WASHINGTON, September 25, 2024 – In a historic move, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has signed a Department-wide Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Conference on Asian Pacific American Leadership (CAPAL). This partnership aims to increase awareness of USDA as an employer of choice among Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) college students, and to facilitate the recruitment, hiring, and retention of a diverse workforce.
This MOU marks a significant step towards promoting diversity and inclusivity within the USDA. It recognizes the importance of AANHPI representation in the workforce and highlights the agency’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable workplace.
The partnership with CAPAL will provide valuable opportunities for AANHPI college students to learn about the various career paths available at USDA and the benefits of working for the agency. Through career fairs, informational sessions, and networking events, students will have the chance to interact with USDA employees and gain a better understanding of the agency’s mission and values.
One of the main goals of this MOU is to increase the recruitment of AANHPI individuals at all levels within USDA. This will be achieved through targeted outreach efforts and partnerships with AANHPI organizations and communities. By actively seeking out and engaging with AANHPI candidates, USDA hopes to attract a diverse pool of talented individuals who can bring unique perspectives and experiences to the agency.
In addition to recruitment, the MOU also focuses on retention strategies to ensure that AANHPI employees feel supported and valued within USDA. This includes providing mentorship and leadership development opportunities, as well as creating a more inclusive and welcoming work environment.
The signing of this MOU is a testament to USDA’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. It sends a powerful message to AANHPI communities that their voices and contributions are valued and welcomed within the agency. It also serves as a model for other government agencies and organizations to follow in promoting diversity and equity in the workplace.
USDA Secretary, John Doe, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to enter into this MOU with CAPAL and further our efforts towards building a more diverse and inclusive workforce. We recognize the importance of AANHPI representation and are committed to creating a workplace where all employees feel valued and supported.”
CAPAL President, Jane Smith, also shared her excitement about the collaboration, saying, “We are honored to partner with USDA and work towards our shared goal of promoting diversity and inclusivity in the workforce. This MOU will provide valuable opportunities for AANHPI students and professionals to learn about the rewarding career opportunities at USDA.”
This MOU is a significant milestone in USDA’s journey towards creating a more diverse and inclusive workplace. It not only benefits the agency but also the AANHPI community by providing them with access to meaningful career opportunities and promoting their representation in the federal government.
As we look towards the future, we can hope to see more partnerships like this between government agencies and diverse communities. By working together, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
