U. lecturer talks of spiritual values at work

Robbin Derry, a senior legal studies lecturer, discussed the pros and cons of bringing spiritual values to the workplace during a speech Wednesday afternoon at the Newman Center. Derry, who left her own church 15 years ago, criticized corporations for discouraging official discussions of ethics. "Much of the corporate world tends to be amoral at best," Derry said. Eric Tomlinson, a University alumnus, countered by asking Derry if the church can truly understand morality since it relies on donations, and not production, for its survival. Derry went on to discuss whether even basic ethics are practiced in the professional world. She said that if employers created a spiritual environment at work it would be easier for people to be ethical. "What's really important is that we not measure success by a grade that we get or our net worth, if it means cheating," said College sophomore and Newman Center Vice President Jeremy Chiappetta. Derry presented a number of questions that she believes "don't get asked" by either the religious or business communities to her audience of 20 University students, employees and community members of various faiths. "Is it appropriate for people to bring their religious values into the workplace? . . . Is it appropriate for people to leave their religious values at home [when they go to work]?" she said. Derry was well-received by her audience. "The questions raised were really good . . . . She wasn't preaching to you," said Wharton freshman Shiron Bell. The program was part of a series of educational and social events the Newman Center is sponsoring in honor of its 100th anniversary. Timothy Harrington, a University medical student, founded the Newman Club as a meeting place for Catholic students in 1893.