Angela Marie Valdez
December 8, 2023.
THREE WORDS THAT COME TO MIND WHEN THINKING OF BELONGING:
Diversity, Empathy, Acceptance
MY NAME IS INTERESTING BECAUSE:
Angela is an interesting name because it has Greek & Latin roots that are well known to connote qualities of being kind, compassionate, and empathetic.
TELL US ABOUT A TIME YOU FELT A SENSE OF BELONGING IN OUR DEPARTMENT:
I feel a strong sense of belonging at work during our monthly administrative meetings. I've always appreciated how our Assistant Division Manager, Julie Hutchinson, in particular, leads with an open-minded and welcoming demeanor that truly makes all the difference in our everyday.
WHY DO YOU THINK BELONGING IS IMPORTANT?
Belonging is a fundamental aspect of human experience that contributes to psychological well-being, social support, identity formation, and overall life satisfaction. In addition to fulfilling basic human needs, belonging has positive implications for mental, emotional, and physical health and may even act as a buffer against stress.
WHAT INCLUSION-BASED THEME WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE THE DEPARTMENT EMBRACE IN 2024? WHY?
Collaboration and Teamwork! Diverse teams can bring different skills, perspectives, and even ideas that contribute to innovation and success for all.