Promoting Diversity and Engaging Employees

Diversity and inclusion are key strategic goals at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in central New Jersey. In 2012, when the hospital implemented its first board-approved diversity and inclusion plan, it reached out to the AHA's Institute for Diversity and Health Equity. One component of the plan was creating employee-led business resource groups. RWJUH has seven groups: Advancing Women through Advocacy, Recognition and Empowerment; Asian Society for Impact and Advocacy Network; Black Professionals Network; Emerging Leaders Network; Promoting Respect, Outreach and Dignity for LGBT employees; Service and Advocacy for Latinos United for Development; and Veterans Engaging through Service. These groups lead business projects that are linked to key organizational metrics, including financial performance, employee and patient engagement, and marketplace positioning. In a recent survey, 70 percent of group members said their participation added value to the employee experience. With the business resource groups, RWJUH is able to respond to an array of business opportunities, provide opportunities for staff growth, and develop the next generation of leaders.