Embracing diversity and incorporating it into the overall culture of a company has many proven benefits. When employees of diverse backgrounds work together and approach challenges from more than one perspective, they will often find a more creative solution than a homogenous team. Companies that value individuals from all walks of life may also have a competitive advantage when it comes to hiring talent, retaining employees, and attracting customers.
“At Nevada State Bank, we’ve been making great strides over the last few years in creating and maintaining a multicultural organization that is open, supportive, and responsive,” said Micah Phillips, executive vice president and chair of the bank’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Advisory Board. “The Advisory Board was established to foster an environment where employees can appreciate the unique talents each individual brings to the workplace. Our aim is to make sure employees feel comfortable and at ease, regardless of their unique backgrounds and situations.”
One of the first efforts of the Advisory Board was to encourage employees to create Business Resource Groups (BRGs), in which colleagues sharing common identities, interests and issues could meet for educational and social activities, support, and mentoring. These BRGs host networking and professional development events throughout the year, and members partner with Human Resources to help attract and retain a diverse workforce.
“Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Business Resource Groups are a great place to connect with other employees, support great causes, and promote personal development,” noted Phillips. “They are open to everyone, whether they identify as a member of a particular group or want to find out more about its members.”
BRGs sponsor social events such as potlucks, holiday celebrations, and volunteer opportunities, where all employees are invited to participate. Rather than emphasizing the differences between cultures and lifestyles, their aim is to reach out and build relationships across the entire employee base, recognizing the interests, challenges, and goals that all employees share. Here are just a few of the recent activities sponsored by BRGs:
- To Celebrate Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Month in April, all the DEI BRGs came together to generate awareness with a Donuts & DEI initiative. During the month of April, volunteers from all our BRGs visited every NSB branch to deliver donuts and talk about the bank’s DEI efforts.
- The Women’s Leadership BRG hosted a virtual event that included a panel of women leaders from across the Zions Bancorporation footprint who discussed their experiences in professional growth and financial wellness. The Women’s Leadership BRG also launched a Summer Book Club, which featured ongoing and special events, including a luncheon and discussion with Lisa Chastain, a renowned money coach and author of the book, “Girl, Get your $h*t Together!”.
- The Asian-American & Pacific Islanders BRG hosted an event celebrating AAPI Month with performances by Broadway stars Deedee Magno-Hall and Clifton Hall. (BRG members are pictured above with the performers.)
- The Amigos BRG hosted a Cinco de Mayo “Lotería” event to share Hispanic culture and awareness with fellow colleagues, while enjoying lunch and “Latin Bingo,” with all proceeds collected going to St. Jude’s Ranch for Children.
- The Emerging Leaders and the Veterans BRGs co-hosted a Leadership Series discussion featuring U.S.VETS Executive Director Shalimar Cabrera.
- The L.G.B.T.Q. & Allies BRG participated in pride parades in Southern and Northern Nevada and walked in the 33rd Annual AIDS Walk Las Vegas.
- The Black Leadership and Cultural Knowledge (B.L.A.C.K.) BRG celebrated Black History Month with a speaking engagement by Carmen Beats, associate curator
for the Nevada Art Museum. - The Disability Awareness & Wellness Network (D.A.W.N) BRG commemorated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with an educational event featuring a special presentation, light refreshments, and raffle prizes.
Nevada State Bank’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion efforts are bearing fruit. Hundreds of employees have attended BRG-sponsored events, which are publicized in both internal and external communications, helping spread the word about their value.
“Any employee can apply to create a new Business Resource Group,” noted Phillips. “Because of our initial success, we’re looking forward to more groups being established in the future.”