Building Community Through Employee Resource Groups at UMB
Building Community Through Employee Resource Groups at UMB
At the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), we genuinely care about our employees’ well-being and cultivating a workplace culture grounded in our Core Values: Respect and Integrity, Well-Being and Sustainability, Equity and Justice, and Innovation and Discovery.
To further strengthen our inclusive, innovative, and engaged workforce, we are proud to introduce a formal central Employee Resource Group (ERG) Program that engages faculty and staff across the university who share common interests, backgrounds, or experiences.
This initiative supports UMB’s Strategic Plan, particularly:
- Theme 1: Accountability and Integration of Core Values
- Theme 3: University Culture, Engagement, and Belonging
By formalizing the creation, renewal, and funding of ERGs, we are not only supporting employee growth but also driving organizational success.
What are ERGs?
Employee Resource Groups are voluntary, employee-led groups that foster professional development, inclusion, and organizational growth.
ERGs can provide opportunities for community building, knowledge sharing, networking, mentoring, support, and collaboration. These groups unite faculty and staff around shared interests, identities, or experiences fostering a more inclusive and engaged workplace.
Examples of past ERGs include Stonewall Pride and Unidos.
Each ERG:
- Must include members from at least two different schools or administrative units
- Welcome all UMB employees as members and to participate in events and activities
- Receives administrative support and funding from the Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (OEDI)
- Will support and abide by the UMB Notice of Nondiscrimination policy(UMB Policy VI-1.00(c)
Get Involved
If you are interested in joining an existing group or starting a new one, we invite you to be part of this exciting program. ERGs are a meaningful way to build relationships, influence positive changes, and enhance your experience at UMB.
For more information or assistance, please contact:
Reetta Gach, Director of Programs
reetta.gach@umaryland.edu