Wortham-White Named Dubuque's Multicultural Family Center Director
PRESS RELEASE
By
Aaron Hepker
Story Created:
Mar 2, 2012 at 1:46 PM CDT
Story Updated:
Mar 2, 2012 at 1:53 PM CDT
DUBUQUE, Iowa – Dubuque Leisure Services Manager Marie Ware has announced that Zorana Wortham-White has been named the new director of the Multicultural Family Center. Wortham-White will begin March 19 and replaces Tara Velez who recently began as the executive director of St. Mark’s Community Center.
“Zorana has proven examples of leadership, planning and program development. She is a bridge builder and has on-the-ground experience with diversity training and awareness building. She brings a wealth of knowledge in multicultural environments and organizations,” said Ware “Her most recent service as director of diversity and inclusion programs at Diversity Focus in Cedar Rapids will complement her work at the Multicultural Family Center.”
As Multicultural Family Center director, Wortham-White will work closely with the over 70 community partnerships already established at the Center. Gil Spence, President of the Multicultural Family Center Board shared, “we are excited for Zorana to build new partnerships and reach out to the community in new ways. We have a strong history of partnerships and building relationships and Zorana’s skills will take us to the next level.”
“I am excited to be a part of the dynamic progress the City of Dubuque has already embarked upon in promoting intercultural competence and celebrating the wealth of diversity in the area,” said Wortham-White. “It is an honor that, through my position as the Multicultural Family Center director, I have been allowed this opportunity to have an integral role in helping to continue with the process of building bridges between entities that will result in great relationships that lead to continued progress for this great city and the citizens of Dubuque.”
The Multicultural Family Center has, in its short history, built upon its mission to “empower all families and community members of Dubuque to reach their potential and build unity out of diversity.” Program participation increased by over 50 percent over a year ago. Cultural events large and small increase awareness and understanding of local diversity. The annual “Taste of the World” event is fast approaching on Saturday, March 31, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Five Flags Center. Taste of the World shares entertainment, food and activities from over 20 countries around the world.
Wortham-White has professional experience as a diversity and sociology instructor, assistant director of external relations and strategic planning, a practicing attorney, case manager and more. Her various roles have allowed her to work with and for a teen AIDS program, mentoring program, and youth shelter. Wortham-White holds a bachelor’s degree in criminology and master’s degree in sociology from the University of Northern Iowa and a juris doctorate from the University of Iowa. She was admitted to the Iowa Bar in 2007.
