The purpose of the creation of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission is to address Resolution 43 Declaring Racism as a Public Health Crisis in Erie County.
In accordance with The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 H.R.1319, the function of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commission shall be to organize a structure which will invest in racially diverse populations by granting funding that creates opportunities for minority populations, lobbies for inclusive policy, and empowers minority populations throughout Erie County while adhering to the ARPA guidelines and policies.
As of September 28, 2021, Erie County Council has seated the full board of directors, which was formally put forth by former County Executive Kathy Dahlkemper. On October 20, 2021, the board held its first official meeting and elected officers.
Diverse Erie Commission Board
Board Chairman Dr. Ricardo Escajadillo
Board Vice Chairman Jonathan Atkinson
Secretary Brandy Cortes
Treasurer Marie A. Wells
Board Member Dr. Sarah E. Carter
Board Member Paul Kokhanevich
Board Member Tiffany L. LaVette
Board Member Saeedullah Taraky
Board Member Gwendolyn White
Solicitor Timothy S. Wachter
Chief Administrative Officer Gary N. Lee
Administrative Assistant Devan D. Mitchell
Diverse Erie Commission Board regular meetings are as follows:
Thursday, April 20, 2023, 6:00 PM-7:00 PM
Thursday, May 18, 2023, 6:00 PM-7:00 PM
Thursday, June 15, 2023, 6:00 PM-7:00 PM
Thursday, July 20, 2023, 6:00 PM-7:00 PM
The commission’s office is located at 1128 State Street, Suite 300, Erie, PA 16501.
Committee Meetings between May and July of 2023:
To Be Announced
The Executive Committee:
Board Chairman Dr. Ricardo Escajadillo
Board Vice Chairman Jonathan Atkinson
Secretary Brandy Cortes
Treasurer Marie A. Wells
The Finance Committee:
Treasurer Marie A. Wells
Board Member Dr. Sarah E. Carter
Board Member Paul Kokhanevich
The Grants Review Committee:
Board Vice Chairman Jonathan Atkinson
Board Member Tiffany L. LaVette
Board Member Saeedullah Taraky
All committee meetings are held at the Diverse Erie Headquarters located at 1128 State Street, Suite 300, Erie, PA 16501.
Please visit diverseerie.org for additional information.
Also, you may visit our other social platforms.
