The Office of Diversity and Inclusion is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion
as guiding principles. One key way is by supporting the creation of affinity groups on campus with the support of the Office of the Provost and the Office of the Associate Provost
of Faculty Affairs.
Affinity groups are formed around a shared identity or common goal to build community among members of non-dominant identities
and to foster inclusion and a sense of belonging at the university.
These groups can play an important role in fostering an inclusive campus environment, including contributing to efforts to:
Each affinity group determines its own scope and priorities. To receive support and recognition from the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, a group should be:
Affinity groups are not part of the formal governance structure (i.e., not a committee), but rather are sites of community engagement and formation. Current recognized affinity groups are below.
If you are interested in starting an affinity group, please contact Dr. Tiffany Townsend at ODI@augusta.edu to discuss the needs, viability, potential scope, and next steps.
The Black Faculty & Staff Association (BFSA) of Augusta University was chartered May 1, 2019 to build a sense of community; to advocate for the recruitment,
retention, and advancement of Black faculty, staff, and students; and to partner with
the CSRA community to positively affect the lives of Black people in the region. In
the spirit of Augusta University’s commitment to inclusivity, we have established an organization to advance and defend “diversity, equality,
fairness, impartiality, and respect” on campus and in the CSRA.
We are firm in our commitment to ensure that the University is aware of and responsive
to the needs of the Black faculty, staff, and students and to ensure that the Black
community is equitably represented at Augusta University.
The BFSA of AU shall exist:
In an effort to promote inclusion and belonging among Augusta University faculty, ODI and the Augusta University Faculty Club have formed a partnership in order to increase sense of belonging on campus. Currently, the partnership focuses on promoting and fostering inclusive social events. See what the Faculty Club has for you.
The LGBTQ FSA of Augusta University was charted March 17th, 2021 in effort to provide
for solidarity and fellowship in the community of LGBTQ staff and Faculty through
education, mental health, outreach, advocacy, inclusivity, healthcare and diversity
work. As well as to partner with the CSRA community. In the spirit of Augusta University’s
commitment to inclusivity, we have established an organization to advance and defend
“diversity, equality, fairness, impartiality, and respect”.
Our goal is to create a collaborative community for Women of Color in Leadership and aspiring leaders to fellowship. Cultivate ideas and initiatives, and stimulate professional growth for the betterment of each other, AU Health, and Augusta University.
Leadership Team:
Dr. Kim Thompson
Email: kithompson@augusta.edu
Phone: 706-721-0312
Our goal is to provide a platform and encourage conversations for men at all career levels who work in healthcare to meet, discuss, mentor, and encourage each other. We will strive to facilitate relationships and support all men of color who provide services to the patients of AU Health.
Leadership Team:
Jared Bing
Email: jabing@augusta.edu
Phone: 706-721-9273
Our goal is to provide inclusive support and build community and a greater connection for employees who are parents of children who are LGBTQ+. We want to help create a better work environment for our employees and provide improved healthcare for all patients. We would love to develop personal and professional relationships and promote a positive work environment for everyone.
Leadership Team:
Kerrie Harmon, Nurse Manager
Email: kharmon@augusta.edu
Phone: 706-721-1317
Faculty and staff are welcome to join University or AU Health groups, depending on their interest.
