KU News Release

Experts to present strategies for optimizing the four-generation workforce

LAWRENCE — Karen Cox and Susan R. Lacey will discuss strategies that help business leaders create successful organizational cultures at their upcoming workshop, “Unleashing the Power of a Four-Generation Workforce.” The event will take place Friday, March 13, at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kan.

Cox and Lacey have spent the past eight years researching and publishing studies used by organizations across the country to improve work environments. As part of their project, Cox and Lacey investigated the emerging four-generation workforce, an issue of increasing importance for national and global organizations.

According to Cox and Lacey, the four generations — matures, baby boomers, Gen X and Gen Y — have different experiences, values, ideas, attitudes, motivations, habits, expectations, ways of getting things done and communication styles. The generational differences affect team building, recruiting, commitment, productivity and change management.

The program is sponsored by KU HealthPartners Inc. and co-sponsored by St. Luke’s Hospital. It is the first in the Eisenbise Executive Development Series, made possible by a contribution from Mary Anne Eisenbise, former director of nursing at the KU Hospital.

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