Kalamazoo Times

William "Alvin" Gray has been named the first director of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) during a recent meeting of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners.

Gray began his new position in the second week of March, according to Kalamazoo County, which stated that Gray will lead the organization in applying wide-ranging programing, along with direction at every phase of the organization.

Gray said that he was excited to begin his new job and hopes to be an advocate for the community. 

"I'm honored and humbled to have been chosen for the director of diversity, equity and inclusion for Kalamazoo County," Gray told said, according to the Kalamazoo County press release. "Certainly, I'm excited and eager to meet with new colleagues, committees and co-partners on the job, as well as in the community. There is much to learn from the people concerning the area. Moreover, I desire to learn what love and justice look like to the people of Kalamazoo County and how I can best serve in that context."

Gray will lead a mentorship program that will cultivate cultural aptitude throughout the government of Kalamazoo County.

He has over 18 years of experience utilizing anti-racism efforts and has held similar positions with Habitat for Humanity, Grand Rapids Community College, Urban Young Life Grand Rapids and The Other Way Ministries.

"The Board and the DEI Hiring Committee were intentional about the search to bring on a DEI leader who aligns with the core values of our community and has the experience, perspective and drive to make progress and continue to focus on meaningful countywide change,” said Diversity Equity and Inclusion Hiring Committee Chair Tami Rey said, according to the county's press release.