Live Symposium & Roundtable Discussion
For the first time in modern history, five generations are working together in today’s American workforce. Each generation—shaped by its own social, cultural, and economic experiences—brings distinct values, communication styles, and perspectives to the workplace.
As HR professionals, we face the unique challenge of managing, engaging, and uniting this diverse talent pool. But with this challenge comes opportunity—an opportunity to learn from one another, build stronger teams, and foster more inclusive and innovative workplaces.
- This interactive symposium, exclusively for RI SHRM members, will explore:
- Key traits, strengths, and challenges of each generation
- How generational differences influence collaboration and performance
- Practical strategies for managing and motivating across age groups
- Tools to foster mutual understanding and team cohesion
Program Format:
A lively roundtable discussion moderated by an HR leader and featuring panelists representing each of the five generations. Panelists will reflect on how they view their own generation—and their perceptions of others—in the workplace.
Featured Generations:
- The Greatest Generation (Traditionalists) – Born 1927–1945
- Baby Boomers – Born 1946–1964
- Generation X – Born 1965–1978
- Millennials (Gen Y) – Born 1979–1996
- Generation Z – Born 1997–2017
Don’t miss this timely and insightful conversation designed to help HR professionals lead with empathy, bridge generational divides, and drive organizational success.
Agenda:
- 7:30 am: Registration & Continental Breakfast
- 8:00 - 9:15 am: Symposium & Roundtable Discussion
This program has been submitted for HRCI and SHRM credits.
OUR SPEAKERS:
Mark Blanchard, Co-Owner of T’s Restaurant Group
Mark is the Co-Owner of T’s Restaurant Group, known for its popular breakfast and brunch spots in Cranston, East Greenwich, and Narragansett. With a lifelong career in the restaurant industry, Mark is passionate about building inclusive teams and fostering a strong, community-driven workplace culture.
Outside of work, he enjoys golfing, spending time with his family, and has a particular love for Ford F-150s and healthy living.
Blaise Fanion, Student at Roger Williams University
Blaise Fanion is a business major at Roger Williams University and the CEO and Co-Owner of B.T. Details, a premium car detailing company serving Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
With three years of successful entrepreneurship under his belt, Blaise has built a strong following through his commitment to quality and service. His deep-rooted passion for cars extends beyond detailing—he is currently learning to become a mechanic and enjoys collecting specialty vehicles, with Porsche topping his list of favorites.
Moses Fortes, Business Performance Advisor, Insperity
Moses Fortes is a Business Performance Advisor at Insperity in Providence, where he helps businesses grow by building strong HR practices and vibrant workplace cultures.
Born and raised in Pawtucket, Moses comes from a small business family, which fuels his passion for supporting entrepreneurs. He brings a deep understanding of HR compliance, benefits management, and strategic planning, while also staying active in the community through his work with Central Falls Youth Power Group, RISHRM, Providence Rotary, Kids Klub RI, and several local chambers.
Jim Hoyt, Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket
Jim Hoyt is the Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Pawtucket, RI, and a mission-driven, visionary leader with over two decades of C-suite experience.
Jim brings deep expertise in board development, governance, strategic planning, program design, training and development, coaching, consulting, and fundraising.
Throughout his career, Jim has led across all levels of organizational and program development, with a particular passion for professional development, institutional advancement, and cultivating leadership.
A Certified Sherpa Executive Coach and committed servant leader, Jim believes in leading by example and empowering others by placing them in roles where they can grow and thrive. He finds the greatest joy in helping staff, volunteers, and clients build their leadership skills and make a meaningful impact.
Keep the conversation going, join us at our upcoming programs.
RI SHRM PROGRAMS
Thank you to our Event Sponsor!
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Stef Nelson at rishrmsponsorship@gmail.com.
