McNair Scholar 2023 Edgar Gonzales Reyes
Edgar Gonzales Reyes is a senior at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities majoring in human resource development at CEHD. His interest revolves around developing minoritized workers through training and development, with the goal of increasing diversity and equity within organizations.
My dream is to work my way up the chain in NASA or the UN. The missions of these organizations have always been inspiring to me and I hope to one day become the head of HR for these organizations and help humanity achieve unity on earth and in space.
Research project
ERGS as cultural knowledge: Participatory learning, development, and empowerment in organizations
Abstract: Culture has the ability to influence organizational behavior and performance outcomes. Most studies have identified this phenomenon through the actions and vantage point of organizational leaders. To contribute a different perspective, the purpose of this study is to explore how Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) utilize their indigenous and cultural knowledge at work. Attention is also given to employee resource groups (ERGs) to consider how they contribute to diversity management (DM) and knowledge management (KM). We begin by explaining why the implementation of ERGs is an effective strategy to support diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and anti-racism. Next, we offer a literature review of indigenous and cultural knowledge approaches that have been utilized in the workplace by racial minorities. We especially expound on research that identifies coping strategies and participatory learning practices that help BIPOC employees navigate workplace incivility (i.e., modern discrimination) and advance their careers.
Faculty mentor
Stephanie Sisco is an Assistant Professor at the University of Minnesota in the College of Education and Human Development. Her areas of expertise include diversity management and social/participatory learning strategies. Dr. Sisco explores these topics through qualitative research methods to identify and understand how social issues appear at work and influence the learning, development, and advancement of professionals of color and other minorities. Dr. Sisco also teaches courses and develops curricula for the Business & Marketing Education and Human Resource Development programs at the University of Minnesota. Prior to her professorship, she earned a Ph.D. in Human Resource Development from the University of Minnesota, a B.A. in Communication and History from the University of California – Davis, and an M.S.Ed. in Adult and Higher Education from Northern Illinois University.