Denver Human Services (DHS) will soon embrace a new era of cultural and emotional enrichment with the addition of Ms. Consuelo Hernandez as the Culture & Wellbeing Officer. Starting October 23, Hernandez will lead initiatives that aim to bolster the organizational ambiance with an eye towards Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), according to the City and County of Denver. Growing up in Denver’s Northside neighborhood, Hernandez returns to her roots bringing a diverse background of public service experience.
In what's poised to be a conjunction of wellness and workplace strategy, her responsibilities involve not only enhancing the culture within DHS but also extending these efforts to the service recipients. Executive Director Anne-Marie Braga said, as per the City and County of Denver, "Her experience and passion for supporting the Denver community and fostering an inclusive environment will be invaluable as we continue to nurture our staff and the communities we serve." Hernandez's experience spans 15 years, with notable achievements in EDI leadership and advocacy across state and national governments.
Hernandez's journey with EDI began in Colorado's governmental landscape where her interventions are cited as pioneering efforts. During her 13-year tenure with the Colorado state government, she has been credited with significant strides in inclusive policy-making and training. Her efforts culminated in partaking in the draft of the EDI Executive Order, signed by Governor Polis in 2020. Hernandez boasts a Master of Public Health degree and a series of certifications, including yoga instruction and somatic coaching. These qualifications underscore her passion for self-care and collective healing as cornerstones of her approach to her work.
Bringing a well-rounded lifestyle that meshes wellness alongside professional dedication, Consuelo Hernandez's proclivity for salsa dancing, rock climbing, and singing to 90's R&B is matched by her time spent outside breathing in the fresh Colorado air. These personal interests align with her professional philosophy which espouses a holistic view of individual and organizational health. Communities in her childhood neighborhood of the Northside can look forward to an advocate well-acquainted with the local ethos and needs. Hernandez's position in DHS is not just another career move, it reflects a homecoming, one where her career and life experiences come full circle to serve the Denver community.
