Mueller Appoints Diversity Compliance/Inclusion Officer

Posted by South Bend - Elkhart Regional Partnership
Diversity & Inclusion, Talent Attraction & Retention, News Article, Resources, Press Release, Newsletter
| January 30, 2020

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 23, 2020

Mueller Appoints Diversity Compliance/Inclusion Officer

Today Mayor James Mueller announced the appointment of Michael A. Patton as the City’s second Diversity Compliance/Inclusion Officer. In this position, Patton will drive inclusive practices within the City and chart the strategy for and implementation of the inclusive procurement and contracting ordinance for minority and women business enterprises.

“Pastor Patton’s willingness to serve in this key role is great news for our city,” said Mayor James Mueller. “I’ve seen firsthand his ability to lead difficult conversations honestly with grace and build bridges that bring people together. I know he’ll hit the ground running to advance us toward our ambitious goals.“

Patton is an Air Force Veteran who served his country for over six years. He has served as the President of the South Bend Branch NAACP for the past year. He has an extensive background in diversity, equity and inclusion working as the President of the South Bend Urban League and as a consultant for the Penn-Harris-Madison School District. He received his undergraduate degree in Organizational Management from Bethel University and recently graduated from the University of Notre Dame with an Executive Master’s Non-Profit Administration degree.

“I am excited about the opportunity to serve the City of South Bend as its Diversity Compliance/Inclusion Officer,” said Michael Patton. “I look forward to assisting Minority Business Enterprises (MBE’s) and Women Business Enterprises (WBE’s) shift mindsets and reframe the narrative of diversity through education, outreach, and advocacy. I will work to create equitable opportunities for all of our residents.”

Mayor Mueller led the creation of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and its addition to his first budget as Chief of Staff to former Mayor Pete Buttigieg. He was also instrumental in drafting Mayor Pete’s Executive Order (No. 01-2016) establishing a city-wide diversity and inclusion initiative.

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CONTACT:
Kacey Gergely
kgergely@southbendin.gov