September Chapter Meeting: Conflict, Ethics, and Culture: Navigating the Tough Conversations

Event: September Chapter Meeting

Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025

Time: 11:50 AM - 1:00 PM

Location: Hybrid meeting

• In-Person:  Bloomington Public Library, Room #1
• Virtual: Microsoft Teams

Meeting Topic: Conflict, Ethics, and Culture: Navigating the Tough Conversations

Speaker: Robert Shorty, Ph.D. - Vice President People Equity & Culture, Grand Valley Sate University

Meeting Agenda: 

• 11:30 AM - In-person attendees arrive for networking and lunch (pre-ordered boxed lunches to be provided for in-person attendees)
• 11:50 AM - Virtual attendees login to webinar (a Microsoft Teams link will be sent a day prior to the event; join on a device with or without a camera; there will be a call-in feature)
• 11:55 AM - Announcements + speaker introductions (speaker will be virtual)
• 12:00 - 1:00 PM - Virtual presentation by speaker followed by Q&A

About the presentation: This is an interactive session designed for HR professionals to strengthen their ability to lead through complexity. The program explores how cultural dynamics and ethical frameworks shape workplace conflict, and equips participants with tools to manage emotionally charged conversations with clarity and compassion. Drawing on Dr. Shorty’s expertise in psychological safety and inclusive leadership, the session emphasizes identity-aware mediation and ethical decision-making in HR practice. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to foster trust, equity, and resilience in their organizations.

Re-certification Credits: 1-hour general HRCI* and 1 SHRM professional development credit (PDC) will be shared with attendees after the meeting. *This session qualifies for Ethics credit with HRCI.

Boxed lunch options (for in-person attendees): 

• Turkey Deluxe – Roasted turkey breast, leafy lettuce, tomato, on an Ancient Grain bun and assorted cheeses. Includes chips, pickle, and chocolate chip cookie.
• Ham Deluxe - Ham, leafy lettuce, tomato, on an All-butter Croissant and assorted cheeses. Includes chips, pickle, and chocolate chip cookie.
• Nutty-Mixed Up Salad - Grilled, 100% antibiotic-free chicken breast, grapes, strawberries, cranberry-walnut mix, organic field greens, and feta with balsamic vinaigrette and chocolate chip cookie.
• Veggie Sandwich – Organic spinach, guacamole, hummus, Roma tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, on an Ancient Grain bun with Fresh fruit and chocolate chip cookie.