How Employee Resource Groups Are Redefining Campus Community and Belonging

Why Employee Resource Groups Matter More Than Ever

In an environment of dwindling budgets and complex political landscapes, colleges and universities face mounting pressure to maintain employee morale and retention. Enter Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)—a powerful solution designed to foster community, connection, and a culture of belonging among faculty and staff.

Transforming Campus Culture with ERGs

At institutions like Duke University, the implementation of structured ERGs is gaining traction. This month, Duke will host a virtual ERG information fair, providing employees an opportunity to explore different groups, foster connections, and even kick-start new initiatives. Built around a framework that includes charters, executive sponsors, and advisory councils, these groups receive vital support from Human Resources, which offers everything from templates to funding for activities.

“We launched several new ERGs in the past year, which have become invaluable for connection and support,” said Paul Grantham, Assistant Vice President for Work Culture and Communication Services at Duke. “It's also incredibly rewarding to see emerging leaders develop within these groups.”

Inclusive Opportunities for All Voices

Similarly, at Penn State University, ERGs have reshaped community dynamics since their launch in 2023. The rapid adoption of groups focused on caregiving, veterans, LGBTQIA+, and sustainability illustrates a commitment to inclusivity and support. The caregiver network, Penn State Cares, is particularly poignant—all stemming from one employee’s desire to create a safer space for shared experiences and emotional support.

Teresa McCloskey, co-founder of this network, summarized the ethos of ERGs beautifully, stating: “What was the point of living through it if I can’t reach behind me and help the next person coming through?” The collectivity of personal narratives becomes a resource, a lifeline for many.

A Model for Success

Emerging best practices among successful ERGs highlight the essence of community empowerment. Institutions like Duke and Penn State provide a scaffold for employee leadership while encouraging grassroots initiatives. Here are a few key strategies:

• Empower Employee Leadership: By pairing ERGs with executive sponsors, institutions support employee-run groups, which can flourish amid staff changes.
• Accessible On-Ramps: Offering virtual channels, open forums, and frequent informal meetups ensures inclusivity for all employees, including those working remotely.
• Align with Institutional Goals: Effective ERGs tie their purpose to the university’s mission, promoting cohesion and relevance.
• Valuing Lived Experience: ERGs transform personal experiences into shared tools and knowledge that enhance workplace well-being and efficiency.

Building a Supportive Community

At Binghamton University, employees gather through informal spaces, making connections with ease. Initiatives like coffee walks and family-friendly picnics celebrate diversity while signaling a commitment to engagement and inclusion. Meanwhile, Elon University’s veterans ERG has utilized its platform to influence policy and enhance the community by organizing events that cater specifically to veterans and connecting them with essential resources.

Looking Ahead: The Future of ERGs

As the impact of ERGs ripples through various campuses, it is clear that they represent much more than just social clubs; they offer a lifeline and a structured path toward a more inclusive culture where every employee feels seen and valued. As one member put it aptly, “Finding the queer group has been revolutionary in my life, and it has brought so many amazing changes and positive aspects.”

In a time where the institutional focus is on retention and well-being, investing in ERGs is not merely an option—it's a necessity for fostering a connected, engaged workforce. These groups signal that building community is essential work, forming a critical part of an institution’s fabric that encourages collaboration, support, and innovation.