First-Gen Prof Network Named Top 3 ERG in Nation!
UTA’s First-Gen Professionals Network ERG Named One of the Top 3 in the Nation!
The University of Texas at Arlington is proud to announce that our First-Gen Professionals Network Employee Resource Group (ERG) has been named one of the Top 3 ERGs in the nation by the prestigious Global ERG Network—a recognition that places UTA among the very best in the country for fostering empowering workplace communities.
This marks the second consecutive year that UTA’s ERGs have earned national acclaim, underscoring our institution’s commitment to cultivating a culture of engagement and excellence for all employees. “At UTA, we are proud to see our ERGs being recognized at such a high level. Making it to the top 3 nationally is a powerful affirmation of our commitment to fostering a culture of engagement for our faculty and staff,” said Imelda Wicks, Assistant Vice President of Talent, Culture, and Engagement. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our First-Gen Professional Network employees and their efforts to uplift and support first-generation professionals across our campus.”
Founded to support employees who are the first in their families to graduate from college, the First-Gen Professionals Network (FGPN) has quickly become a vibrant and impactful community. “Building connections between faculty and staff is important to the success of our campus and the students we serve,” said Robin Macaluso, Faculty Representative and Associate Professor of Chemistry. “FGPN is a positive, welcoming community where we can find common ground and make meaningful connections.”
“As first-generation graduates and professionals, it’s especially meaningful to build a community where we can grow, learn, and connect,” said Tasha Talton, Chair of FGPN and Director of UTA Transition Programs & Services. “Just as our student-focused First-Generation Initiatives champion first-gen success, FGPN mirrors that same commitment for faculty and staff.”
“Many of us have proudly reached the milestone of being the first in our families to graduate from college, but the first-gen journey doesn’t end there,” added Nancy Zamora, Co-Chair of FGPN and Director of the EDGE Center. “We continue to encounter many 'firsts', and that’s why the work we’re doing through FGPN is so important. It allows us to support and empower one another while mentoring the next generation of first-gen students.”
“As the youngest professional on the inaugural leadership team, I enjoy helping other new professionals create positive first experiences in the workplace,” shared Bryan Wilson, FGPN Secretary and Accessibility Specialist.
The First-Gen Professionals Network ERG will be formally honored at the 2025 Global ERG Network Conference, taking place in Arizona from October 21–23, 2025.
Join the Celebration and Get Involved!
UTA’s ERGs are open to all employees and offer a unique opportunity to connect, grow, and contribute to a more engaged workforce. To learn more about the First-Gen Professionals Network and other ERGs at UTA, or to find out how you can get involved, please visit the Employee Engagement website.