Posted by Caitlin Joyce, '11, MBA '11 on Thursday, November 1, 2018 at 1:00 PM PDT

SU Advantage is our popular alumni networking series which brings together professionals and experts to explore relevant topics, followed by structured networking. This fall’s topic is “Encouraging Courage in the Workplace.”

What does it mean to be courageous in the workplace? Does it mean you have to make grand gestures and call others out or is it the little things we do each day to support each other counts as courage?

(Wendy Gage)

According to event moderator, Wendy Gage, it’s both. Wendy is a certified executive coach, strategic planner and team builder. Her PLANMAN practice spans the USA. She has also served as a coach in Seattle University's nationally ranked Center for Leadership Formation (LEMBA) since 2008. When we asked Wendy what her definition of courage is, she quoted Winston Churchill saying, “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” She expanded upon that to say, “If we look at the capacity of every kind heart, fierce mind and brave spirit, just imagine how that kind of energy from a number of people would look and feel. It’s encouraging.”

But why should we care about being courageous in the workplace and why is it important? According to Wendy, this topic calls on us as individuals to do our part. The climate of the world and the workplace is not always sunny and bright; it can be uncomfortable and necessary for us to do our part. That’s where courage emerges.

The event on November 15, brings together distinguished Seattle U alumnae to share their experiences and deconstruct the idea of courage in the workplace.
The panelists include Ann Yoo, '98, Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager at Bank of the West, Stephanie Peirolo, '13, Founder of UpperHand, LLC and Kirsten Curry, '01 JD, AIF, CEO of Leading Retirement Solutions.

When asked why she wanted to be a part of this event, Wendy shared that she was excited about who we are bringing together and the focus topic, saying that, “Seattle U is the perfect place for this kind of conversation to be nurtured.” She went on to say, “This event is for everyone who is interested in getting very real about what encouraging courage looks like and feels like in the workplace and uncovering and exploring what they and their friends can do to help grow such a culture.”

Attendees will not only have the opportunity to hear our panelists discuss this engaging topic, but to share their own insights in small networking groups following the discussion. This presents an exciting chance for alumni to gain valuable insights while growing their professional network.

You can learn more about this event and reserve your spot below. Don’t wait–space is limited.

SU Advantage Networking Night
“Encouraging Courage in the Workplace”
Thursday, November 15, 2018
6:30 -8:30 p.m.
Seattle University, LeRoux Room, Student Center 160
Register now.