Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) is a high priority at NSF. The Foundation’s mission depends on recruiting, hiring, retaining, and developing the best talent. NSF remains committed to employing a highly qualified workforce representative of the diversity in our nation, drawing from all segments of society. We will continue to foster and maintain an inclusive and supportive environment that advances diversity and inclusion as core values and critical components of the agency’s culture.
With the support of NSF's Office of Equity and Civil Rights (OECR), employees have established several groups that meet to discuss common interests and goals. At present, the agency has three Employee Resource Groups (ERG) and one Special Interest Group (SIG).
An ERG is a group of employees who come together based on shared interests, characteristics, or life experiences, and work to achieve diversity, equity, inclusion, and a sense of belonging at the agency. ERGs are important avenues for individuals and allies to promote a diverse and equitable work environment. These groups meet to discuss and unite under their common interests and goals. ERGs also discuss how they can expand diversity and inclusion within the Foundation while contributing to NSF's mission. SIGs differ from ERGs because they are communities within a larger organization with a shared interest in advancing a specific area of knowledge, learning or technology where members cooperate to affect or to produce solutions within their particular field.
NSF has the following ERGs:
- LGBTQ+ and Allies ERG - Seeks to promote a culture of diversity and inclusion by addressing the needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer employees and their friends and allies. The LGBTQ+ and Allies ERG seeks to advance the understanding and inclusion of all employee orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions.
- Los Amigos ERG - Dedicated to promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion at NSF by elevating the visibility of the Hispanic presence across NSF. Their core values are integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity. Los Amigos works to improve opportunities for Hispanic and Latinx Americans associated with NSF.
- Mental Health Advocates ERG - Strives to promote a culture of diversity and inclusion at NSF by promoting mental health awareness. MHA works to normalize mental health in the workplace through fellowship, discussion, and education.
ERGs are open to all NSF employees and contractors, and membership is not exclusive to the identity group being supported by the mission. Allyship is an integral part of an ERG’s diversity and inclusion strategy.
NSF has one special interest group:
- Blacks in Government (BIG), NSF Chapter - Serves as part of a National professional organization for civil service employees. BIG is a national response to the need for African Americans in public service to organize around issues of mutual concern and use their collective strength to confront workplace and community issues.