Northwestern IT Staff Affinity Groups
In addition to University-wide staff affinity groups, Northwestern IT actively supports and encourages staff members to engage with the groups listed below. Together, these groups foster a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable community and support the organization’s overall Commitment Statement.
If you have additional affinity group ideas, the Northwestern IT Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee is excited to support you, provide guidance, and secure administrative support and the resources needed to succeed.
Black Professionals in IT
The organization cultivates a community centered around the shared experience of black professionals within Northwestern IT and the technology industry. The group strives to promote growth and create career pathways for Black professionals in IT by providing resources and support to members. It is also active in the Northwestern and Evanston communities. Please contact Maureen Knight-Burrell or Elizabeth Summers to learn more about the group and how to get involved. You may also be interested in learning more about Northwestern's Black Professionals Network.
Early Careers in Technology
For those starting their careers at Northwestern or new to the information technology field, consider connecting with our Early Careers in Technology group. The group provides resources, support, and knowledge to Northwestern IT staff, including a mentorship program. Please email earlycareers@northwestern.edu for more details.
SAGE IT (Sexuality and Gender Equality)
The group serves as a resource to Northwestern IT by furthering a culture of inclusion, promoting the professional development of LGBTQIA+ employees, and supporting the existing and future diverse workforce. The group offers a safe space where community members can discuss issues faced both on campus and beyond. Please contact Jonathan Diehl or Chris Fowler to learn more about the group and how to get involved. You may also be interested in learning more about Northwestern's Out Network.
Women in Technology
The organization focuses on the shared experience of women professionals within Northwestern IT and the technology industry. Its purpose is to help further Northwestern IT as a place of belonging and inclusion. The group works in partnership with the Big Ten Academic Alliance Women in Technology organization. Please contact Sarah Cross to learn more about the group and how to get involved.
Big Ten Academic Alliance Women in Technology
The Big Ten Academic Alliance Women in Technology (WIT) group gathers each month for coffee catch-ups open to anyone at Northwestern. If you are interested in joining, please contact Annie Speicher or Flora Deng. You may also be interested in learning more about the Association of Northwestern University Women.
For larger University initiatives and other affinity groups and task forces, please visit the University's Institutional Diversity and Inclusion website.
All University-sanctioned groups and activities must be open to all employees and may not discriminate against anyone on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by law in matters of admissions, employment, housing, or services or in the educational programs or activities it operates.
You can find the full University Non-Discrimination Statement on the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance website.