Diversity & Inclusion

Worcester Polytechnic Institute has named an alumna, the Rev. Debora Jackson, as the new dean of the Robert A. Foisie Business School, the first woman and person of color to do so.

The New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund, a fund established this year by senior-level Black and brown corporate executives in Massachusetts, announced its first round of grant funding Friday, including $100,000 distributed between Family Health Center of Worcester and African Community Education, also based in Worcester.

UMass Memorial Health Care has hired a new vice president to oversee diversity and inclusion, a new position at the Worcester-based hospital system that's the largest employer in Central Massachusetts.

The Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor's visitors centers in Worcester and Whitinsville are closed because of the coronavirus pandemic. But park leaders and partners are ensuring there's still available activities, particularly for those with mobility issues.

Some cannabis retailers have threatened to sue the state Cannabis Control Commission if it votes to adopt its latest set of industry rules on Monday as expected.

Two Worcester organizations have received a total of $66,400 in state funding to help reduce the spread of coronavirus in communities of color in the cities hardest hit by the pandemic in Massachusetts.

10) Black Families Together convenes hundreds of Black people in Worcester, to address racism and the inequities existing for Black people. Priorities include business ownership and access to capital. 

UMass Medical School has hired a new vice chancellor for diversity and inclusion, the Worcester school announced Friday.

The City of Worcester has named Stephanie Williams as its new chief diversity officer, the city announced on Tuesday.

WBJ will host a web forum centered around building a better business through diversity and inclusion on Thursday, featuring speakers from sectors including nonprofits, education and banking.