Laura Birk: Transforming Human Resources into a Force for Good

How New ERG Leaders at Duke Foster Community and Opportunity

Update Building Community Through Employee Resource Groups The recent appointments of Magaly Guerrero and Antonio Jones as leaders of Duke University School of Medicine’s Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)—¡DALHE! (Duke Advancing Latiné/Hispanic Excellence) and ME² (Motivate, Mentor, Educate & Empower)—highlight a shared vision of creating a thriving community within Duke. Both leaders emphasize the importance of belonging and connection in their new roles, geared towards supporting not just their respective groups but also the broader Duke employee community. Creating a Sense of Belonging Guerrero and Jones recognize that ERGs can transform the workplace into supportive environments. Guerrero describes ¡DALHE! as a welcoming space where colleagues connect beyond job titles, allowing everyone to embrace their full selves. This sentiment is echoed by Jones, who emphasizes that “everyone wants to belong to something,” be it a work group or a local club. ERGs offer another opportunity for employees to find connections in the workplace. Professional Development Opportunities Beyond community building, both ERGs focus on professional growth. ME² hosts monthly events that dive into various topics beneficial for its members, such as financial literacy and mental health. This ensures that employees remain aware of available resources and opportunities for advancement. Guerrero noted the importance of exposure to diverse roles across the institution, stating that witnessing colleagues’ accomplishments can inspire others to pursue similar paths. The Power of Mentorship Mentorship stands out as a transformative aspect of ERGs. Guerrero has personally benefited from mentorship at Duke, which provided essential support throughout her career. Both leaders agree that mentoring not only fosters individual development but also strengthens community ties within ERGs. By sharing experiences and guiding each other, members can facilitate growth—both professionally and personally. Current Trends and Future Opportunities As Duke continues to expand its ERGs, the focus will remain on nurturing a diverse and inclusive culture. Paul Grantham, from Duke Human Resources, reinforces the importance of ERGs, noting that these groups help to identify and support diverse leaders—vital for the institution's mission. With effective support structures, including financial backing and leadership training, there’s a promising outlook for the future of employee engagement at Duke. The journey of Guerrero and Jones as new leaders establishes a clear blueprint for fostering community and professional development through ERGs, allowing employees to thrive in a supportive environment.