MT|SHRM Monthly Chapter Meeting

Cultivating Respect: Fostering Civility in the Workplace through Education and Engagement

Presented by Eric Patton, Financial Representative,  Northwestern Mutual & Social Advocate, Samantha Gerken, Senior Counsel, Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani

In today’s diverse and dynamic work environment, civility is crucial for fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and productivity. This panel discussion aims to explore the significance of civility in the workplace, with a particular focus on educational strategies that promote respectful interactions among colleagues. Our expert panel will engage in dialogue about the impact of civility on employee well-being, teamwork, and organizational success.

We will examine practical approaches for cultivating a civil workplace, including the implementation of training programs, mentorship opportunities, and open communication channels. By sharing insights and experiences, panelists will highlight the role of leadership in modeling respectful behavior and the importance of creating an inclusive atmosphere where all voices are valued.

Join us for an enlightening conversation that will equip attendees with the tools to foster a more respectful and supportive workplace culture, ultimately enhancing both individual and collective performance.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the Importance of Civility: Participants will be able to articulate the significance of civility in the workplace and its impact on employee morale, collaboration, and overall organizational success.

• Identify Effective Strategies: Attendees will learn practical strategies and best practices for promoting civility, including educational programs and communication techniques that foster respect among colleagues.

• Develop Actionable Plans: Participants will create a personalized action plan to implement civility initiatives within their own teams or organizations, focusing on leadership roles and inclusive practices that encourage respectful interactions.

Schedule:

7:30 a.m. – Registration, Breakfast and Networking
7:50 a.m. – Welcome and Introduction
8:00 a.m. – Program Presentation
9:00 a.m. – Meeting Concludes

Registration: Closes Monday, November 4 at 11:59 PM CT
Certification:1 SHRM and HRCI CEU

Meet Our Speakers

Eric Patton, Financial Representative, Northwestern Mutual & Social Advocate

Eric Patton, a Financial Representative with Northwestern Mutual and a Tennessee native, brings a unique blend of financial expertise and social advocacy to his work. In his professional role, Eric excels at helping clients build tailored financial plans, guiding them toward long-term security and success. His genuine passion for forming lasting relationships ensures that his clients receive not only sound financial advice but also personalized care and attention. He is the first LGBTQ+ identified representative in Tennessee for Northwestern Mutual.

Outside of his career, Eric is a committed advocate for LGBTQ rights, working to create a more inclusive and equitable community. He has long served with the Human Rights Campaign and Tennessee Equality Project. His advocacy reflects a deep belief in equality and a desire to uplift marginalized voices. In 2023, Eric took his commitment to public service to a new level, running as a candidate for Nashville Metro Council District 11. His campaign focused on representing the diverse voices of his district and bridging the urban and suburban divide. Through his work, both professionally and as a community leader, Eric is devoted to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around him.

Samantha Gerken, Senior Counsel, Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani

Samantha C. Gerken is Senior Counsel and a member of the GRSM Employment Law practice group. Samantha’s practice includes representing companies in administrative complaints of harassment and discrimination with the EEOC and state departments and representing companies in litigation under Title VII, ADA, ADEA, FLSA, discrimination, retaliation, harassment, wage and hour violations.

Samantha advises employers across the country with day-to-day counseling on issues including hiring, separation, performance management, disability accommodations, leaves of absence, exempt/nonexempt and employee/contractor classifications, and other personnel actions. She also drafts and updates employee manuals and policies, as well as template employment forms and letters. Samantha works with her clients to prevent employment law claims and litigation by focusing on training, investigation and documentation policies, and early claim resolution. Samantha also advises clients on changing local, state, and federal employment laws.