NATICK, Ma. – With the new year comes new changes. One of these changes is the departure of Ms. Darlene Robinson, the Natick Soldier Systems Center Equal Employment Opportunity Officer.
Robinson is is bringing almost 30 years combined military and civilian service to her new position as the EEO for Army Cyber Command at Fort Gordon, Georgia.
Robinson has been the EEO Director since March 2019 and has brought her extensive knowledge of the field which she has been in for more than 10 years of experience.
“During my time here I have met some really good people and made some really great friends,” Robinson said
Robinson’s coworkers agree that working as an EEO carries an additional need to be approachable as well as knowledgeable in the field.
“Her ability to develop trusting relationships has enabled her to be a successful EEO,” Lisa Hamlin, Deputy Garrison Commander said. “Employees ask for her advice because they know they will get well-researched, honest answers.”
There are requirements that are not in the handbook to ensure people are comfortable when in the EEO office.
“People who have worked with Darlene were able to leave with a better understanding of everyone’s roles and appreciative of her patience, endurance and ability to teach while showing each person is important,” said Hamlin.
The EEO position is a delicate one that needs to have a person who has a way of showing duty to the position as well as to each person who comes in to the office no matter who it is.
“Darlene’s personality is such that she interacts with folks in a personal way, yet can immediately be all business when that’s called for,” Steve Sayer, director of operations said. “It’s been one of the honors of my career to serve with someone who’s devoted and selfless as she is.”
Sayer noticed the difference between other EEO personnel in his career compared to the presence of Robinson.
“Her engagement with the staff is a significant example of how she is different and sets herself apart. She is always available,” said Sayer. “On larger posts the EEO office camps out in their space and you only see them at staff call or when there is a problem.”
It’s not lost on Robinson that her selection for her new position with Army Cyber Command is pretty significant.
“Thank you so much to all the Natick team,” said Robinson. “Though, I am moving on to bigger and better things, It is what I have learned from you and been strongly influenced in order to be better as I continue to help others.”
The EEO office is significant in communicating differences, cultural awareness, handling of dissident and protest activities, religious accommodation, sexual harassment and other topics when it comes to human relations within the workforce. As this is ever changing, the EEO will continue to be an important position in order to encourage positive work environments that have increased diversity in every aspect.
You can still call the EEO office and speak with Mr. Stephen Berry who has been a key civilian employee at Natick for many years at (508) 206-4018 or going to bldg. 1, room A106.
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