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Every day, municipal employees help keep communities safe, healthy, and running smoothly. As the demands on local government continue to evolve, ongoing education plays an important role in preparing professionals to lead teams, solve problems, and serve residents effectively. Through employer partnerships, UNH College of Professional Studies (UNH CPS) helps make that professional development more accessible.

New Hampshire’s municipalities face many of the same workforce challenges seen nationwide, including rapid technological change, evolving public expectations, and the need for adaptable leaders. Communities depend on professionals with expertise in leadership, budgeting, policy, public safety, and organizational management. As municipal employees often wear many hats, these skills are essential for serving residents effectively and supporting long-term community success.

UNH CPS Municipal Partners Include:
 

• Cheshire County 

• City of Manchester 

• City of New York 

• Coös County 

• Town of Derry 

• Town of Londonderry 

• Town of Merrimack 

• Town of Mont Vernon 

• Town of Wilton 

Workforce Success in Action

Meet municipal employees who have advanced their careers and strengthened their communities through education.

Spotlight: City of Manchester, NH
 

Wanda Castillo-Diaz ‘23 is a Community Health Worker Supervisor and serves on the Public Health and Safety Team, a multilingual, community-

based team that connects people to resources and services. She graduated with a B.S. in Applied Psychology with an Option in Addictions Studies. In her role, Wanda supports the Manchester Health Department through resident case management and advocacy, connections to integrated health care services, basic-needs problem-solving, violence intervention, and community outreach. 

“Public health demands a mindset of continuous learning. My education taught me how to collaborate more effectively, listen actively, and adapt to meet the evolving needs of the communities I serve. These skills are essential for addressing public health challenges and helping create healthier, more informed communities through collaboration and evidence-based action.” 

Karen Poulin '20, SHRM-certified Human Resource Analyst, supports a municipal workforce of approximately 1,200 employees, with expertise in HR best practices, recruitment and retention and position classification and job evaluation. 

She supports complex personnel issues and ensures compliance with employment laws, city policies, union contracts, and ordinances. Karen received her B.S. in Human Resource Management, and today her work plays a vital role in supporting the city’s long-term success. 

“Human resources is a dynamic, evolving field that demands adaptability and proactive support for people and strategy. Education grounded in best practices helps HR professionals navigate organizational change while staying accountable to laws and regulations. Ongoing learning strengthens decision-making, communication, and emotional intelligence for new and experienced HR leaders.” 

Chief Ryan Cashin ‘21 has been a member of the Manchester Fire Department since February 1999. He was promoted to lieutenant, captain, district chief, and then deputy chief, where he was responsible for training, EMS, fire prevention, and all community outreach services. Chief Cashin earned his B.S. in Business Management with an option in Management. Cashin’s progressive leadership responsibilities illustrate how preparation supports long-term career growth and operational excellence. 

"Education and leadership training provide first responders with the critical thinking, technical knowledge, and interpersonal skills needed to manage complex incidents, work seamlessly across agencies, and lead teams under pressure.” 

Learn more about our municipal partnerships: