Shaun Simoneau
Human Resources Associate – Equal Employment Opportunity
Department of Administrative Services
DAS EEO Center of Excellence
1. What do you do?
As a Human Resources Associate - EEO within the DAS Equal Employment Opportunity Center of Excellence, I provide EEO services to my assigned client agencies, Department of Veterans Affairs and The Workers’ Compensation Commission. I conduct investigations and mediations regarding discrimination and harassment based on legally protected classes. I also write Affirmative Action Plans for my assigned client agencies and ensure my assigned client agencies are compliant with State Statutes and Regulations.
2. Why do you work for the State of Connecticut?
I work for the state because I find value in serving the public and want to give back to my community. I believe the services our state provides are integral to keeping our communities functioning correctly! Whether it be children and families, veterans, people with disabilities, or any other vulnerable population, I’m specifically drawn to improving peoples’ lives, and find a purpose in carrying out this mission.
3. What do you love about your job so far?
Besides the flexibility, I love the opportunity I’ve had to make new relationships with colleagues not only within DAS, but the whole state. It’s been amazing to meet and learn about the people who make our state run! I’ve also loved the opportunity I’ve had to make a difference with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. I’ve had the privilege of helping to organize an informational DEI and Affirmative Action event with Department of Veterans Affairs. This event provided me the opportunity to create a dialogue that ultimately improves the work culture for those providing services to and caring for our veterans!
4. What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?
My favorite activities outside of work include working out at the gym, travelling, watching Survivor, and baseball card collecting. I’m also a Boston Red Sox and Pittsburgh Steelers fan and enjoy watching my teams when they play! During warm weather, you can catch me at Rocky Neck State Beach or playing tennis with my partner Jackie!
5. Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?
Portugal - I visited the Capital city Lisbon and Lagos, a town along Portugal’s Algarve Coastline. I kayaked through cave formations, was immersed in Portuguese culture, and was able to dine on the best seafood in the world!
6. What would you tell someone who is interested in working for the state?
Keep a record of everything from your referral question answers to the job description and Preferred Qualifications when you apply to a state job; the job process can take some time, so being able to keep why you are the most qualified person for the job fresh in your head to reference during interview preparation is a gamechanger.
7. Where is your favorite place in Connecticut?
My favorite place in Connecticut is Gampel Pavilion for UConn Men’s and Women’s Basketball Games. The game atmosphere at Gampel is second to none. I’m also a 2021 UConn Alum and 2022 School of Public Policy Alum!
8. If you could choose one superpower, what would it be, and why?
I would absolutely choose teleportation; the convenience that comes along with not having to have a car or pay for transportation sounds liberating. Plus being able to see the world at the spur of a moment and a greater ability to create experiences and memories would lead to an even more fulfilling life.
9. Who inspires you and why?
My mother – she immigrated to the United States from Panama in search of better opportunities and a better life. When she got to the United States, she worked diligently between raising me and at her job to be able to provide and put me into a position to have opportunities. I now hold an advanced degree and job with the state of Connecticut because of this sacrifice! My mom’s work ethic and vision for a better life will forever inspire me and drive me to continue my work in public service.
10. Tell us your favorite fun fact.
You are 25 times more likely to be elected President of the United States than you are to win the Powerball.
