Pamela Cruz. Peninsula 360 Press [P360P].
Briana Evans will be Redwood City's first equity and inclusion officer, supporting the City Council's move to make equity a fundamental guiding principle for the City's strategic plan.
In a statement, the council said Evans will work with the City Council and staff to develop an Equity Work Plan that provides an equity perspective in the provision of all city services.
"With the City Council's support for this new position, we can increase our focus on diversity, equity and inclusion in both policymaking and City operations," said City Manager Melissa Stevenson Diaz.
Evans holds a master's degree in social and cultural anthropology and a bachelor's degree in medical anthropology, both from Stanford University.
The city council noted that Briana has a strong background in research, policy and leadership, as well as bringing an innovative and forward-thinking approach to complex issues.
Most recently, Evans worked as a capital design strategist with Reflex Design Collaborative, a consulting firm that uses collaboration to design solutions that improve social equity.
Previously, she supported the San Mateo County Office of Diversity and Health Equity, where she designed organizational change strategies, navigated complex partnerships, and coached community leaders to create a more humble and culturally inclusive behavioral health care system.
"My passion is to make sure that everyone has a voice and can bring their best to the world. I believe in the wisdom and strength of communities, including those who have been marginalized for generations," Evans said.