Crystal Stauffer: Building Effective Workplaces and Supporting Essential Services

Crystal Stauffer’s introduction to the public sector came via the classroom.

Working in 2018 and 2019 as a substitute teacher in Danville (Va.) Public Schools, Stauffer’s responsibilities included following regular teachers’ plans, assigning classwork and homework, and maintaining a positive learning environment for students.

Within four years, Stauffer would be helping to maintain a positive work environment for employees at another Danville-based organization.

Stauffer served as a recruitment and employment specialist with Care Advantage Inc. in Danville from March 2023 to July 2025. That role gave Stauffer her first HR-related experience, and acted as the springboard to her current position as human resources director with Caswell County Local Government in Yanceyville, N.C.

The opening with Caswell County offered Stauffer the chance to continue doing the type of work at which she excelled, while allowing her to make a difference in her community.

“I’m passionate about employee relations, leadership development, and creating fair and supportive work environments where employees can succeed,” says Stauffer, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration and business management from ECPI University in Newport News, Va.

“I also value the sense of purpose, collaboration and public service that comes with working in local government.”

Stauffer joined PSHRA as a member in October 2025 to experience that same sense of collaboration with her public sector HR peers.

“I chose to join PSHRA because I value the opportunity to connect with other public sector HR professionals who share a commitment to serving employees and communities effectively,” she says.

“I believe collaboration, continued learning and professional development are essential in today’s HR environment, especially within local government,” says Stauffer, who has also earned a master’s degree in human resources management/personnel administration from DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management.

“PSHRA provides a strong network of professionals, valuable resources, and opportunities to stay informed on best practices that will help me continue growing as an HR leader.”

Stauffer hopes to further develop her expertise in areas such as employee relations, organizational development and leadership support, “while continuing to advocate for strong workplace cultures and employee well-being,” she says.

“I also aspire to mentor others in the HR field, contribute to meaningful organizational initiatives and remain actively involved in professional organizations that support growth and innovation in the HR field.”

Looking back, Stauffer says the ability to make these types of contributions was a key reason why she took her current position in the public sector with Caswell County.

“I pursued a career in public sector HR because I wanted the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on both employees and the community they serve,” she says. “Public sector HR allows me to help build strong, effective workplaces that directly support essential services for citizens.”