Social health and connection are important parts of any employee’s experience in the workplace. Employees who are connected to others feel more welcome to bring their full, authentic selves to work, and that helps create a warm and inclusive workplace. One way the the University supports increased employee engagement, connection, and satisfaction is through Employee Resource Groups.
Employee Resource Groups
Employee Resource Groups, or ERGs, are employee-led and facilitated groups based on a shared identity or role. ERGs provide support and connection, advance personal and professional development for participants, and contribute to a greater sense of belonging to the University community. ERGs provide an informal welcome to new employees, and offer networking and mentoring benefits to all employees. They can even provide a resource to UM leadership regarding employee interests, needs, and policies.
Guiding Principles
- Participation is always voluntary.
- All UM ERGs are open to all employees.
- ERGs create a warm and welcoming space for employees who share an identity or role to come together and support each other personally and professionally.
ERGs at UM
Some employee resource groups have a long and distinguished history at UM, others are newly formed. Any employee interested in starting an ERG can reach out to Roger Davis, Jessica Hughes, or Lynn Wilkins for support and assistance.
Black Faculty and Staff Organization. Established in 1982, the BFSO addresses issues and concerns unique to—and contributes to a climate that is conducive to the well-being and professional development of—the university’s Black faculty and staff. Please contact bfso@olemiss.edu for more information.
Caregiver Resource Network. Many employees care for a loved one who is elderly, ill, or living with a disability. Caregiving can be both a rewarding experience and a stressful, isolating one. The Caregiver Resource Network (CRN) helps caregiving employees connect with others who understand the experience and area resources that can help. Contact Lynn Wilkins for more information and join the listserv here.
Hispanic Faculty and Staff Organization. Through advocacy, support, and education, the Hispanic Faculty and Staff Organization (HFSO) works to unify, develop, and strengthen our campus community. Our goal is to establish safe spaces for University of Mississippi faculty and staff who are connected to the Latino, Hispanic, and Latinx communities. For more information, please contact Melissa King at mrk@olemiss.edu.
Men of Color Network. Coming soon! The Men of Color Network (MOCN) will provide faculty, staff, and students of color with a network of support for self-care, advocacy, professional development, and support.
Parent Resource Network. The Parent Resource Network (PRN) works to support UM employees with parenting responsibilities by creating a space to build relationships and share knowledge about child-friendly events, community resources, and helpful advice. The group will support employees with a variety of parenting responsibilities; all are welcome. Contact Lynn Wilkins for more information and join the listserv here.
Women of Color Network. The Women of Color Network (WOCN) creates engaging opportunities for networking, professional development, mentorship, and community engagement with a specific focus on resources, empowerment, and community support. The University of Mississippi embraces its public flagship mission of inspiring and educating our diverse and vibrant community where all individuals are able to intellectually, socially, and culturally thrive through transformative experiences on our campus and beyond. For more information, contact Jazmine Kelly at jdkelle1@olemiss.edu.
Young Professionals Network (off-campus). Young Professionals of Oxford (YPO) is a networking organization of active, ambitious young professionals in the Oxford/Lafayette County area — including faculty and staff at the University. YPO is a place for next generation leaders and change agents to share their big ideas, test their hunches, and participate in dynamic conversations with a group of professionals who are passionate about building better places to live and work. Develop business relationships, share valuable information and establish lifelong friendships. YPO organizes monthly social networking events and other events to promote professional development, philanthropy, and community support. Find out more at the YPO website.