Ann Arbor Welcomes New Director of Organizational Equity
The City of Ann Arbor has hired its first director of organizational equity. Laura Orta started with the city Sept. 19 and will lead efforts for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Orta will focus on strategic planning as well as working with community stakeholder groups and the city’s workforce for cultural competency and greater diversity in participation.
Orta has more than 15 years of senior-level DEI experience. She most recently served as the director for Center for Engaged Inclusion, part of the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Institute. She was previously the director of women’s studies and diversity coordinator for Central Michigan University. She has a specialization in trauma-informed practices, LGBTQ+ and BIPOC in community and organizations and has designed and delivered training curricula.
Orta is pursuing her Ph.D. in educational leadership and social justice and currently has a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in intercultural, multicultural and diversity studies.
“Coming on the heels of our recent addition of Debra Buckson as the city’s chief human resources and labor relations officer, we are making strides in our efforts to strengthen the city as a whole,” said Ann Arbor City Administrator Milton Dohoney Jr. “We look forward to the important contributions, conversations and initiatives that will be happening through Laura’s work, collaboration and leadership, helping ensure city operations and services are conducted in a positive and inclusive manner.”
