Civility in Action: Leading with Respect at UC Davis

by Kimberly McLennan, Trainer
August 25, 2025

Quick Summary

Roxana Carabajal, Interim Employee Relations Director, Employee Labor and Relations, highlights how everyday acts of respect and clear communication foster a more civil, inclusive, and supportive workplace at UC Davis.

Civility in Action: Leading with Respect at UC Davis

Civility is a cornerstone of a respectful, inclusive, and productive work environment, and at UC Davis, it’s something we strive to practice every day. This month, we highlight insights from Roxana Carabajal, Interim Employee Relations Director, Employee Labor and Relations, who shares what civility means to her and how we can all help foster a culture of kindness, professionalism, and trust, with an accompanying video, highlighting communication best practices, support systems, and clear reporting processes.

Check out the video here!

What does civility in the workplace mean to you?

“Civility in the workplace means treating everyone-employees, colleagues, patients, and others with respect, dignity, and professionalism, even during times of stress or disagreement,” says Roxana.

“It’s essential for fostering inclusivity and trust. It ensures that everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute to our overall success.”

How should employees address incivility?

“Stay calm and respectful. If appropriate, approach the person privately and use ‘I’ statements like ‘I felt uncomfortable when…’ to express how the behavior affected you,” Roxana advises.

Focus on impact, not blame
If direct communication isn’t safe, contact a supervisor, Employee Labor Relations, or the UC Davis Ombuds Office

Tips for Respectful Virtual Communication

With remote and hybrid work still in place, civility extends into virtual spaces. Roxana recommends:

Be on time and prepared for meetings
Use clear and polite language in emails and chats
Mute your mic when not speaking
Acknowledge others’ contributions
Watch your tone in written messages
Avoid messaging after hours unless it’s urgent

Small Acts, Big Impact

“Simple gestures like greeting coworkers, saying thank you, or actively listening can build a positive work environment,” Roxana says.

“These small acts reduce stress and boost morale, creating a ripple effect of respect.”

Daily Practices to Promote Civility

Practice active listening
Give compliments or express appreciation
Recognize and credit others’ work
Assume positive intent
Include all voices in discussions
Be a role model for respectful behavior, especially during stressful times

What to Do If You Witness or Experience Incivility

“Always prioritize your safety,” Roxana emphasizes. “If you feel safe, speak to the individual respectfully. If that doesn’t work, document the incident and report it.”