Chambana Sun

Community Relations Specialists Betsy Barclay and Mikal Washington from the Equity and Engagement Department participated in the 8th Annual Culturally Responsive Evaluation and Assessment (CREA) Conference. Held from April 8-11, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois, the University of Illinois College of Education hosted the event, which gathered scholars and community leaders nationwide.

The conference featured various sessions aimed at incorporating cultural responsiveness into evaluative practices. The event offered city staff a chance to enhance their equitable community engagement approaches. The theme for this year, "Relational Responsibilities," underscored the significance of establishing and maintaining relationships, emphasizing the ethical and cultural duties required when engaging with diverse communities. The attendance of Barclay and Washington demonstrates the city's dedication to equity-centered practices and ongoing learning towards more inclusive and responsive public service.