2007 WI State Diversity Advocate Award

Diversity as we define it means difference. Our premise is that differences can offer benefits to any organization.

Diversity enriches organizations. We learn from those whose experiences, beliefs, and perspectives are different from our own. These lessons can be taught best in a richly diverse intellectual and social environment. 

It promotes personal growth and a healthy society. It strengthens communities and the workplace. Working within a diverse setting prepares employees to be good citizens in an increasingly complex society; it fosters mutual respect and teamwork.

The Wisconsin SHRM Diversity Advocate Award recognizes an individual who has been a role model in their local community as a strong advocate for diversity in human resources.

I am pleased to announce the 2007 WI State Diversity Advocate Award recipient is Viseth Moua. Viseth is an HR Manager at Miller Electric located in the Fox Valley. Colleagues describe Viseth as a very hard-working, professional and friendly person that is devoted to the advocacy of diversity. He is a true mentor and leader and has a contagious positive personality.

Viseth continues to promote diversity as the only Hmong HR Manager in the Fox Valley. He serves as a liaison for employers, the community and the Hmong population in the Fox Valley by sharing in the cultural differences to local churches, youth groups, and community and students groups. He also presents a very informative workshop entitled “Hmong in the Workplace” offered through Fox Valley Technical College. Viseth currently serves as a member for Fox Valley SHRM Diversity Committee and has been a presenter at their annual diversity day. Mr. Moua also serves as an adjunct faculty member for Cardinal Stritch University.

A new addition to the award this year is a $500.00 donation from the WI State Council to the organization of the recipient’s choice. Viseth has chosen for the donation to be given to the Fox Valley Area United Way. Congratulations Viseth!