MyVU

New employee affinity groups added for women and working moms, mid-career professionals

The Office for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion will launch two new Employee Affinity Groups as part of an ongoing initiative to support university employees.

Employee Affinity Groups, or EAGs, are created and facilitated by employees around interests, backgrounds, identities and common bonds to help foster a positive work environment at Vanderbilt and support the university’s values specific to diversity, inclusion and campus engagement. These new groups will expand resources and provide Vanderbilt employees with more spaces to build community and a sense of belonging.

Mid-career Professionals

Employees with seven to 15 years of service at Vanderbilt or in higher education are encouraged to join.

This group welcomes professionals who are seven to 15 years into their career, as well as allies. Meetings will engage in professional development, social events and leadership opportunities and cover a range of topics that address how employees can push their established careers to the next professional level. Mid-career Professionals will help employees set and reach their goals through a secure support system that fosters belonging, individuality and personal development.

The first meeting will take place on Thursday, Nov. 10, from 2 to 3 p.m. and will be joined by:

  • Stacey Bonner, well-being manager, Human Resources
  • Jolie Grace Wareham, executive projects coordinator, Office of the Chancellor
  • Krista Vaught, assistant director of Employee Learning and Engagement, Human Resources

Register here, or contact Jolie Grace Wareham for more information.

Women and Working Moms

Vanderbilt employees who identify as women and mothers are encouraged to join.

This group is a place for faculty and staff who identify as women and mothers and are seeking support and belonging in the fast-paced career space. The mission of the group is to offer a safe space to discuss and access resources, commune in fellowship, expand professional networks and strengthen social interactions.

The first meeting will take place on Monday, Nov. 14, from 2 to 3 p.m. and will be joined by:

  • Mia Clermont, employer relations specialist, Vanderbilt Career Center
  • Penny Baga, assistant director of employer relations, Vanderbilt Career Center
  • Lana Hefner, academic and educational support program coordinator, School of Engineering
  • Rory Dicker, director, Margaret Cuninggim Women’s Center

Register here, or contact Linzie Treadway for more information.

EAGs are open to all Vanderbilt employees, regardless of identity. Staff, faculty and postdoctoral scholars who identify as part of or have close affinity to these groups are encouraged to participate.