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New diversity training program at Salt Lake County

Salt Lake City— Mayor Jenny Wilson announced a plan to expand diversity training internally at Salt Lake County with the transition of executive Emma E. Houston to develop and lead an initiative that aims to transform the way Salt Lake County does business. This is a new role for Houston after she has successfully led the Mayor’s Office of Diversity & Inclusion as director for the past four years. 

“We have identified a need in our Salt Lake County workforce to ensure that all employees approach their respective roles through the lens of diversity, equity, access, and inclusion. There is no one better than Emma Houston to deliver on that challenge,” said Mayor Wilson. 

Houston will be tasked with designing an internal training program to see that county decision making, communicating, and service delivery are accessible and equitable to all residents, communities, and businesses. 

“It has been my focus to view the culture of Salt Lake County and the many employees who work here as one big inclusive team, a team striving to be better, do better and to be an example of how welcoming looks, sounds, and feels,” said Houston. “My role as Diversity & Inclusion Director has granted me the opportunity to work with amazing individuals to help create an atmosphere where all people feel welcome, respected, and valued. I look forward to continuing work with our human resources team as we move to the next level with inclusion, diversity, equity, and access.” 

Houston assumed her new role on Monday, May 4. 

Mayor Wilson expressed a heartfelt thanks to Houston for her tireless work in promoting an inclusive community and government. The Mayor said, “While we will miss Emma and her influence here in the Mayor’s Office, we can all feel confident and grateful that Emma will be leading with her passion, energy, knowledge, and skills as she strengthens and enriches the efforts of all Salt Lake County employees.”