Jun 2026
    • 4:30 PM
    • GreenState Credit Union Financial Center
    • 4 registrants
    Register


    Location:

    GreenState Credit Union
    2355 Landon Rd, North Liberty, IA 52317

    Dates:

    • June 9th: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (Check-in: 8:15 a.m.)
    • June 10th: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

    Program Overview

    You already know your content. Now it’s time to elevate how you deliver it.

    This two-day program is designed to help you become a more confident and effective trainer by focusing on how people actually learn. You will explore the science behind adult learning, build practical skills you can use right away, and gain insight into what truly makes training engaging, memorable, and impactful.

    This is not a sit and listen experience. You will actively participate, practice new approaches, and learn alongside others. You will leave with more than just notes. You will leave with practical tools, fresh perspective, and a renewed confidence in your ability to create learning experiences that stick.

    What You'll Walk Away With

    This program blends practical skill building with a deeper understanding of how learning works so you can create training that truly sticks.

    Every participant leaves this program with three things:

    New Knowledge- Understand How Learning Works

    • A science backed understanding of how the adult brain learns, stores, and retrieves information
    • Clarity on the purpose of training and when facilitation is the better approach
    • The theory behind openers, transitions, and closers, and why each one matters
    • Learn what makes training memorable versus forgettable

    New Tools- Design Training That Delivers Results

    • A practical training design framework they can apply to any program they build
    • Ready to use techniques for opening, transitioning, and closing sessions with impact
    • A toolkit of activities and structures grounded in adult learning principles that you can start using in your organization right away!

    A Better Understanding of How Learning Actually Happens- Build Confidence as a Trainer

    • A clear picture of what is happening in the brain during a training session and how to use that to their advantage
    • An honest look at what makes training stick versus what makes it forgettable
    • Confidence to make intentional choices as a trainer, not just do what has always been done.
    • Leave with a fresh perspective and a new approach to your work

    Who This Program Is For

    This program is designed for two groups of people: those who are already training and want to do it better, and those who are moving into a training role and want to start strong.

    • Trainers who want to understand the "why" behind what they do — not just the "how"
    • Subject matter experts who have been asked to train others and want to do it well
    • Professionals stepping into a training or facilitation role for the first time
    • Experienced trainers ready to push past habit and reconnect with best practice.

    Wherever you are starting from, this program meets you there. Come ready to engage, reflect, and practice. You will leave with more than notes — you will leave with a new lens for your work.

    Pricing

    $199 for members

    $249 for non-members

    Meet Our Facilitators!


    Marcie Van Note, MS.Ed

    Specialization in Training and Performance Improvement Consultant and Vice President of Events of the ATD Hawkeye Chapter

    Marcie is a seasoned educator turned consultant with a passion for creating training that truly sticks. She currently serves as the VP of Events for the ATD Hawkeye Chapter and is a past president.

    As the former Director of multiple graduate programs at Mount Mercy University, Marcie spent years designing and delivering engaging learning experiences both online and in the classroom.

    Today, she partners with organizations to develop impactful training, leadership development, and Train the Trainer programs. Known for her interactive and practical approach, Marcie helps leaders and teams build skills, confidence, and lasting growth through learning experiences that are engaging, relevant, and results driven.


    Melanie Hoffner

    Founder and Chief People Development Specialist, Brain Bonanza, LLC.

    Melanie has a passion for helping individuals and teams unlock their potential through brain based learning and development. She is also a Past President of the ATD Hawkeye Chapter and currently leads the chapter’s monthly SIG.

    With a dynamic and engaging style, Melanie has impacted learners locally and internationally through training, speaking, and coaching. Her work focuses on enhancing brain performance, building emotional intelligence, and helping people move from stuck to forward through practical, science backed strategies.

    As a lifelong learner, Melanie brings deep expertise in neuroscience, leadership, and coaching. Through her interactive and motivating approach, she helps individuals and organizations build confidence, take meaningful action, and achieve lasting growth.

    For additional questions, please contact nikkinorton@hawkeyeatd.org. 

    Show details

  • ATD Roadshow- Learning Through Change: A Story Exchange Experience

    • 12 Jun 2026
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Indian Creek Nature Center - 5300 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA
    • 4 registrants
    Register

    June 12th, 2026 - In Person Event

    Step away from the office and into a space designed for reflection, connection, and fresh perspective.

    Join us at the beautiful Indian Creek Nature Center for a morning centered on stories, the real, messy, meaningful stories of change. We will kick things off by hearing from Executive Director John Myers about the mission behind ICNC, then shifting the spotlight to YOU!

    Bring a story, an example, or even a work in progress experience of change in your organization, whether it is a win, a challenge, or somewhere in between. Together, we will learn from each other, spark new ideas, and if the weather cooperates, enjoy some time outdoors as part of the experience.

    Coffee and light snacks will be provided.

    When:

    Friday, June 12th, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM.

    Where:

    Indian Creek Nature Center - 5300 Otis Rd SE, Cedar Rapids, IA

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend the program for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00.

