Respect

There are now five generations working side by side in the workplace – The Silent Generation/Traditionalists (born 1900-1945), Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964), Generation X (born 1965-1980), Millennials (born 1981-2000), and Generation Z (born 2000-present). According to The Center for Generational Kinetics (CGK), learning how to communicate with, understand, incentivize, support and empower a multigenerational workforce is “mission critical.” We agree. That’s why in fall 2019, in support of our signature sponsorship program, Project Keymaker, we hosted two courses through BTLaw Academy to this end: “Obstacle Course” featuring three of our trailblazing partners, Paula Goedert, Bill McErlean and Alan Mills, and “Crossing the Generational Divide” featuring CGK faculty, Alicia Rainwater. Both helped us deliberately activate the unique gifts and talents each generation brings to the table and the “Obstacle Course” program in particular demonstrated the respect that comes from doing so.

Bunnie Poullard

Associate, Los Angeles

“I found the Obstacle Course presentation refreshing and insightful. It was helpful to learn how Alan and Paula overcame the daunting challenges of discrimination in their careers through perseverance and relying on each of their individual strengths. I also appreciated all of the panel members’ emphasis on the importance of maintaining a commitment to excellence, as the foundation for building a successful practice.”

Carrie Marie Raver

Partner, Fort Wayne, said about her mentor, Bill McErlean, Partner, Chicago

“As the chair of the litigation department, Bill understood the strategic needs of the department as a whole and promoted the success of individuals. Bill is a wonderful mentor, colleague, and friend.”

Melissa Vallone

Partner, Chicago, said about her mentor, Paula Goedert, Partner, Chicago

“Paula has invested in me and pushed me to do and learn more, which has expanded and changed my practice. She has provided me with innumerable opportunities and guidance, encouragement, independence, and at times, appropriate criticism along the way in all manner of things. I feel extremely lucky to count her as mentor and teacher – I would not be as successful or happy in my practice without her. I only hope that I can pay it forward.”

Oni Harton

Partner, Indianapolis, said about her mentor, Alan Mills, Partner, Indianapolis

“Alan not only collects fine art, but he is a disciplined collector and curator of relationships as well. He has continually invited me into rooms with his most cherished business relationships, positioned me to lead teams for top clients, and has provided unparalleled access into the business of the firm. Why? Plainly, this most sagacious practitioner is unabashed in his devotion to increasing diversity and inclusion in our profession in the years to come.”