The Black Employee Resource Group invites all faculty and staff to its General Board Meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Arkansas Union, room 201, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided starting at 11:30 a.m.; please RSVP for the Pink Slip number by emailing aaaeig@uark.edu.

We are pleased to announce that Najja K. Baptist, director of African and African American Studies, will be the featured speaker for the luncheon. Baptist is an assistant professor of political science at the U of A. He earned his doctorate in political science from Howard University, and his work has been published in numerous scholarly journals, including National Political Science Review; Journal of Race and Ethnicity; and Politics, Groups, and Identities. His research centers on Black politics, social movements, culture, political behavior, public opinion and mass media in the United States.

The Black Employee Resource Group's mission extends beyond advocacy and support. Its members are committed to fostering leadership development, cultural competency and cross-cultural dialogue. Through a range of programs — including workshops, networking events, mentorship and collaborative initiatives — the group empowers all to advance their careers while furthering the university's broader objectives. BERG actively engages with the university community, addressing institutional issues and promoting policies that reflect our commitment to belonging and engagement.

For over two decades, BERG has championed employees at the U of A, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions valued. We invite the entire university community to join us in our efforts to create a campus where everyone feels respected and appreciated.