Gaithersburg, MD (February 28, 2023) Gaithersburg City Manager Tanisha Briley announced the selection of Hazel Monae as the new Racial Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (REDI) Program Manager  within the City Manager’s Office. Hazel will begin her role with the City on March 6, 2023, and will be introduced at the Mayor and City Council meeting that evening.

Hazel comes to Gaithersburg with more than 12 years of experience working in racial equity and leadership development. In her most recent role, she served as a Talent Consultant at Building for Mission where she developed and implemented aligned equity visions and Race Equity, Diversity and Inclusion action plans for clients.

“We are delighted to have found such a highly qualified candidate to serve in this new City position,” said Tanisha Briley. “Hazel’s extensive background will serve well in advancing Gaithersburg’s racial equity, diversity, and inclusion initiatives.”

"I am honored to be called to such a vital position in the City of Gaithersburg,” says Hazel. “I am energized by all the relationships that we will build together, and I am hopeful for all the possibilities that are ahead. I can't wait to meet this wonderful community!" 

Hazel holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Willamette University and a Master of Divinity from Boston University School of Theology.

Hazel’s work will include providing leadership to advance the City’s racial equity, diversity, and inclusion goals and implementing the City’s Racial Equity Awareness & Action Plan. She will oversee the development and implementation of programs and policies aimed at identifying and addressing systemic barriers within the organization to improve equitable service delivery.

For more information, please contact the Gaithersburg City Manager’s office at 301-258-6310 or visit the City’s website at www.gaithersburgmd.gov