How long have you worked for Maximus, and what is your job? 

KeShonda Bullock: I joined Maximus in July 2021 as a Senior Marketing Manager supporting U.S. Services. My role involves using digital technology to increase brand awareness and audience conversion among state and local government stakeholders. 

Why do you think it’s important for companies to invest in a DE&I strategy? 

KeShonda Bullock: It’s simple. It benefits the company, employees, and our customers. A DE&I strategy creates lasting culture that can help retain employees, drive growth and innovation, and further our competitive edge.  

Why did you join the Black Alliance ERG?  

KeShonda Bullock: I joined Maximus, in a remote posture, during the pandemic. This made it a little more challenging to meet others across the organization. When DE&I announced the launch of its employee resource groups (ERGs), I saw it as an opportunity to meet others across Maximus. I joined the Black Alliance ERG to network and lend my voice to impact change at Maximus. I wasn't content with only being a member. I decided to run for a leadership position within Black Alliance. I knew I could serve as a resource to senior leadership by offering my diverse perspective on workplace culture, policies, and procedures.  

As part of the inaugural leadership team, we’re laying the foundation for our ERG’s vision. We’re creating new experiences, opportunities to connect with colleagues, and, most importantly, a safe space. It's an exciting time to see our vision coming to life and know we’re having a great impact.  

What’s the most exciting experience you have had as a member of the Black Alliance ERG?  

KeShonda Bullock: I know you asked for the most exciting, but I have two. 

The very first all-member meeting. It was exciting to see colleagues join the initial meeting and express interest. My marketing hat said this demonstrates a need for an outlet such as the Black Alliance ERG.  

My second most exciting experience was the 2022 Juneteenth celebration hosted by the Black Alliance ERG. We had over 300 colleagues join for a riveting panel discussion on Juneteenth, a virtual tour of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, and a competitive game of trivia. To this day, we’re still receiving great feedback on our event. Equally exciting is the event is a finalist for a Ragan Communications Award.  

What’s the biggest impact you think the Black Alliance ERG can have on Maximus and/or the community?  

KeShonda Bullock: I’m hopeful that the Black Alliance ERG will foster a sense of belonging for our members and the larger Maximus community. To create this sense of belonging, we’re making it our mission to help members develop their careers, increase professional networks, and collaborate across the business lines. According to the Harvard Business Review, when employees feel like they belong companies reap substantial bottom-line benefits. For Maximus, this can translate into lower attrition, diverse perspectives, and internal promotions and transfers, etc.  

I’ll close by saying the Black Alliance ERG members are doing their part by forming an inclusive community. Together, we, as the larger Maximus community, have to be the change we want to see. Get involved! It’s as easy as joining the ERG, attending an upcoming meeting, and/or checking out our newsletter.