Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway has appointed Gregory McClain as the next director of the Madison Department of Civil Rights. McClain will begin the new position on Monday, Oct. 12.
McClain is an Air Force veteran who most recently served as the Equal Opportunity Manager for Montgomery County Government in Rockville, Maryland. He has more than a decade of experience working in racial equity, social justice, equal employment and public health.
“Greg will be a fantastic addition to the Department of Civil Rights. His journey to civil rights work makes him well-qualified to lead this agency with a data-driven approach focused on results for our residents,” Rhodes-Conway said in a statement.
McClain holds a bachelor’s degree in biomedical sciences and master’s degrees in business and health administration from Oklahoma State University. He also earned a master’s degree in public health from UW–Madison, where he worked in the community on efforts to prevent harm among veterans and others experiencing substance use disorders and to advance health equity.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve Madison residents and grow the impact of the Department of Civil Rights,” McClain said. “Starting from a place of honesty and transparency, I see my role as ensuring it’s a great city for everyone.”
McClain said he plans to support the department’s existing work while expanding its impact.
“I fully intend to be a champion of the department and can’t wait to amplify the important work being done by its dedicated staff,” he said.
