Multicultural Employee Network receives UCD Values in Action Award

30 Nov 2020

The Multicultural Employee Network (MENU) has received the UCD Values in Action award for its role in supporting international employees. Almost one third (30%) of UCD employees are international and MENU works to support and assist them with their integration with the UCD community. Since its inception MENU has rapidly grown to 198 members, representing 47 different countries, from 80 different Schools and units across UCD.

MENU has formed a committee of 12 members to coordinate and organise the wide range of creative events for international and Irish colleagues. The existence of a network such as this has never been so vital as during this period of COVID-19, where colleagues are working remotely. MENU has played a very important role during the pandemic in connecting international and national colleagues and supporting mental health and wellbeing.

MENU has organised many virtual coffee mornings and have been very innovative in engaging its members as well as other UCD groups and networks. The group has also been contacted by other Universities to present to their new international staff networks and are planning to engage with them further.

The UCD Values in Action awards recognise colleagues who bring to life the values of Collegiality, Creativity, Diversity, Engagement, Excellence and Integrity.