Naomi Sea Young Wittstruck has been named chief equity and talent officer for the United Way of Central Iowa.

Wittstruck will join the United Way on Oct. 30. In her new role, she will guide the organization’s internal and external equity initiatives.

Mary Sellers, United Way of Central Iowa president, said the work is a priority for the organization and the community, “and we are confident Naomi Sea Young Wittstruck’s combination of experience and leadership is exactly what our organization needs.”

Wittstruck previously served as director of diversity, equity and inclusion at Des Moines Area Community College, where she worked to build system-wide DEI initiatives throughout every campus of the college to create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive learning environment. Prior to that, she served in statewide and regional leadership positions with the Iowa Conference of the United Methodist Church, leading the team’s advocacy, outreach, education and training for leaders on DEI and justice initiatives.

According to a news release, Wittstruck has also been a national trainer, facilitator and organizer for the U.S. headquarters of the Fellowship of Reconciliation, organizing high school students, college students and young adult activists from across the country for various national justice initiatives in Minneapolis, Philadelphia, New York City and Washington, D.C.

“I am excited to help support and advance the dedicated efforts of United Way of Central Iowa and our community in building awareness, understanding and commitment to issues of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging,” Wittstruck said in a prepared statement. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be a part of this impactful team of leaders.”

Wittstruck has also served on the board for Monsoon Asians and Pacific Islanders in Solidarity in Des Moines, was a member of the Cornell College board of trustees, as well as serving in various leadership capacities on boards and commissions. She also has volunteered for DEI nonprofit organizations in central Iowa.

Wittstruck was hired following a national search conducted in partnership with search company Koya Partners.