    Capability Model: 

    Impacting Organizational Capability

    Show details

  • ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Working with the Brain in Mind© (aka Your Best Brain at Work©)

    • 22 Jun 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 5 registrants
    Register


    ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Working with the Brain in Mind© (aka Your Best Brain at Work©)

     From Zoom fatigue to mental multitasking—optimize how you show up, think, and lead during the workday

    Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

    Monday, June 22 | Virtual via Zoom

    ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

    Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

    Each session includes:

    - Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

    - Interactive experiences that help learning stick

    - Resources and strategies to apply immediately

    - A welcoming space for discussion and community

    Schedule & Format:

    - When: Fourth Monday of each month

    - Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

    - Where: Zoom

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

    Show details

  • ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Quick Brain Boosters© (aka Brain Hacks) for Focus, Memory, Attention, and More

    • 27 Jul 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 4 registrants
    Register


    ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Quick Brain Boosters© (aka Brain Hacks) for Focus, Memory, Attention, and More

     Fast, simple neuroscience-based strategies to energize your brain and  your workday

    Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

    Monday, July 27 | Virtual via Zoom

    ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

    Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

    Each session includes:

    - Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

    - Interactive experiences that help learning stick

    - Resources and strategies to apply immediately

    - A welcoming space for discussion and community

    Schedule & Format:

    - When: Fourth Monday of each month

    - Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

    - Where: Zoom

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

    Show details

  • ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Performance Reviews with the Brain in Mind©

    • 24 Aug 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 3 registrants
    Register


    ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Performance Reviews with the Brain in Mind©

     Shift feedback from fear to growth—practical neuroscience tools for feedback, motivation, and reflection

    Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

    Monday, August 24 | Virtual via Zoom

    ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

    Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

    Each session includes:

    - Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

    - Interactive experiences that help learning stick

    - Resources and strategies to apply immediately

    - A welcoming space for discussion and community

    Schedule & Format:

    - When: Fourth Monday of each month

    - Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

    - Where: Zoom

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

    Show details

  • ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Burnout, Boundaries & the Brain©

    • 28 Sep 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 1 registrant
    Register


    ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Burnout, Boundaries & the Brain©

     Recognizing, reversing, and preventing burnout using applied neuroscience and nervous system resets

    Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

    Monday, September 28 | Virtual via Zoom

    ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

    Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

    Each session includes:

    - Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

    - Interactive experiences that help learning stick

    - Resources and strategies to apply immediately

    - A welcoming space for discussion and community

    Schedule & Format:

    - When: Fourth Monday of each month

    - Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

    - Where: Zoom

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

    Show details

  • ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Change Your Mindset, Change Your Brain©

    • 26 Oct 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 1 registrant
    Register


    ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Change Your Mindset, Change Your Brain©

     A practical exploration of neuroplasticity, RAS, and shifting out of survival-mode thinking

    Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

    Monday, October 26 | Virtual via Zoom

    ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

    Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

    Each session includes:

    - Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

    - Interactive experiences that help learning stick

    - Resources and strategies to apply immediately

    - A welcoming space for discussion and community

    Schedule & Format:

    - When: Fourth Monday of each month

    - Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

    - Where: Zoom

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

    Show details

  • ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: The Neuroscience of Trust & Psychological Safety©

    • 23 Nov 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 1 registrant
    Register


    ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: The Neuroscience of Trust & Psychological Safety©

     Explore how oxytocin, cortisol, and social threat detection impact your team’s collaboration, communication, and creativity

    Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

    Monday, November 23 | Virtual via Zoom

    ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

    Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

    Each session includes:

    - Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

    - Interactive experiences that help learning stick

    - Resources and strategies to apply immediately

    - A welcoming space for discussion and community

    Schedule & Format:

    - When: Fourth Monday of each month

    - Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

    - Where: Zoom

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

    Show details

  • ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Reflections with the Brain in Mind©

    • 28 Dec 2026
    • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
    • Online via Zoom
    • 1 registrant
    Register


    ATD Hawkeye Chapter SIG: Reflections with the Brain in Mind©

     Look back with intention, celebrate small wins, and set yourself up for a brain-friendly new year

    Facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner

    Monday, December 28 | Virtual via Zoom

    ATD Hawkeye Chapter is thrilled to host a Special Interest Group (SIG) just for you—one that blends brain science with real-world strategies to help you develop talent more effectively.

    Introducing Talent Development with the Brain in Mind, a monthly virtual series facilitated by Melanie K. Hoffner, certified Brain-Based Trainer, Dr. Amen Licensed Brain Health Coach, and self-proclaimed “brain junkie.” With warmth, energy, and practical insight, Melanie translates the latest neuroscience into tools you can use to support your brain—and the brains of those you teach, coach, or lead.

    Each session includes:

    - Engaging, research-informed content made simple and actionable

    - Interactive experiences that help learning stick

    - Resources and strategies to apply immediately

    - A welcoming space for discussion and community

    Schedule & Format:

    - When: Fourth Monday of each month

    - Time: 12:00 noon to 1:00pm CT

    - Where: Zoom

    Cost:

    Members can log into the website and register to attend each session for free.  Other guests will need to register online and pay a fee of $20.00 for each session.

    Show details


ATD Hawkeye Chapter
P.O. Box 10847
Cedar Rapids, IA 52410-0847

info@hawkeyeatd.org



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