In the last of our seven-part Employee Resource Group (ERG) series, it’s time to showcase AbbVie Veterans. This dedicated and highly disciplined group has come together to support the careers, health and well-being of veterans and those who care for them – both at AbbVie and within our local communities. Get to know AbbVie Veterans better in an interview with five members who discuss the unique skills military personnel bring to the job, what they have gained from their service and the benefits of having a diverse team.
1. Why is the Veterans ERG so important?
Michelle Raine-Shepherd, manager, call planning/targeting and planning and Veterans chair: We all share a unique bond. We’ve either served or know someone who has served. It could be a caregiver or a family member, but as long as we’re supporting the same mission, it’s good. That bonds us.
Ryan Roman, associate director, medical program management and Veterans co-chair: It really brings a lot of what is missing in some veterans’ lives, especially the camaraderie. For example, we recently hosted an event with five veterans who had never met. Thirty seconds into the conversation, you would have guessed that they were best friends for years.
Chuck McDaniel, federal account executive and Veterans communications & marketing co-chair: It offers the opportunity for employees that have had similar life experiences to connect, share stories and even network. It is inspiring to see how members of our group mobilize when there is a need.
Monitra K. Gregory, clinical research associate II & Veterans member: As veterans, there’s an understood and natural desire to look out for each other.