Code of Conduct

Our Commitment

The CEO VIP Day Summit 2025, presented by Northwestern Mutual and organized in partnership with GOAT University, is dedicated to providing a harassment-free, inclusive, and professional experience for all attendees, speakers, sponsors, and staff. We are committed to fostering an environment where vision meets capital and leaders build legacies through respectful collaboration, meaningful networking, and transformative learning.

Our Values

Expected Behavior

All attendees are expected to:

• •Be Respectful: Treat all participants with dignity and courtesy, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, national origin, or any other characteristic.
• •Communicate Professionally: Use inclusive language and maintain professional standards in all interactions, whether in person or online.
• •Practice Active Listening: Engage thoughtfully with speakers and fellow attendees, allowing everyone the opportunity to contribute.
• •Honor Confidentiality: Respect the privacy of personal stories and business information shared during sessions and conversations.
• •Follow Event Guidelines: Adhere to all instructions from event staff, venue rules, and scheduled programming.
• •Support Fellow Attendees: Foster a collaborative environment by offering encouragement and constructive feedback.
• •Network Authentically: Build genuine connections focused on mutual value rather than aggressive self-promotion.
• •Be Present: Minimize distractions and engage fully in sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities.

Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated:

• ✗Harassment: Including but not limited to offensive comments, inappropriate questions, unwelcome advances, stalking, intimidation, or sustained disruption of presentations.
• ✗Discrimination: Prejudicial treatment or negative behavior based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation.
• ✗Inappropriate Content: Sharing or displaying sexually explicit, violent, or otherwise offensive images, videos, or materials.
• ✗Unauthorized Recording: Photography, video, or audio recording without explicit consent from subjects and event organizers.
• ✗Aggressive Solicitation: Unwanted promotion of products, services, or business opportunities that disrupts the event experience.
• ✗Disruptive Behavior: Talking over speakers, interrupting presentations, or engaging in activities that detract from others' experiences.
• ✗Intoxication: Being under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances to the point of impairment.
• ✗Theft or Vandalism: Taking property that doesn't belong to you or damaging event materials or venue property.
• ✗False Representation: Misrepresenting your identity, credentials, or affiliations to gain access or advantage.
• ✗Violation of Venue Policies: Disregarding safety regulations, smoking policies, or other rules established by the event venue.

Photography and Media Conduct

Special considerations for photography and media at the event:

• Official event photographers and videographers will be clearly identified
• Always ask permission before photographing or recording individuals in close-up or candid situations
• Respect "no photo" requests from any attendee
• Do not photograph or record sensitive business information displayed on screens or documents
• Day 2 professional content creation sessions require full cooperation and consent from participating attendees
• Tag the event appropriately when sharing content on social media: #CEOVIPDaySummit2025

Networking Guidelines

To ensure productive and respectful networking:

• Focus on building authentic relationships rather than immediate transactions
• Exchange business cards or contact information only when mutually agreed
• Follow up on connections made at the event in a professional, non-intrusive manner
• Respect boundaries if someone declines further contact or business discussions
• Do not add attendees to mailing lists or marketing campaigns without explicit permission
• Honor confidentiality agreements and non-disclosure expectations

Reporting Violations

If you experience or witness behavior that violates this Code of Conduct:

All reports will be handled with discretion and confidentiality. We take all complaints seriously and will investigate promptly. You will not face retaliation for making a good-faith report.

Enforcement and Consequences

Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in:

• Warning: A formal notice that behavior is unacceptable and must cease immediately
• Temporary Removal: Exclusion from specific sessions or activities
• Expulsion: Immediate removal from the event without refund
• Ban: Prohibition from attending future events organized by CEO VIP Day Summit or GOAT University
• Legal Action: Involvement of law enforcement for serious violations including assault, theft, or threats

Event organizers have sole discretion in determining appropriate consequences. Decisions are final and not subject to appeal.

Scope of Application

This Code of Conduct applies to all event-related spaces and activities, including:

• All official event sessions, workshops, and activities
• Networking breaks, meals, and social events
• Event-related online platforms and social media
• Communications with other attendees before, during, and after the event
• Venue common areas during event hours
• Unofficial gatherings or after-parties attended by event participants

Accessibility and Inclusion

We are committed to making the CEO VIP Day Summit accessible to all attendees:

• If you require accommodations for a disability, please contact us at least 14 days before the event
• Be considerate of attendees with different abilities and needs
• Use inclusive language and avoid assumptions about others
• Respect service animals and accessibility equipment
• Be mindful of scent sensitivities by avoiding strong fragrances

Health and Safety

Your health and safety are paramount. Please comply with all venue safety regulations, emergency procedures, and any health protocols implemented by event organizers. If you feel unwell, please stay home or return to your accommodation. We may implement additional health measures based on public health guidance at the time of the event.

Sponsor and Partner Conduct

Northwestern Mutual, GOAT University, and all event sponsors are expected to uphold this Code of Conduct. Sponsor interactions should be professional, respectful, and focused on providing value to attendees rather than aggressive sales tactics.

Acknowledgment

By registering for and attending the CEO VIP Day Summit 2025, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Your participation signifies your commitment to creating a positive, professional, and transformative experience for all attendees.

Questions and Clarifications

If you have questions about this Code of Conduct or need clarification on any provision, please contact: