Employee Resource Groups Update
Since July 2020, the Office of Equity and Inclusion has been leading the effort to establish statewide Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). This effort is aimed at providing employees with an enhanced sense of community, support opportunities to network with peers, promote a stronger sense of belonging, and the ability to experience mentorship opportunities.
We are in need of individuals that would like to serve as a chair for the Employees of Color ERG and the LGBTQIA+ ERG. The folx who were in these roles both accepted different positions outside of Minnesota State and we have not yet had anyone else from the groups volunteer to lead them. Can you please reach out within your networks to spread the word and encourage people to become a chair? If anyone is interested in this role, please have them reach out to me and I will set up a time to meet with them.
Status of the ERGs:
- First kickoff meetings held in Feb, 2021
- Both groups working on developing mission statements, vision statements, and goals
- Group members would like to meet virtually, monthly
Chair Role / Responsibilities (From the ERG Guidelines)
“The Chair shall be responsible for ensuring that MinnState ERG meetings are in alignment with the vision, mission and strategic direction of the MinnState ERG. They shall work closely with the secretary (if applicable) to establish meeting agendas and provide structure to the meetings. The Chair shall act as the facilitator of the meetings and address any issues raised by the MinnState ERG.”
Our office will work in an advisory role to help the ERGs become established and to provide support to realize their mission. Additional information on the Employee Resource Groups can be found on our website at https://minnstate.edu/system/equity/glossary.html.
Current ERGs available to join/participate in (sign up online here):
- Employees of Color ERG
- Womxn in Higher Education ERG
- LGBTQIA+ ERG
- Indigenous Men and Men of Color ERG
If you have questions, contact tarrence.robertson@minnstate.edu.