The offices of equity and inclusion and human resources will be launching UMass employee resource groups in the spring 2020 semester. These groups will provide UMass staff and faculty with resources for professional development, networking and mentorship, while also promoting the recruitment, retention and advancement of employees who are underrepresented in our community.
All faculty and staff who are interested in learning more about these groups are invited to attend the campus-wide launch event on Tuesday, Feb. 4, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., in the Campus Center Auditorium. Supervisors are strongly encouraged to provide release time for employees, both for this launch event, and for related programming throughout the year.
RSVPs are not required -- but requested -- using this form. You may also use the form to indicate your interest specific groups and to suggest specific topics for professional development, workshops or events that you would like the groups to provide.
The initial five employee resource groups launching this academic year are:
UMass Abilities Network: Focused on promoting an environment that is open and inclusive for all individuals across the continuum of ability, through engagement, education and advocacy. The group also focuses on ways to support the recruitment, retention and advancement of employees experiencing disabilities.
UMass Faculty and Staff of Color Network: Working to foster connections and develop community for employees from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups at UMass Amherst and promoting an inclusive work environment.
UMass International Staff/Faculty Network: Designed to build connections, assist in the transition to the university and promote a community and working environment for both new arrivals and long-time residents of the U.S., which is both welcoming and nurturing.
UMass LGBTQIA+ Network: Created to cultivate a more welcoming and respectful campus community for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer, intersex and asexual individuals and their allies, with a primary focus on the retention, advancement and edification of UMass Amherst staff and faculty.
UMass Veterans Network: Working to make UMass Amherst a workplace of choice for veterans, reservists and guardsmen, while fostering a community to support and encourage networking, career development and mentorship.
In addition to the groups launching this academic year, the University Women's Network, established in 1981, continues to serve UMass and Five College faculty and staff.