Affinity Group Co-Chairs

Margaret Sagan joined Northwestern University in 2022. She serves as the Assistant Director of Public Programs at the Block Museum of Art. She earned her master's degree from Columbia University, School of International and Public Affairs. As ANUW president she helps determine the strategic vision of the organization and leads the board. She is a past co-chair of ANUW's programming committee and previously served on the Weinberg Staff Advisory board.

Why do Affinity Groups matter? Staff associations and boards provide a place for employees across the university to come together and do creative work while building connections outside of their department. Participating in these groups is a great way to get a broader perspective on the university and doing so has helped me learn how to advocate for staff experiences, as well as being a part of community building.

Christina Edwards joined Northwestern University in 2023. She serves as the Project Coordinator for Administration and Reporting at Feinberg School of Medicine, Development and Alumni Relations. She earned her bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from DePaul University. She serves as ANUW Vice President and is a member of Black Professionals Network. She is a past co-chair of ANUW's mentoring committee.

Why do Affinity Groups matter? The affinity groups are purposeful and truly matter on campus. They have provided me with continued support, encouragement, and have greatly contributed to the advancement of my career. Participating in ANUW and BPN has been such a blessing. It has provided so much comfort and helped to establish a safe space for marginalized communities at the university. Each month hearing the journey narratives from my respected colleagues was truly powerful and so inspiring. Attending the yearly events for MLK Day, Juneteenth, and the BPN Holiday party are historical and social events that I look forward to. I am an avid reader, and I truly enjoyed the BPN monthly book club. From participating as a mentee in the ANUW Mentoring Program, attending the Lead for Success Conference, participating in the MMP (Manager Mentor Program), to serving on the Executive Board as the Mentoring Co-Chair and as the current Vice President for ANUW have all contributed greatly to my leadership skills and personal development. Facilitating mentoring events like the ANUW Mentoring Cupcake Social, the Summer Step Challenge (which focused on health and wellness), the ANUW Coffee Chats, Summer Book Club, as well as the ANUW, BPN, and Women’s Center Food Drive for the Greater Chicago Food Depository (in conjunction with the Salvation Army) espouse the mission and values of ANUW. The dynamic guest speakers for ANUW programming events like Conversations with an Executive, The Winter Speaker Panel, and Pathways to Success have all provided insightful and in-depth discussions. Overall, I am very grateful for such a strong supportive community and the lasting friendships that I have made.

Jennifer Mok is an Advisor in the Office of International Student and Scholar Services, guiding individuals through the complexities of immigration and visa processes. With a Masters in Learning and Organizational Change, she endeavors to apply human-centered design thinking to create inclusive environments. In her previous life, Jennifer taught English as a Second Language in Seoul, South Korea, Mexico, and Orlando, Florida.  In her free time, she enjoys exploring languages, music, art, and architecture.

Why are Affinity Groups important?

Growing up in South Carolina, I always struggled to belong. This is the reason why I am grateful to ASAG for the sense of belonging and community it has given me. To me, affinity groups serve as safe spaces for people to be themselves. They facilitate mutual learning and understanding of the rich diversity within the community. 

Tracey Gibson-Jackson is the founder and co-chair of the NU Black Professionals Network (BPN). She has been at Northwestern since 2007 and currently serves as the director of student organizations & activities. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre and a Master’s degree in Political and Justice Studies. Tracey has been immersed in student affairs for over 25 years. She has a fierce passion for bring people together and creating opportunities for inclusiveness and representation. Her areas of experience include community building, conflict resolution, and mediation. Away from work she enjoys spending time with her Westie Pepper Princess Jackson (PPJ) and her two sons.

Why do Affinity Groups matter?

Affinity groups matter because everyone should have a safe place, space, community they can feel comfortable in and connected to. BPN prides itself on making sure every member of our community is seen, valued and celebrated!

David Hartmann has been with Northwestern University since March 2014, and his current role is Manager, Business Services / Assistant Director, Division of Student Affairs Business and Finance.

He is a CPA who, prior to coming to Northwestern, worked in both public accounting and in the private sector.

Additionally, he taught in Chicago area synagogues for over thirty years.

Noelia  (pronouns: she/her/ella) is the Executive Assistant to Lorraine Goffe, VP of Human Resources and CHRO. She holds a BA in Psychology and Art, with Honors in Studio Arts. She is a seasoned executive assistant with a track record of providing top-tier support to C-suite level executives. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for organization, she excels in managing complex calendars, coordinating meetings, and creating impactful presentations. Her expertise extends to event planning, where she thrives in executing projects and events seamlessly. Noelia serves as a trusted liaison between executives and various stakeholders, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration. She also plays a key role in broader team communication, fostering a cohesive and productive work environment.  Noelia is deeply passionate about giving back to the community and is actively involved in uplifting and supporting various organizations through volunteer work. She is a member of the programming committee for ANUW, a co-chair of Unidos, and a volunteer at Special Gifts Theatre.

As a co-chair for Unidos, Noelia is dedicated to amplifying the contributions of the Latinx community and to upholding Northwestern’s commitment of building an innovative, collaborative, and multidimensional community.