Tempe, the first Arizona city to pass an anti-discrimination ordinance, has hired Dr. Velicia Humes as its first chief diversity officer.

 A recent reorganization elevated the position to report directly to the city manager, a move that the city says reflects "its values of people, respect, diversity, integrity, quality and openness."

 Humes begins her work with the city on Monday, Oct. 17.

“Dr. Humes has a long, impressive background in diversity, equity and inclusion efforts," City Manager Andrew Ching said in a statement.

"The city of Tempe has a long record of successful leadership in this area. We believe that Dr. Humes will guide our efforts to ensure Tempe is a welcoming and inclusive city."

Humes is a consultant for the Wayne Regional Educational Service Agency, which provides  services to 33 school districts, including the Detroit Public School Community District.

She was director of the Scottsdale Office of Diversity and Inclusion as well as assistant executive director of human  resources and director of workforce development in Scottsdale.

She also helped create the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs at the University of Nevada Las Vegas and established its Student Ethnic Council, according to a city release.

"I am excited to be part of the Tempe community,” Humes said in a statement. “My goal is to support Tempe’s equity goals and help create spaces where people can reach their fullest potential.

"We can find joy in connecting with each other and success in working with each other.”

 Humes, who earned degrees from  Michigan State University, Lesley College in Boston and UNLV,  is a past board member of the Arizona National Forum for Black Public Administrators. 

She is married and has four adult children.