INTRODUCING EQUITABLE WELL-BEING

The Office of Equitable Well-Being is a new department within the Durham County Manager’s office. The office is led by Dr. Brent Lewis, Director of Equitable Well-Being, who joined Durham County Government on May 30, 2023. Dr. Lewis brings an extensive background in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging leadership from a 12-year career in higher education.

In addition to the role of Dr. Lewis, the Office of Equitable Well-Being has recently hired Cassandra Kiger, Equitable Well-Being Manager; Robert Espinosa, Racial Equity Analyst; and JoAnna Gallmon-Young, Equity & Inclusion Analyst. The team will work collaboratively to create and support equity initiatives both internally and externally.

Equitable Well-Being works to provide equitable access to County resources, services, and equitable experiences that allow for inclusion and access for all community members. In addition, Equitable Well-Being strives to invest in County employees through educational and training opportunities. Projects in the works from the Office of Equitable Well-Being include enhanced training opportunities related to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging and the emergence of Employee Resource Groups.

The Equitable Well-Being office is also engaged in community partnerships to support equity initiatives in the City of Durham. External engagement includes serving as the county liaison for the joint City and County Durham Racial Equity Commission. In addition, Equitable Well-Being is part of community conversations related to affordable housing, safety, access to equitable health and wellness opportunities, education, and the acknowledgment and support of diverse communities and businesses.

Equitable Well-Being works to provide equitable access to County resources, services, and equitable experiences that allow for inclusion and access for all community members.

Moreover, the office works to collaborate with community organizations and non-profits such as the LGBTQ Center of Durham on Pride: Durham, NC, and community organizations planning events such as Juneteenth and other cultural and heritage celebrations in the Durham community. Dr. Lewis shares “I am very excited to join Durham County Government, an organization providing access and opportunity to the community, it is critical that we examine our culture, build equity into all of our practices, and listen to the stories of our employees and residents as we strive to strengthen sense of belonging and affirmation for all.”

Got a question for the Office of Equitable Well-Being? Email Dr. Lewis at brentlewis@dconc.gov.