Belonging. IT Matters. with Clyde Griffin
CDW continues its journey of belonging and working towards a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. This week, we're highlighting the unique perspectives of Clyde Griffin (he/him/his).
It matters that you belong to someone, to some team and they allow you the opportunity to show why you belong.
Describe your full, authentic self.
I'm a U.S. army veteran, passionate about education and development. I see every opportunity to better myself and those around me.
Why does belonging matter?
It matters a lot. I was never the biggest kid, never the fastest kid, never the popular kid. I grew up with several older brothers. By the time they hit high school, all of them were six feet tall – and to this day, I still have not met six feet. But one thing I do remember is that my brothers would always invite me to all their sports and their games with their friends. At times I remember they would allow me to win. I found that mysterious because once again, I wasn't the biggest or the fastest. So, one day I asked my brother, “Why did you let me win? What was your reason for that?” My brother responded, “We are brothers and everything you do matters. I did not let you win. I gave you the opportunity to show who you are and show why you matter and why you deserve to play in this game with us. And you showed me that.”
So, does belonging matter? Yes. It matters that you belong to someone, to some team and they allow you the opportunity to show why you belong.
What happens when you feel free to bring your whole authentic self to work?
When I'm allowed to bring my whole authentic self to work, I feel empowered. I can share my knowledge and experiences, as well as gain a sense of acceptance and respect from my coworkers.
What does life look like outside of the office for you?
I spend most of my time on my doctoral studies and my family. I have very young kids (2 years old and one on the way – due January!). I try to focus on those areas, as other aspects of life have grown complicated due to the racial injustices, global pandemic and social issues.
What three words would you use to describe #LifeAtCDW?
Flexible, Rewarding, Collaborative.
- Clyde Griffin
CDW continues its journey of belonging and working towards a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. This week, we're highlighting the unique perspectives of Clyde Griffin (he/him/his).
It matters that you belong to someone, to some team and they allow you the opportunity to show why you belong.
Describe your full, authentic self.
I'm a U.S. army veteran, passionate about education and development. I see every opportunity to better myself and those around me.
Why does belonging matter?
It matters a lot. I was never the biggest kid, never the fastest kid, never the popular kid. I grew up with several older brothers. By the time they hit high school, all of them were six feet tall – and to this day, I still have not met six feet. But one thing I do remember is that my brothers would always invite me to all their sports and their games with their friends. At times I remember they would allow me to win. I found that mysterious because once again, I wasn't the biggest or the fastest. So, one day I asked my brother, “Why did you let me win? What was your reason for that?” My brother responded, “We are brothers and everything you do matters. I did not let you win. I gave you the opportunity to show who you are and show why you matter and why you deserve to play in this game with us. And you showed me that.”
So, does belonging matter? Yes. It matters that you belong to someone, to some team and they allow you the opportunity to show why you belong.
What happens when you feel free to bring your whole authentic self to work?
When I'm allowed to bring my whole authentic self to work, I feel empowered. I can share my knowledge and experiences, as well as gain a sense of acceptance and respect from my coworkers.
What does life look like outside of the office for you?
I spend most of my time on my doctoral studies and my family. I have very young kids (2 years old and one on the way – due January!). I try to focus on those areas, as other aspects of life have grown complicated due to the racial injustices, global pandemic and social issues.
What three words would you use to describe #LifeAtCDW?
Flexible, Rewarding, Collaborative.
- Clyde Griffin
