By Caelin Grambau, University of Pittsburgh English Writing & Spanish double major
On May 30th, Governor Josh Shapiro and Secretary of Administration Neil Weaver announced Norman Bristol Colón as the new Commonwealth Chief Diversity Officer. In his new role, Bristol Colón will “lead diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across Commonwealth agencies” according to a statement from Pennsylvania Pressroom.
Norman Bristol Colón currently serves as the chief diversity officer for the Department of Community and Economic Development and he is the founder and chair of the Pennsylvania Latino Convention. In a statement via the PA Pressroom, Governor Shapiro highlighted Bristol Colón’s experience, saying “Norman Bristol Colón has years of experience working to advance equity and inclusion in government, and together, we will work to make sure no community in our Commonwealth is left behind as we continue bringing people together to deliver real results for Pennsylvania.”
Additionally, Pennsylvania Secretary of Administration Neil Weaver expressed confidence in Bristol Colón’s election to the position. “Norman’s working knowledge of Commonwealth operations and our workforce, combined with a proven history of working collaboratively across departments, have prepared him to succeed in this new role in the Shapiro Administration,” Secretary Weaver said in the PA Pressroom statement.
Norman Bristol Colón, who is originally from Puerto Rico, moved to Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1992. There, he graduated from J.P. McCaskey High School before going on to graduate from Pennsylvania State University in State College, PA. Now, Bristol Colón resides in Lancaster Township.
In a LinkedIn post announcing his election to the role, Bristol Colón wrote “It is truly an honor to serve the Shapiro Administration in such a transcendental role as we collectively work to transform our state government into a world-class place to work, serve, and formulate innovative policy, initiatives, and programs.”
“Pennsylvania is more diverse than ever before. In moving forward to a shared prosperity, embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging values is fundamental to our Commonwealth’s future. The vision of the Governor is for a Commonwealth where everyone is respected and valued. I am looking forward to working with members of the cabinet, fellow state employees, partners, and stakeholders in translating that vision into a government that truly represents its people,” Bristol Colón said.
Previously, Bristol Colón served as the head of Latino affairs under the administration of former PA Governor Ed Rendell. Outside of his governmental work, he is also the chair and founder of the Pennsylvania Latino Convention. On a local level he has helped to shape diversity and inclusion at both the high school and university levels and introduce English-as-a-second language (ESL) programs for international and ESL students.
In his new role as Chief Diversity Officer of the Pennsylvania Commonwealth, Bristol Colón will work closely with local businesses and government to ensure that diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the forefront of the commonwealth’s workforce, while also incorporating these prerogatives into the policies, decisions and programs of the state’s administrations. ¡Felicitaciones, Norman!
