Thriving Together: Meet Maura Koutoujian

Leveraging diverse perspectives allows us to develop better overall solutions to the problems we face. In this series, we take time to recognize our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and the work they do to create an environment where all employees can thrive. In each series post, we will be highlighting a member nominated by an ERG.

Tell me about your role at Mass General Brigham and your role within the ERG you were nominated by.

I am a Senior Professional Coach in the Office of Mediation, Coaching, Ombuds and Support Services (OMCOSS). While championing a culture of respect and belonging, I work with employees and faculty at all levels within the institution on topics ranging from leadership skill development to overall well-being. It's an extraordinary role and an unprecedented workforce benefit. I am currently a co-chair of Brigham and Women's Hospital LGBTQ+ ERG alongside Tina Gelsomino. We are recreating our ERG and broadening our vision.

How has this ERG positively impacted you?

I came out 41 years ago. It's been quite a journey; exciting, challenging, joyful and sometimes scary. I couldn't imagine a large organization would ever be a safe and welcoming space for me. Thirty-seven years later, I joined the Brigham for my dream job where I noticed rainbow stickers on employee badges. I assumed it was LGBTQ+ identified individuals expressing their pride and was comforted by this. Although true, there were many allies who did the same to show their commitment to a culture of solidarity. The LGBTQ+ ERG created these stickers affording me an immediate sense of safety and belonging.

What has been your favorite experience while participating in this ERG and what are you looking forward to in the next few months?

I look forward to planting the seeds for our ERG to thrive again. Our goal is to reimagine and recreate what our ERG can be. To bring together old and new members, host affinity groups to create collectives within our larger community where a shared vision can cultivate innovation, inclusion and inspiration. I am committed to fostering diversity within our ERG. The intersectionality of identities–nuanced and bold, visible and invisible–allows for an inclusive, dynamic and successful ERG.