FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 19, 2019
Contact:
Peter Leggett
peter.leggett@ci.stpaul.mn.us
651-307-8603
SAINT PAUL, MN - Today, Mayor Melvin Carter announced Valerie Jensen as the new director of Saint Paul’s Department of Human Rights & Equal Economic Opportunity (HREEO).
“Valerie Jensen’s commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion has been the foundation of her work in our community,” said Mayor Melvin Carter. “As HREEO Director, this commitment and her broad range of experience will be an incredible asset to our city.”
"I am honored and humbled by this amazing opportunity to serve the Mayor and the City of Saint Paul,” said Valerie Jensen. “I am excited to step in and lead HREEO in its work to create true access and opportunity for all residents."
About Valerie Jensen
Valerie Jensen is the President and Founder of Azon Consulting, a firm focused on diversity and inclusion, leadership coaching, talent development, strategic planning, and business development. She has spent her career working locally, nationally and internationally to develop inclusive organizations and communities that value and embrace differences.
Born and raised in Minnesota, she has a B.A. in Political Science with a concentration in African/African American studies from Carleton College, and a J.D. from Mitchell Hamline College of Law where she has taught for the past 12 years as an adjunct professor. She also has previously served as Chair of the Board of Directors for United Family Medicine, a Federally Qualified Health Center that serves traditionally underserved populations who lack of access to healthcare. She will start with the City of Saint Paul on January 6, 2020.
About the Department of Human Rights & Equal Economic Opportunity
Saint Paul’s Department of Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity (HREEO) champions justice and equity by confronting issues of discrimination and providing innovative avenues for accessibility and economic opportunities for all residents and businesses. HREEO achieves these goals by consistently delivering quality customer service, being a voice and advocate within the city and metro area, building relationships throughout the community, and enforcing laws.
The Department of Human Rights & Equal Economic Opportunity is composed of several divisions that perform a diverse array of functions including:
- Contract Compliance and Business Development
- Human Rights
- Labor Standards Enforcement and Education
- Procurement (Contract & Analysis Services)
- River Print
The Department of Human Rights & Equal Economic Opportunity staffs and partners with several advisory boards, which work to better inform policymakers including:
- Advisory Committee on Aging
- Human Rights & Equal Economic Opportunity Commission
- Mayor's Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities
- Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission
Learn more at https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/human-rights-equal-economic-opportunity
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