Education

Celebrating Diversity and Empowerment at Stanford Health Care with BEAM Team

On February 13, 2024, the Black Employee Advancement and Mentorship Employee Resource Group (BEAM Team) celebrated two pivotal moments: Black History Month and the completion of their “Bold Moves” initiatives - a series of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, specifically designed by and for the BEAM Team members. The three Bold Moves includes: 

• The BEAM Equity Award,
• The BEAM Team Mentoring Program, and
• The Enhancement of the New Employee Orientation

These diversity initiatives have embarked us on a new journey towards progress, nurturing a deeper sense of community and shared values at SHC. We extend our gratitude towards David Entwistle, CEO of SHC, for his presence, sponsorship, and continued support of these programs, which have significantly transformed the cultural landscape and inspired others to take action.

Participants were welcomed by event hosts, Reverend Dr. Kafunyi Mwamba, BEAM Team’s Co-Chair, Jaliza Johnson and Jakaria Stewart, board members of the Mentorship and Education Committee for BEAM Team, and Deidre Schneider, Director of Human Resources - Talent and Leadership Effectiveness. As participants signed in, they were presented with BEAM Team welcome Bags, learned the significance of the Black/African American flag, and watched and sang along to a recorded performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” often referred to as the Black National Anthem.

The celebration commenced with a keynote speech by Dr. Michelle Y. Williams, PhD, RN, FAAN, Associate Chief Nursing Officer – Research and Health Equity, SHC. A pioneer executive leader of the Bold Moves since 2021, Dr. Williams eloquently traced the evolution of these initiatives from their inception to the present day.

Concluding her address with a heartfelt "Pongezi" (congratulations in Swahili), Dr. Williams emphasized how honoring our past has kindled a flame of renewed belonging. Below, discover how each Bold Move has fostered connections, celebrated the rich diversity of the Stanford Health Care community, and reinforced our unity as a vibrant tapestry.

Shaquille Tillman, BEAM Equity Award Recipient 2024

Dr. Joyce Sackey, MD, Chief Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer, spoke about the significance of the Annual BEAM Equity Award, and recognizing an individual, who embodies this type of leadership. This award highlights an outstanding employee at Stanford Health Care, who demonstrates significant professional contributions towards advancing and promoting equitable care for patients, fellow team members, and/or the community. 

Participants received certificates and pins to affix to their badges, and mentors/mentees were invited to share key reflections and appreciation. Mentor, Hirut Truneh, MSN, RN, Interim Chief Nursing Officer at SHC Tri-Valley, discovered a renewed purpose, and shared the reason we show up to work every day, “to leave a team better than you found it”, especially significant given her 30 years of service at SHC. Mentee, Alpha Diallo, Director of Information Systems, shared a compelling reflection about his mentor, Dawn Rorig, Chief Human Resource Officer, “With Dawn as my mentor, I explored new horizons. She expressed active listening and genuine interest, and her impact will resonate with me for years to come; I am eager to pay it forward and honored for this possibility.”

By fostering professional growth, inclusivity, and mentorship, the program sows the seeds for a leadership pipeline nurtured by its own workforce. 

Kevin Silvestre, Senior Manager, HR-Talent Acquisition, and Shaquille Tillman were part of the team enhancing the NEO experience. Shaquille summed up the implementation of this initiative sharing, “Diversity and inclusion go beyond mere numerical representation; they revolve around fostering a feeling of belonging for each person. Together, we achieve more!"