Remarks for Secretary Tippett
NCDOT Diversity Council Meeting
Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Boardroom, Transportation Building
10 a.m.
Good morning.
Thank you, Gina, for the kind introduction.
You are certainly an asset to the department as Director of Minority Affairs, and I thank you for going the extra mile as Coordinator for the Diversity Council.
I'd also like to thank each member of the Council for stepping up to the plate to continue the positive work of the previous Council.
I, too, share your vision for incorporating every individual, regardless of race, national origin, sex, religion or any characteristic that makes us one of a kind.
That is why an essential part of my agenda includes new and better ways for expanding diversity across the entire department.
As you know, I announced the formation of the department's first Diversity Council in 2003 and charged them with identifying diversity trends and opportunities at DOT.
The first Council worked diligently for two years and successfully completed their mission.
Now, we must work together to build upon their commitment and carry out those recommendations.
Each of you understands the importance of fulfilling this goal, and that's why you were chosen to serve on this Council.
In fact, more and more businesses are recognizing the value of these types of groups.
Just last month, the Triad Business Journal featured a special insert on diversity.
One article highlighted the importance of calling upon individuals from all backgrounds through groups like this Council as a resource for feedback in order to bring unique perspectives to the table.
This is also my vision for the Diversity Council.
When I formed the Council nearly two years ago, I envisioned a team committed to changing the way we do business by promoting an understanding of diversity and inclusiveness.
And it's clear from the first meeting that you all possess that same level of dedication.
Chief Deputy Secretary Dan Devane informed me that the kick-off meeting last month was a big success, and I was pleased to learn of the Council's two recommendations.
You asked for reports from the new EEO officer Phillip Bickham and a more detailed report from Personnel Director Herb Henderson.
Phillip and Herb are both here today, and we look forward to hearing their reports.
As you can see, we are 100 percent behind you as you work to strengthen the department as a whole - one individual at a time.
I realize that we cannot achieve our goals within these four walls, which is why I have called upon every individual within DOT.
As part of the department's internal efforts to address diversity and cultural issues, we now require all employees attend a refresher course on diversity in the workplace.
Employees from across the spectrum will attend this training - including supervisors and senior management.
I have also asked senior staff to work with Gina and be included on the agenda at these monthly meetings.
Participation of all people - from field personnel who work on the front lines to senior level management - is crucial to helping us reach and exceed our diversity goals.
After all, diversity is the one thing we all truly have in common.
As the contemporary American author Doug Floyd once said: "You don't get harmony when everybody sings the same note."
I look forward to hearing your report based on the prior Council's recommendations, and you have my full support as we work together to create an even better DOT.
Again, thank you for serving in this very important role.
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