Excerpted from Public Now.com

10/24/2023 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/24/2023 15:32

Published on October 24, 2023

DENVER - Mayor Mike Johnston announced his decision to appoint Dr. Ben Sanders as the Chief Equity Officer and visionary leader at the helm of The Mayor's Office of Social Equity & Innovation (OSEI).

"Dr. Ben Sanders brings deep expertise and experience in social justice and organizational change to our team," Mayor Mike Johnston said. "Ben sets us on an upward trajectory toward our mission to build a truly vibrant Denver."

Ben embodies a unique blend of academic rigor, community engagement, and a passion for social change. He comes to OSEI with an unwavering commitment to catapult OSEI and the city of Denver into a regional, statewide, and national epicenter of excellence in equity work within local government.

"The city of Denver and OSEI are uniquely positioned to be a regional, state, and national leader in the space of racial and social equity in local government. We have the opportunity to establish sustainable, data-driven, community-informed norms for racial and social equity in local government. These norms will not only improve life in Denver but provide applicable models for equity offices and initiatives across the state and the country," Sanders said.

His excitement knows no bounds as he embarks on a journey to align OSEI's programmatic efforts with Mayor Johnston's visionary priorities, the unique needs of city departments, and the invaluable input and feedback from the diverse communities that make Denver the vibrant tapestry it is.

"I'm thrilled to rejoin the Mayor's Office of Social Equity & Innovation, particularly because Mayor Johnston's vision for a vibrant, inclusive Denver resonates with me in a time when political divisions are prevalent. I believe in his determined goal of ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, orientation, or station in life can lead a fulfilling life - is an ambitious goal worthy of our best collective efforts." Sanders said.

Most recently, Dr. Sanders served as Deputy Chief of Staff to the Denver Department of Transportation & Infrastructure (DOTI), where he directed department-wide equity initiatives and provided invaluable strategic advisement to DOTI's leadership.

Beyond his professional dedication, Dr. Sanders and shares his life with three remarkable children, ages 17, 15, and 2, who inspire him to champion the cause of equity and justice with unwavering determination and boundless hope.