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In Reply Refer To:
Mail Stop 602
GS00000868

July 2, 2010

Memorandum

To: All USGS Employees

From: Suzette M. Kimball (signed)
Deputy Director

Subject: U.S. Geological Survey Diversity Statement

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recognizes its talented and diverse workforce as a key asset. Our success as an agency is a reflection of the quality and skill of our people. The USGS is committed to seeking out and retaining a highly skilled and diverse workforce to ensure we accomplish our mission in the most effective, efficient, and robust way possible.

Diversity benefits individuals, teams, the USGS as a whole, and our stakeholders. All employees bring their own unique capabilities, experiences, and characteristics to their work. As an employee, it is your responsibility to treat coworkers, stakeholders, and customers with respect and dignity. We must strive to create and foster a supportive and understanding environment in which each employee can realize maximum potential, regardless of differences.

We are committed to employing the best people to do the best job possible and recognize the importance of reflecting the diversity of our customers and our Nation.  The USGS is diverse along many dimensions.  Our diversity encompasses many differences, including race, ethnicity, gender and gender identification, language, age, sexual orientation, religion, socio-economic status, physical and mental ability, marital status, experience, and education.  The wide array of perspectives that result from such diversity promotes innovation and success.

As an employee, you are encouraged to let the USGS Guiding Principles — be respectful; be accountable; communicate; value differences; encourage; focus; and collaborate — set the compass for your conduct and interactions with each other.  These principles are the keys to unlocking the maximum potential that lies within each of us.

For more information on diversity at the USGS contact John A. Szemraj, Diversity Manager at jszemraj@usgs.gov or 703-648-7761.