How McKesson’s Arc ERG Celebrates Diversity to Empower Employees

Unity in Diversity: The Arc ERG's Role at McKesson

At McKesson, the embrace of diversity is not merely a corporate policy; it’s a lived experience that resonates throughout its organizational culture. The Arc Employee Resource Group (ERG) exemplifies this ethos by creating an inclusive environment for all employees, allowing them to honor their differences while celebrating their common humanity. This vibrant initiative reflects a commitment to not only facilitate conversations around diversity but also foster relationships that can drive innovation and enhance patient care across all levels of the organization.

A Growing Community of Support

Among the ambassadors of this mission are Malisa Peters and Sadine Dalberry-Whyte, two employees whose participation in Arc not only propels their professional advancement but also enriches the lives of colleagues and the communities they serve. Malisa, a Specialty Pod Lead at CoverMyMeds, has witnessed firsthand how Arc has evolved from a simple Affinity Council into a robust cultural institution within McKesson. Her journey provides insight into the profound impact that ERGs can have on employee engagement and workplace culture.

Every event Malisa helps organize, such as the upcoming African drumming demonstration, is more than mere entertainment—it is an expression of identity that promotes understanding between diverse cultures. She emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for employees to express their authentic selves, stating, “Through Arc, we want employees to know this is a place where they can be safely celebrated for being themselves and bring forward who they genuinely are.” This mantra reinforces the group’s commitment to fostering an environment where every voice is welcomed and appreciated.

Building Bridges and Enhancing Patient Care

Sadine Dalberry-Whyte, also influenced by her engagement with Arc, aims to connect employees across various ERGs, thus leveraging the collective strength of their diversity. As the Senior Manager at INVIVA, she coordinates patient appointments critical for chronic disease care and recognizes that a better understanding of cultural intersections enhances service delivery. By advocating that “if employees aren’t sure where they fit in, Arc can provide them with that home,” Sadine highlights the importance of inclusion in healthcare, where understanding patients’ backgrounds can lead to better treatment outcomes.

Challenging the Status Quo

These stories exemplify the power of ERGs to not only foster a sense of belonging within the workplace but to also challenge conventional thinking around employee engagement. In a sector where empathy and connection matter profoundly—healthcare—the lessons learned from Arc’s initiatives can serve as a model to reshape how businesses approach diversity and inclusion.

Both Malisa and Sadine agree that the strength of the Arc ERG lies not just in celebrating differences but in harnessing them to advocate for equitable access and opportunities. As they reflect on their journeys, they instill a sense of urgency in encouraging more companies to follow suit: “Together, we are a greater collective force.” The Arc ERG's initiatives push against the status quo, inspiring other organizations to recognize that diversity isn’t an add-on; it’s a core component driving success.

Why Diversity Matters More Than Ever

As the landscape of the healthcare industry continues to change, the importance of fostering inclusive environments becomes more apparent. When companies like McKesson place emphasis on initiatives such as the Arc ERG, they not only enhance employee satisfaction and retention but also prepare themselves to meet diverse patient needs more effectively. With a mission that uplifts equity, opportunity, and access for all, McKesson sets a precedent that others in the industry should aspire to achieve.

Reflecting on the transformative power of the Arc ERG, it’s clear that honoring our common unity is essential in creating a thriving workplace and positively impacting society at large. The stories of employees like Malisa and Sadine serve as reminders that through collective strength, empathy, and active listening, we can foster a culture that empowers everyone.