Report: Glass Ceiling Still Strong in Local Government
30 years and no change in the percent (13%) of women managers in local government. It’s time for a change. We’re asking you for your perspective and ideas for action. In the next several months, we’ll introduce a series of initiatives to address the 13 percent issue.
Michelle Daniels
City of Henderson, NC — Assistant Finance Director
Connect: LinkedIn
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Where were you in 1984?
That depends on the exact date; I was born on February 17th.
Describe your view of whether local government has been effective in attracting a diverse workforce (women, minorities, etc.)?
I believe local government has attracted a diverse workforce by the nature of some positions – administrative and cultural service functions primarily; other service areas or promoting the same, not so much. That said, local government could be more effective in their recruiting strategies to increase diversity across more areas.
Wave a magic wand and give us three suggestions for improving diversity in the local government workforce.
- Develop a mentoring or internship program that specifically targets diversity and assists with job placement after completion.
- Educate and inform high school and college minorities during college and job fairs, or get them involved in something like a student academy so they are at least gaining awareness before entering college or the workforce.
- Increase exposure in the community – attend churches, political events and school functions. Invite people to council/board meetings or host “Government Day” when you’re looking to recruit a certain number of employees or volunteers.
Give us the names of the local government professionals that you look up to.
- Maia Setzer
- Joyce Munro
- Tansy Hayward
- Marchell Adams-David
- Scott Fogleman
- Elton Daniels