To address civility in the workplace, Unitil has sought to empower its employees in multiple ways. In recent years, the company has invested in trainings for current and future leaders through an internal program called Unitil University.
The training focuses specifically on developing effective communication and leadership. Employees cultivate the skills and confidence needed to navigate difficult conversations and support their teams through challenges. During the program, employees learn about emotional intelligence, how to address conflicts constructively and how to lead with empathy. A key takeaway has been that active listening and peer coaching don’t always come naturally.
Unitil has also supported the creation of various employee resource groups (ERGs) that seek to create an environment of belonging and provide peer-to-peer support within the company. A primary goal of these groups has been to engage with members and the wider company through a variety of inclusive activities and events.
In 2024, some of these ERGs provided their own leadership training focusing on similar topics to Unitil University, and in 2025, the ERGs have been working to incorporate practicing active listening and peer coaching into day-to-day interactions to develop it as a skill for all employees. It’s been found that training does not just benefit those attending — it’s advantageous for their peers and teams as well.
At quarterly recognition meetings, employees have the opportunity to give peer recognition and appreciation. Notes of gratitude for great work and positive attitudes are also shared across various internal platforms. It’s now commonplace to hear comments about peers who always have helpful demeanors no matter the request, or stories of people going above and beyond to support others. Not only do these recognitions showcase the great work of individuals as well as a certain camaraderie, but they serve as a reminder that our actions, whether positive or negative, have an impact on our peers.
In 2024, human resources and the ERGs worked diligently to bring a new mentoring program to life. Now entering its second year, it’s proven to be a great success. The volunteer program pairs employees who have offered to be mentors with employees looking to work with a mentor. The pairing process is performed with intention by human resources considering each individual’s strengths, knowledge and goals.
Mentorship provides guidance on career development and support through anything a mentee is comfortable sharing. Benefits aren’t solely for the mentee though; it’s a great opportunity to connect and network for both employees while knowledge-sharing and applying active listening.
Without addressing civility in the workplace directly, Unitil has managed to foster an environment where civility is encouraged and celebrated by investing in its employees, recognizing efforts, encouraging positive attitudes, and providing leaders with the necessary tools to communicate effectively, manage conflict and coach peers.
Maintaining civility in the workplace requires ongoing attention. The topic is continuously on ERG agendas, and for 2025 the groups are combining efforts in hopes of generating even more progress.
As council Unitil’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Council (DEIB), Danielle Falagan feels a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. Additionally, Danielle serves as a steering committee member of the Network of Women ERG, where the goal is to empower and support women in the company and local community. In her day-to-day role, she serves as Unitil’s accounts payable supervisor. Beyond her work commitments Danielle hosts a podcast and enjoys spending time outside.
Britt Borgal began her career in finance but has since transitioned to being a marketing and communications specialist at Unitil. She is vice chair of Unitil’s DEIB Council and a steering committee member of the Network of Women ERG, where she puts her passion into action by volunteering her time toward initiatives centering women-empowerment, diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging at Unitil. Outside of work, you’ll find Britt in a cycling class, Pilates class, or playing pickleball.
