Community in Diversity: Yvette Jiang (MBA’24)
A journey that began as a student in Georgetown’s Conflict Resolution Program led Yvette Jiang (MBA’24) to a long-standing connection with the university. As an active student and employee on the Hilltop, Jiang leads with a vision to empower and engage staff and faculty through diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Jiang is one of the representatives of the Asian, Asian American, Pacific Islander Employee Resource Group (AAAPI ERG) at Georgetown. Her goal is to foster an inclusive, fair, and just campus community where employees can strengthen their leadership skills and advocacy efforts at their place of work.
“I believe [AAAPI] is groundbreaking in a sense that we’re the first ERG on Georgetown’s campus,” said Jiang. “I enjoy having conversations that are curated in a purposeful way. I like the personal touch I have with the staff members and the opportunity to learn from their stories.”
Jiang, alongside other representatives, have coordinated different events for staff and faculty, including book clubs, social events, retreats, and tours.
Jiang envisions incorporating professional development programming for members of the group, such as introducing mentoring programs. She also aspires to foster connections with other ERGs on campus to create a more inclusive environment.
According to Jiang, a DEI grant was key in advancing the ERG’s initiatives. Through the support of the William Graham DEI and Military Support Fund, the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Grant provides funding to explore innovative projects and initiatives that have a positive impact on Georgetown’s diverse community, both within and beyond McDonough.
Jiang highlights the importance of having ERGs on campus and emphasizes their role in making employees feel included and represented. Fostering a Community in Diversity is something that Jiang takes seriously.
“Having ERGs on campus retains employees and makes them feel a sense of belonging. I hope that members of the ERG can bring diversity, equity, and inclusion in this environment to our future endeavors,” said Jiang.
Outside of her Georgetown involvement, Jiang’s commitment to creating inclusive communities extends to local government in Alexandria, Virginia. She serves on the Alexandria Commission for Women, where she encourages equal opportunities for women in all aspects of their lives. In this role, she has addressed issues such as affordable housing, transportation, domestic violence, and reproductive rights.
Jiang hopes to continue creating more initiatives that empower others and amplify the voices of people from various backgrounds.
“I really just want to serve the community through meaningful engagement. I cherish the connection with each member. When I learn from others’ stories, I believe I learn more about myself,” said Jiang.
This story is part of the Embracing Our Jesuit Values series. Read the original story.