Pawsitively Different

Pawsitively Different

  • Co-leads:
    • Jessica Aguilar
    • Robin Tate
       
  • Executive Sponsor:
    • Dr. SeriaShia Chatters

Email: [email protected]

Mission

To empower and uplift Penn State employees with disabilities and their allies, recognizing their integral role in contributing to and shaping our workplace. We foster a collaborative community that advocates for inclusivity, accessibility, and offers understanding through lived experience, while supporting personal and professional growth.

Vision

We envision a workplace where Penn State employees across the commonwealth, regardless of their abilities, are empowered, valued, and supported. We celebrate diversity as a strength, promote accessibility, and drive innovative solutions for inclusivity.

Core Values

  • Universal Belonging: We believe in building a respectful, inclusive community in which all members feel an inherent sense of belonging and pride, regardless of ability or diagnosis status.
  • Empowerment through Action: We strive to empower disabled employees by providing tools and opportunities to take active roles in shaping an equitable and inclusive workplace.
  • Lifelong Learning: We are committed to fostering a culture of continuous education about disabilities and the unique challenges faced by those living with them. This commitment promotes understanding and empathy throughout our organization, ensuring all employees feel supported and informed.
  • Holistic Support: We are dedicated to offering a comprehensive support system that includes mentorship, guidance, and a safe space for employees with disabilities, their supervisors, and colleagues to connect and thrive.

Objectives

  • Enhance Visibility: Work towards increasing the visibility of disability issues and the diverse abilities within our community, promoting an inclusive culture that recognizes and respects all experiences.
  • Dynamic Needs Assessment: Implement a robust system to regularly assess and respond to the evolving needs of, and unique challenges facing employees with disabilities, ensuring a responsive and supportive work environment.
  • Champion Equity Initiatives: Lead the charge in advocating for and implementing policies and practices that promote disability equity and foster an inclusive workplace at Penn State, including advising the university as appropriate.
  • Facilitate Resource Access: Ensure employees with disabilities and their allies have easy access to a wide range of resources, including mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and educational materials.
  • Celebrate and Educate: Disseminate educational materials and organize and host events that celebrate the diversity within our community and educate others about the unique contributions and histories of individuals with disabilities.
  • Forge Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with other university ERGs and external allies to create a cohesive network to advance employee diversity, inclusion, and equity.