Posted5/11/2021 5:22 AM Geneace Williams had no interest in working for a city government, even after a friend sent her an intriguing job post for a new diversity, equity and inclusion manager in Naperville. With years of experience as a diversity consultant, the Burr Ridge resident was hoping to expand into a full-time role in the private sector. But when information about the Naperville position appeared before her a second time, she decided to take a closer look.
She read about the city's efforts to create an "inclusive community that values diversity," as is reflected in its amended mission statement. She watched Mayor Steve Chirico's state of the city address from last May, including a segment in which residents of various backgrounds and demographics described the welcoming nature of Naperville and proclaimed, "I belong."