Employee resource groups launch across JHU

In response to growing interest from faculty and staff across the university to connect and learn from each other, Johns Hopkins is launching employee resource groups for all faculty and staff. The ERGs aim to create an inclusive work environment that encourages the engagement of diverse views and experiences.

Human Resources and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion officially approved the formation of four ERGs this year and are also supporting the long-standing Black Faculty and Staff Association.

"This partnership between our two teams bringing these vital groups to our university is exciting for our community," says Meredith Stewart, vice president and chief human resources officer.

Adds Alisha Knight, acting chief diversity officer, "We have put together a structure and resources to support these groups, allowing all faculty and staff to feel a sense of belonging, which is a vital part of who we are as a university community."

What is an ERG?

Employee resource groups, commonly referred to as ERGs, allow individuals with shared backgrounds or interests in a work environment to voluntarily connect and learn from each other. They create an inclusive work environment that encourages the engagement of diverse views and experiences. At JHU, each ERG's objectives and activities will contribute to creating an inclusive work environment with their membership and events open to all JHU faculty and staff.

How you can join an ERG and get involved

Visit the Employee Resource Groups webpage to learn more and see how you can get involved.

• APID, standing for Asian Pacific Islander Desi, was created to give voice to, and support employees of, East Asian, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Islander descent. Contact the group at APID@jh.edu.

• The Jewish Faculty and Staff Association, or JFSA, seeks to provide a forum for networking, learning, and giving voice to Jewish experiences as seen through the lens of Jewish culture and identity. Contact the group at JFSA@jh.edu.

• PRISM, which stands for pride, raising awareness, involvement, support, and mentoring, seeks to create an inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies. Contact the group at PRISM@jh.edu.

• JHU Veterans embraces current JHU employee veterans while supporting the creation of an inclusive work environment through veteran shared experiences. See how you can join the group's upcoming Veterans Day Celebration. Contact the group at Veterans-ERG@jh.edu.

• The Black Faculty and Staff Association, or BFSA, works to create an inclusive environment for Black employees and allies at JHU and partners with the community to build and promote inclusivity. It is currently electing new leaders and looking for candidates. Contact the group at bfsa@jhu.edu or visit the BFSA website.

How to form a new ERG

All JHU employees have the opportunity to form an ERG, and interested groups may work with HR and ODI to identify co-leads and an executive sponsor and develop a charter for approval. Learn more on the ERG webpage.