Diversity at APL
APL's diversity program ensures that we are finding the best talent, retaining the best talent, and promoting the best talent. We feel strongly that one of the values of having a diverse staff is the "diversity of thought" afforded not only by ethnic/religious/other individual characteristics but also by background from life experiences.
Demonstrating Commitment
APL values diversity at all staff levels, including management. How are we promoting and shaping a diverse environment?
- By recruiting high-caliber interns from diversity-linked programs (such as our own ATLAS Program)
- Through strong support of APL's affinity groups
- By publishing a Laboratory-wide diversity newsletter, Diversity Dynamics
- By presenting Diversity Awareness Seminars for all new managers
One of the values of having a diverse staff is "diversity of thought" afforded not only by ethnic/religious/other individual characteristics but also by background from life experiences.
Affinity Groups and Clubs
APL promotes diversity by sponsoring and encouraging staff members to join its many affinity groups and/or participate in their celebrations and other activities. Self-organized groups such as the Asian American Heritage Club, Hispanic Awareness Club, African American Culture Club, JHU Women's Network, and Young Professionals Network allow staff members to increase their understanding of each other and explore their differences in a positive environment. The open-membership philosophy of the groups, where staff members are encouraged to participate regardless of their own heritage, facilitates this process.
A New Project Celebrating Diversity
With the help of affinity group representatives and other interested staff, the Laboratory is finding new and exciting ways to showcase the vibrant multicultural, multiracial, and multiethnic dimensions of the APL community. Because the best celebrations involve a variety of traditions, observances, and festivities, staff members have been asked to share and upload photos of an event or celebration that reflects their heritage, regardless of the time of year it occurs. The images will be incorporated into large banners that will decorate the walls during APL's Winter Reception in December. After the reception, the banners will be displayed in all APL lobbies for the rest of the month. Staff members will be able to view their coworkers' images and read their stories as well as share their own.
And because food is at the heart of every culture, heritage, or ethnicity, APL staff recently submitted recipes for small desserts, pastries, cookies, sweets, or breads, 12 of which will be featured in the 2010 APL calendar, "Flavors of APL."
