The Board is pleased to announce Adedapo 'Dapo' Orederu as its first-ever Chief Diversity Officer, effective today. As Chief Diversity Officer, Mr. Orederu will represent the agency in all matters concerning our growing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts.

Guided by the Board's DEI unit and DEI Council, Mr. Orederu will work with the Executive team to develop inclusive practices, policies, and programs that embrace diversity in all forms. He'll also be responsible for implementing, evaluating, and monitoring DEI and equal opportunity activities.

Mr. Orederu most recently served as a training specialist for the Board and has played a key role in supporting the recently formed DEI unit. Last year, he was also selected by Board leadership to serve on the Board's inaugural DEI Council. While he has exercised his passion for diversity work at the Board, it is an area in which he has long been immersed. Prior to joining the Board, Mr. Orederu worked at the New York State Office of the State Comptroller as a training specialist with Human Resources where, among other activities, he developed and delivered training on DEI topics.

Mr. Orederu received his undergraduate degree in Africana Studies from the University at Albany (UAlbany). During his time at UAlbany, he studied under a number of world-renowned professors within the diversity, equity, and inclusion space that helped shape the perspectives he has today. Mr. Orederu was born in Nigeria and emigrated to the United States, and now calls the Capital Region home.

"I am thrilled to appoint Dapo to this important position, the very establishment of which is a powerful step forward and demonstrates the agency's commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion - both for Board staff and our stakeholders," said Chair Clarissa M. Rodriguez. "The Board is dedicated to protecting the rights of employees and employers, and I am certain Dapo will further this mission by helping to create a more inclusive and equitable workplace."