Gov. Branstad appoints San Wong director of Iowa Department of Human Rights
State of Iowa Seal
(DES MOINES) – Gov. Branstad today announced he has appointed San Wong the director of the Iowa Department of Human Rights.
“I am pleased to announce the appointment of San Wong as director of the Iowa Department of Human Rights,” said Branstad. “Ms. Wong has worked in many capacities to eliminate barriers for minorities in Iowa. I am confident that Ms. Wong will excel in ensuring that all Iowans have the opportunity to contribute and benefit from the state’s economic, cultural and social opportunities.”
The Iowa Department of Human rights is charged with ensuring basic rights and freedoms for all Iowans. The department works to empower underrepresented Iowans and assists racial and ethnic minority groups and those with disabilities in individual policy advocacy.
“I am honored and excited for this opportunity to expand my work with vulnerable and underrepresented individuals,” said Wong. “I have faith in the tenacity, ingenuity and generosity of the people of Iowa and plan to engage all Iowans in this endeavor.”
Ms. Wong currently works as the Director of Workforce and Education Initiatives at Des Moines Area Community College.
Ms. Wong has served on several councils and boards in the Des Moines Area. Wong was the president-elect of the Asian American council from 2002-2004, president of the board of directors for the Chrysalis Foundation from June 2009 to June 2011, board chair of the Iowa Asian Alliance from 2006-2007and president of the Iowa Asian Foundation from 2005-2009.
Ms. Wong has received numerous awards for her service to the community including 2006 Des Moines Area Community College Foundation Community Service Award, 2007 Governor’s Volunteer Award, 2009 Commission on the Status of Iowans of Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Leadership Award and the 2009 Business Record Women of Influence.
Ms. Wong will start July 11, 2011. Her nomination is subject to Iowa Senate confirmation.
For more information, please visit www.governor.iowa.gov.
