Celebrating NJIT's Black/African American Employee Resource Group

NJIT has established employee resource groups (ERG) that meet regularly, build community for underrepresented employees and encourage faculty and staff to connect outside of their direct working relationships. This February for Black History Month, NJIT is celebrating its Black/African American ERG and publishing an employee spotlight on two of its members: Sanjeannetta Worley, associate director of Residence Life; and Vincent Oria, professor of computer science in the Ying Wu College of Computing.

What is the mission and purpose of your ERG?

SW: The ERG was introduced to me as a way to create safe spaces for people that have similar backgrounds and experiences within a defined group. By race or culturally, I identify with the Black ERG. The Black ERG is an opportunity to foster the connections between people who share professional, social and life experiences that are shaped or impacted by being a "marginalized" group of people.

VO: The employee resource groups are employee-led groups that aim at fostering a diverse, inclusive workplace where everybody is welcome and appreciated.

What motivated you to join this ERG?

SW: I joined the ERG to make new connections on campus. I have been at NJIT for several years and realized within the last five years more than 50% of the people I was closely connected to departed NJIT. I need to expand my network beyond the communication of daily tasks with people on campus. Hopefully with my experience, I can also assist younger co-workers that share a similar background navigate being on campus as a young professional as well.

VO: I would like contribute to make NJIT a better place.

Can you share a memorable experience from your involvement with the ERG, or one you hope to have?

SW: Attending the Melanin Mixer on Feb. 1 gave me the opportunity to make new connections with colleagues I may not normally have a chance to know.

VO: The Melanin Mixer as part of the kickoff for Black History Month was a nice social event. While the group is still growing there is room to host similar events in Juneteenth and Kwanzaa.

How does your ERG enhance personal and professional growth?

SW: I see the potential for both personal and professional growth and look forward to recognizing and exploring them as they come along. I am open to learning about and from the people the Black ERG has and will connect me with. 

VO: I can see the potential for new comers. I wish I had it when I joined NJIT in 2000.

What advice do you have for colleagues who are considering joining the ERG?

SW: Attend an event or meeting when considering an ERG. I would remind them of the opportunity to make new connections to folks around campus and share their experiences.

VO: You will not regret it.

​​What is one of your proudest achievements during your time at NJIT?

SW: As an employee at NJIT there are a number of opportunities and situations that can create memorable moments.  I have achieved a number of professional milestones to be proud of.  My proudest achievement is "prayerfully" providing a positive and consistent impact.  I know I am on the right track when students, parents, co-workers, etc. provide feedback that leans towards that.  Comically, even in times when I have to say no to their demands; a kind yet firm no. ;-)

VO: I will be proud when we can increase the number of underrepresented in both faculty, students and staff.

What is a little-known fact that your peers at NJIT might not know about you?

SW: Many of my peers only see me in meeting settings being serious and handling the tasks at hand.  Fact is, I can be silly at times and will find joy and laughter in most situations.  I plan to write a comedy someday about some of the interactions I have had over the years.  Some interactions are more "special" than others; I promise to somewhat change names....

VO: I play African drums, I collect wine and fountain pens.