Creating equity and opportunity in state government

Minnesota got its first chief equity officer this year. In April, Stephanie Burrage stepped into this new role in state government where she’ll advise Gov. Tim Walz and his administration on addressing racial disparities and issues of concern for communities of color in Minnesota. 

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with Burrage about childhood summers working on her grandparents’ Michigan blueberry farm, what she’s been hearing in listening sessions across the state and how she sees newly-passed legislation creating a more level playing field for all Minnesotans. 

We’ll also hear from Priscilla Stallings, Minnesota’s chief inclusion officer, who is charged with diversifying the state workforce and bringing equitable policies to recruitment and retention in state government jobs.

Guests: 

• Stephanie Burrage is Minnesota’s chief equity officer and oversees the new Office of Equity, Opportunity and Accessibility. She advises Governor Tim Walz and his administration on addressing racial disparities and issues of concern to communities of color in Minnesota. She served previously as deputy commissioner in the Department of Education, interim superintendent at Robbinsdale Area Schools and as a teacher and principal in Minneapolis Public Schools. 

• Priscilla Stallings is chief inclusion officer leading the Office of Inclusion housed at Minnesota Management and Budget, the state agency responsible for managing state finances, payroll and human resources. She previously worked for Ramsey County, most recently as assistant director of equity, leadership and organizational development.

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Use the audio player above to listen to the full conversation.