Jewish Employee Resource Group

Mission Statement

The Jewish Employee Resource Group (JERG) at the University of Rochester is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and engaging environment for Jewish faculty, staff, and employees — as well as colleagues who wish to learn about and support the Jewish community. Our mission is to provide opportunities for connection, professional growth, and cultural sharing. Open to everyone at the University, the group encourages mutual understanding and respect, and contributes to a campus culture that values belonging, mutual respect, and the richness of different perspectives.

The Jewish ERG aims to provide a welcoming environment for Jewish staff, employees, and faculty within the university community, as well as their allies. Our goals are to sponsor professional development opportunities and mentorship for Jewish employees, to serve as a resource for Jewish employees navigating both personal and professional challenges, and to provide a resource for Jewish employees to direct them to nondiscriminatory practices and policies at the University of Rochester that support the well-being of Jewish employees.

Membership in the Jewish Employee Resource Group is open to all University of Rochester faculty, staff, and employees who identify as Jewish, as well as those who wish to support, learn about, or engage with Jewish culture, heritage, and community. All members are encouraged to participate in the group’s activities, initiatives, and events, and to contribute to its goals of fostering community, belonging, and mutual understanding. There are no membership fees or dues.

The Jewish Employee Resource Group will hold regular meetings to discuss initiatives, plan events, and address any concerns or needs from members. Meetings will be held virtually or in person. General meetings will be held at least once a year. Additional meetings may be called by the Co-Chairs or upon request by at least 10 members, and approval by the Co-Chairs. Meetings will be open to all members and will encourage active participation. Meetings will be structured to allow for open discussion, updates on ongoing initiatives, and planning for upcoming events or actions. Minutes from each meeting will be shared with all members via email or another appropriate communication channel.