ST. PAUL, MN - Minnesota Human Rights Commissioner Kevin Lindsey today announced the appointment of Rowzat Shipchandler as Deputy Commissioner.
Deputy Commissioner Shipchandler brings a wealth of experience and leadership in racial equity, multiculturalism, community engagement, project management and operations. As Deputy Commissioner, she will oversee the operations of the Department.
"We are pleased with the leadership and expertise that Deputy Shipchandler will bring to the Department," Commissioner Lindsey said. "Rowzat is uniquely suited to help lead MDHR's diversity and inclusion efforts in realizing Governor Mark Dayton's commitment to equal employment opportunities, equal contracting opportunities, and full participation in civic life for all Minnesotans."
Rowzat comes to the Minnesota Department of Human Rights from The Saint Paul Foundation, an affiliate of Minnesota Philanthropy Partners. The Saint Paul Foundation has been elevating the issue of racial equity for many years, efforts which were led by Rowzat for the past 10 years. During her tenure at the foundation, Rowzat led a dialogue program focused on race, established the annual Facing Race Ambassador Awards and staffed culturally specific grantmaking programs.
"As a daughter of immigrants, diversity and inclusion is an area that has intrigued me throughout my career," Deputy Shipchandler said. "This is an opportunity to make a difference on a larger scale."
Shipchandler's career includes diverse experience from serving as a community organizer to helping the Minnesota Crime Victim Reparations Board design and outreach program for communities of color in 1996. At the Greater Twin Cities United Way, she spent five years supporting small nonprofits that serve immigrants and communities of color.
For more information about the Governor's Diversity and Inclusion Council, watch the
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Contact: Christine Dufour at 651-539-1118
or Christine.Dufour@state.mn.us
Minnesota Department of Human Rights, Communications Department
Freeman Building, 625 Robert Street North, Saint Paul, MN 55155