Diversity & Inclusion

Affinity Groups

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:

  • foster inclusion and community through a support network of mentors, allies, and peers;
  • educate the broader campus community on a minority group’s perspectives and concerns;
  • recruit and retain members of minority groups and their allies;
  • and/or advocate for policies and programs to meet the needs of members of nondominant groups.

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:

  • as open as possible to all Augusta University employees (faculty, staff, and administrators) around the affinity topic or identity;
  • have a clear sense of purpose, including a mission statement that contributes to the larger university’s mission and core values;
  • have a public presence, such as a website;
  • and its meetings should be open. 

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 interested in establishing an affinity group at Augusta University, here are the necessary steps needed to create an affinity group on campus.

  1. Identify the focus of the affinity group.
    • Currently, AU has the Black Faculty & Staff Association, the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) Faculty & Staff Association, and a newly established First Generation Faculty & Staff Association.
    • Are you interested in creating an affinity group for Disability, Latinx, and/or Others?
  2. Identify key officers and other individuals interested in serving on the executive board of the affinity group.
    • Key officers may include Co-chairs, Secretary, Treasurer
  3. Develop the purpose of the group beyond the identity focus.
  4. Craft bylaws (and charter) for the affinity group.
  5. Submit requested materials via the form on the ODI website (click here).

 

Employee Affinity Group Bylaws Template

 

University Supported Groups:

Black Faculty & Staff Association

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:

    • To represent the interests of Black faculty and staff;
    • To promote the individual and collective well-being of Black faculty and staff;
    • To ensure and facilitate the development and advancement of Black faculty and staff;
    • To maintain an effective and positive relationship between the University and its Black constituency.

Faculty Club

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.

LGBTQ Faculty and Staff Association

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”.

AU Health Supported Groups:

Women of Color in Leadership

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

Men of Color in Healthcare

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

Parents of LGBTQ+ Children 

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.