Voluntary Employee Organizations at NIST

Credit: NIST

At NIST, everyone belongs. One way we encourage diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is through our employee-led groups. 

These organizations have common identities or interests, and allies are always welcome. The groups mentor students, host celebration month events or even just connect as colleagues and friends in regular meetings. 

Additionally, many of our labs and organizations have diversity councils and diversity, equity and inclusion working groups. 

Learn more below about these groups and what they bring to life at NIST.

About NIST VEOs 

Association of NIST Asian-Pacific Americans (ANAPA) 

ANAPA annually hosts a celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month at NIST with a lecture, performance and “Taste of Asia” food sampling. 

Association at NIST of Hispanic Americans (ANHA)

ANHA fosters a supportive network and provides opportunities for recognition to NIST Hispanic American employees. ANHA participates in outreach activities to inspire a new generation of Hispanic scientists in the local community.

Diversity and Inclusion in STEM Forum – NIST Charleston 

This group develops opportunities for staff from all partner institutions across the Fort Johnson campus to build a supportive and inclusive environment, increase DEIA awareness and strengthen communication skills.

Lactation Support Group 

The Lactation Support Group provides support for lactating mothers. 

NIST Association for Black Staff (NABS) 

NABS works towards creating a supportive and inclusive environment where Black staff members can thrive and contribute to the NIST mission. NABS organizes events and programs that celebrate Black culture, history and achievements. 

NIST Pride Group

NIST Pride's mission is to make NIST more welcoming for our LGBTQIA+ community. NIST Pride advocates on behalf of the community and creates spaces where people are free to be comfortable as themselves.

The Parents Network 

The Parents Network connects parents with one another throughout the various stages of parenthood, promotes healthy work-life balance strategies, and keeps members up to date on policies/programs relevant to parents and/or caregivers.

Pink Connections

The group provides NISTers affected by breast cancer a judgment-free environment that offers members a supportive community, provides advocacy and reduces stigma.

Postdoctoral and Early-Career Association of Researchers (PEAR)

PEAR is a community of early-career researchers at NIST that provides an environment for communication, learning and networking to enrich the professional lives of new research staff.

Prayer Group

The NIST prayer group meets to pray for one another and about any requests we receive.

NIST Chapter of Sigma Xi

Sigma Xi is a research society that promotes the health of the research enterprise, fosters integrity in science and engineering and promotes the public's understanding of science to improve the human condition.

Standards Alumni Association (SAA) 

The Standards Alumni Association keeps alumni informed about current NIST activities and supports the NIST mission by collaborating on projects of mutual benefit and interest. 

Standards Employees Benefit Association (SEBA) 

SEBA is a volunteer organization that provides social, recreational and wellness benefits to its members and others who are closely associated with NIST.

Take Our Daughters and Sons To Work Day

This annual event brings NISTers' children to the campuses to see the work their parents do, explained at an appropriate level.

Women in STEM (WiSTEM) 

WiSTEM is a community of NIST researchers and administrative professionals working to foster the professional and personal development of women at NIST. WiSTEM hosts events throughout the year to support its mission. 

Veterans Affinity Group

The Veterans Affinity Group helps to bring veterans at NIST together through events and celebrations. The group also provides valuable information on veteran-focused services for NIST staff.