Michael benefits from Daughters of Charity Ministries’ well established Core Values: (Reverence – honoring the dignity of each person, Integrity – building relationships on trust, Generosity – giving of oneself in service, Unity – working together for the mission.) He has used these core values to encourage a “Culture of Belonging” and the key supportive initiatives that transcend typical DEI boundaries. Michael recognizes that the discomfort some of these initiatives create is not a barrier to success but a gateway to growth. “Leaning into the discomfort,” as he puts it, is essential for meaningful conversations about race, identity, growth and belonging. This philosophy has led him and his Advisory Teams to champion UNDIVIDED workshops that challenge, educate, and support – creating spaces where participants can confront uncomfortable truths, hear other co-worker’s perspectives and in the process, embrace opportunities for personal and organizational development.

“Any time you can get people to listen to messages of Belonging and share about their life experiences, opportunities for growth emerge.” He recognizes that some may become uncomfortable, but if optimally addressed, most people will learn and grow. This process is an opportunity for meaningful personal and work culture change, “Leaning into our challenges, creates growth opportunity.” Michael asserts, viewing uneasy conversations as a portal towards deeper understanding, change and reconciliation. Michael emphasizes education that speaks “to the spirit and the heart of the person,” delivered with kindness to provoke reflection and self-awareness. This educational approach ensures that learning about diversity and inclusion goes beyond cognitive understanding to touch on emotional and spiritual growth, which he believes is crucial for genuine transformation. He also understands this approach is aligned with the Values of his organization.