Kelly, This is a tough situation. You didn't say anything about whether you've spoken to the nerd guy. The reason I mention it is if you did anything about the situation it should have to be with his knowledge. He may prefer to leave the situation alone for fear he would be fired/demoted if attention is given to the unfair treatment. If the nerd guy welcomes the help then you have to decide what is the right thing to do. As you mention, any action could come back on you. That's often the issue with whistleblowing. How far are we willing to go to improve the lives of others. If you speak to the nerd guy and get the green light and his gratitude for even thinking about helping him, then I would discuss it with a few coworkers and see if they would back you up -- not take action specifically. That would fall on your shoulders. If it were me, I'd go through these steps, unless the nerd guy asks me not to do anything, and make an informal report to HR mainly to feel them out about what can (should) and should not be done and how to handle it. You could preface your remarks by saying this isn't a formal complaint. It's just a question about company HR policies, that is, what to do when you think an employee is being bullied. If you get the vibe that HR doesn't care then you have to decide whether to risk your job to right a wrong. Only you can answer that. Good luck!

Yes, good will meaning the student who gives the gift expects nothing in return (i.e., higher grade). Otherwise, there may be the appearance that something is expected in return for the gift -- i.e., favored treatment.

Lornah, This is a good explanation how the mentoring skills discussed in my blog can apply to other ares such as the leadership development of students. It's nice to read that those skills are being used in your practice. Steve

Lawanda, These are great points and crystallizes some of the problems with capitalism today. I don't know if it's possible, but there needs to be a re-commitment to serve the common good. In other words, taking actions which benefit society as a whole, not private individuals and selected sections of society. Steve

Wanda, very well said.

S. Fowler, you are absolutely correct. Ghosting runs both ways. In some respects it's worth when an employer does it because they have an obligation to treat applicants with respect. Your situation seems highly improper. I'm sorry you had to endure the pain of your experience.

Gregory, Good points about bipolar disorder. I should add that most bipolar employees do very well in the workplace and should be respected by all coworkers.

Simon, Thanks for your comments on workplace ethics. It is more important today than ever before.

Marie, I wish I had better information for you. You can contact an labor lawyer and get some sound advice. Short of that the only thing to do is talk to the HR department. That is, of course, risky from a job perspective. I'd advise speaking to a lawyer. Find out what your options are. Obviously, what they're doing is unethical but it doesn't make it illegal.

Evelyn, Thanks for those thoughts.

Regina, thank you for your excellent comments about what makes for an ethical culture. Very well said!

Kristen, that's a smart choice as responsibility as a corporate entity may be an indicator of being responsible towards employees.

Thanks!