Hillsborough Names 1st Leader Of Diversity, Equity And Inclusion

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — Continuing a focus on providing equal opportunity for all residents, Hillsborough County has named Cheryl Howell the first-ever assistant county attorney for equity and community impact.

Howell, who has been the county’s affordable housing director since 2017, will help guide county policy to make sure all residents, including historically marginalized groups, have equal access to resources and opportunities to succeed and thrive.

In her new position, Howell will oversee the soon-to-be-created Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, which will center on jobs and economic development, affordable housing, health and human services, children’s services, and transportation, as well as criminal justice, the digital divide, and other issues.

Hillsborough County has been striving to address the causes and impacts of historic inequities on residents. In 2021, the board of county commissioners commissioned a Community Equity Profile that identified current inequities and recommended solutions, including the creation of a centralized office focusing on equity and diversity.

Throughout her three-decade career, Howell has been deeply involved in affordable housing, community development, economic inclusion and social services issues. In addition to her role as the county’s affordable housing director, she serves as a board member of the Florida Housing Coalition, Tampa Family Health Center and as executive director of the Florida Community Development Association.