Janelle White is an experienced leader with over 15 years of expertise in state government, specializing in human resources and driving organizational change. Throughout her career, Janelle has been instrumental in managing key initiatives such as HR Modernization, Luma implementation, COVID response strategies, the introduction of Paid Parental Leave, employee engagement, and striving for continuous process improvement.

She is particularly passionate about organizational design and leadership development, helping to build efficient, motivated teams. Outside of her professional life, Janelle enjoys snow skiing, boating, and riding bikes. She and her husband, Jordan, live in Idaho with their two children, Grayson and Addy.

With over 12 years at the Division of Human Resources, Michelle currently serves as the Deputy Administrator for the Central Office.

She oversees statewide initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational goals. Michelle is passionate about public service and takes particular interest in regulatory and legislative processes that drive impactful HR changes. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human resource management and is a Certified Public Manager.

Outside of work, Michelle enjoys spending time with her 12-year-old twins, often cheering them on from the sidelines of their sports games. Embracing the “Man in the Arena” mindset, Michelle is committed to taking action and making a difference, recognizing that even in the face of criticism or failure, her efforts to improve the workplace and champion employee well-being are invaluable. “It’s about being the one who dares to take action and make a difference.”

Andrea Ryan has served as DHR Deputy Administrator since April 2024.

She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business administration. Since joining the State of Idaho in 2010, she has worked in Human Resources for both the IDL and DHR.

She is dedicated to improving HR consistency and support for state employees and supervisors, taking a business partner approach to identify and address areas for improvement.

Andrea is passionate about personal and professional growth, as evidenced by her “24 in 24 list” focused on progress, which she would love to provide you with more details. When she’s not working, she enjoys outdoor adventures with her family and friends/>

With over a decade of public service experience and a business administration degree with an HR focus from Washington State University,

Michelle Hermann brings strategic vision and practical expertise to her role. She leads four key programs—Systems & Data, Support Services, Learning & Development, and Statewide Training—driving innovation, efficiency, and support. She is passionate about creating a positive and productive work environment that’s also fun!

Outside of work, she’s a dedicated mother of five, a supportive wife, and a passionate holiday decorator known for her signature flamingo flair. Michelle brings warmth, purpose, and a sense of enjoyment to everything she does.

As a versatile HR professional, Haley Westenskow brings extensive experience in employee relations, problem-solving, employee engagement, and internal investigations.

She is dedicated to fostering positive work environments through effective communication, conflict resolution, and strategic HR practices. Joining the Idaho Division of Human Resources (DHR) in 2020, she leverages her valuable HR experience from the private sector and nonprofit organizations.

Her expertise spans recruiting, employee relations, benefits administration, FMLA and ADA compliance, and performance management. Haley holds a bachelor’s degree from Boise State University and certifications from SHRM and AWI, she is known for her creative problem-solving skills and passion for helping organizations and individuals navigate complex workplace issues. An Idaho native, she enjoys spending time with her family, attending sporting events, and exploring the outdoors.

Sara Stowe serves as an HR Operations Bureau Chief for the State of Idaho, leading a team of HR professionals who support state agencies through strategic, people-focused HR services. With over a decade of experience in both the public and private sectors, Sara brings a well-rounded perspective to workforce development, organizational design, and operational planning. She has led HR teams through growth, transition, and modernization, with a focus on aligning people strategies with agency goals and cultivating high performing, engaged teams.

Known for her thoughtful leadership and collaborative approach, Sara believes HR plays a vital role in creating clarity, strengthening systems, and empowering individuals at every level of an organization. She is especially passionate about balancing structure with flexibility and fostering environments that value accountability, innovation, and trust.

Sara holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Boise State University, a Master of Science in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Springfield College, and the Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification. She lives in Boise with her husband, two children, and their dog, and enjoys exploring new places with her family.

Jessica (“Jess”) Griffin currently serves as one of three HR Operations Bureau Chiefs, overseeing a team of HR Officers who provide support to diverse agencies across the State of Idaho.

Jess’s passion for Human Resources was ignited during her service in the United States Army. Upon returning to North Idaho, she embarked on her HR career in the private sector, starting as an HR Coordinator and steadily advancing her professional trajectory. In April 2018, Jess transitioned to public service, joining the Idaho Transportation Department as an HR Specialist, Sr., and quickly progressed to the role of HR Supervisor.

In October 2022, she joined the Department of Health & Welfare as the HR Officer before being promoted to her current leadership position as Bureau Chief in June 2024. Jess holds an associate’s degree in business technology, a bachelor’s in business administration with an HR management focus, and has maintained her SHRM-CP certification since April 2017. Driven by a strong commitment to public service, Jess is dedicated to supporting the dedicated professionals who serve the citizens of Idaho every day.

Chrystelle Zimmerman is an HR Operations Bureau Chief for the State of Idaho, overseeing Human Resources for law enforcement, corrections, and regulatory agencies. She began her state career at the Division of Human Resources Central Office, later serving as HR Officer for Information Technology Services prior to her current role as Bureau Chief.

With 24+ years in HR across higher education, local government, and state agencies, Chrystelle brings a deep understanding of employee relations, organizational strategy, and talent management, believing that HR’s role is to foster a culture of trust, transparency, and empowerment. She is passionate about leadership development, problem-solving, and driving meaningful workplace improvements.

Chrystelle holds a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Human Resources and certificate in Asian American studies from California State University, Long Beach. Outside of work, Chrystelle loves spending time outdoors—camping, paddleboarding, and traveling with her husband and two children. Her personal motto is “Love, Serve, Educate,” a philosophy that guides both her professional and personal life.