New Visual Identities for Employee Resource Groups at UC Davis Health

The Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) at UC Davis Health are essential to creating an inclusive, vibrant university community where all employees feel valued and are encouraged to contribute to their fullest potential.

As institutions that thrive on diversity and inclusion, universities benefit greatly from the existence of ERGs, which serve as support networks for underrepresented or historically marginalized groups. These groups provide a platform for employees to connect, share experiences, and advocate for common interests, thereby creating a more inclusive workplace culture.

The impact of ERGs on a university environment extends beyond individual support; they contribute to the broader institutional goals of equity and diversity. By promoting understanding and collaboration across different demographic groups, they help to break down barriers and create a more cohesive and supportive community. This sense of belonging, in turn, enhances employee engagement, satisfaction, and retention, which are critical factors in the overall success of the institution. By partnering the organization and employees, the organization becomes a more culturally aware institution to work for, and studies have shown that culturally aware companies have higher efficiency, patient outcomes (in clinical settings), and high profit margins.*

Driving positive change by influencing university policies and practices, ERGs can serve as valuable advisors to leadership, providing insights into the needs and concerns of diverse employee populations. Through initiatives such as workshops, mentoring programs, and cultural events, ERGs not only enrich the university's cultural fabric but also empower employees to contribute their unique perspectives and skills more effectively.

This year we are proud to announce we now have eight distinct ERGs at UC Davis Health.

The growth and presence of the ERGs has been outstanding the past two years. The ERG boards are full, the activities well attended, and the uplifting of voices and experiences truly celebrate diversity and inclusion.—Matthew St. Amant, Program Manager for UC Davis Health Employee Resource Groups

Under the leadership of Matthew St. Amant, Program Manager for UC Davis Health Employee Resource Groups, and the creative vision of the ERG Chairs, each group is now represented with a distinct graphic. We invite you to learn about the meaning behind each graphic below:

	This graphic representation of the African American Faculty and Staff Association (AAFSA) visually illustrates its all-encompassing mission to “Serve,” “Grow,” and “Connect.” The hand signifies its members’ service and philanthropic endeavors, both personal and professional, towards its cause. The tree and pathway symbolize the career growth and upward mobility that AAFSA provides through its programs. Additionally, the continent represents the African diaspora and strong cultural bond within the community.
	The Asian Pacific American Systemwide Alliance (APASA) graphic utilizes organic forms to lean into naturalistic imagery and bright colors. The sun represents the history and power of the community, while the arching tree and flowing water running through the hills signify the abundant resources provided by APASA.
	The DiversABILITY graphic visually encompasses the diverse spectrum of disabilities with the use of icons, ranging from physical and sensory to neurodivergent. Overlapping and connecting circles represent the support of the DiversABILITY community, standing in solidarity with each other. The figure at the forefront proudly holds the heart that illustrates found resources and community, while the shadow behind it signifies the invisible disabilities that often go unnoticed.
	Interwoven branches flow through the Interfaith and Intercultural (IFIC) graphic to represent shared values, overlapping commonalities, and intersectionality. The multi-colored leaves sprout from each branch to celebrate the beauty in diversity. The branches’ roots also signify the importance and honor of cultural traditions and ideals.
	The Latinx Staff and Faculty Association (LSFA) graphic visually represents the prosperity and support offered by LSFA. Inspired by facets of a sugar skull, bright pinks, oranges, greens and yellows encompass the joy and celebratory spirit of the community. In doing so, the uplifting hands and floral imagery signify resilience, optimism, and the ability to overcome adversity.
	The foundation of the Muslim Faculty and Staff Association (MFSA) graphic resembles an open, abstracted Qur’an. A geometric star mosaic rises from the holy book, signifying the illumination from knowledge. This visual representation embodies MFSA’s dedication to sharing resources and supporting staff and the larger community in their efforts towards personal and professional growth.
	The PRIDE graphic is designed to make the rainbow pride flag more inclusive by featuring colors that represent different marginalized groups in the LGBTQ community.
	The Veterans Employee Association (VEA) graphic includes the bald eagle, a national symbol of the strength and freedom in America. The red wing is an abstracted representation of the U.S. flag, while the gold stars embody the 6 branches of the U.S. military.

*Citation: Scott, K. A., Heathcote, L. C., Goldsmith, K., & Farquhar-Smith, P. (2020). Diversity and inclusion in healthcare: Building stronger organizations with better patient outcomes. *The Lancet*, *397*(10283), 160-169. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(20)32566-8.