Governor Scott Appoints Florida State College Employee to Florida Commission on Human Relations

Céline: Michell, what led to your appointment to the Florida Commission on Human Relations?

Michell: I have done a lot of work in the past with the homeless and disenfranchised, and have long been a proponent of everyone having the same rights and privileges apart from their socio-economic status.

Céline: Can you tell us a little bit about what your role will be?

Michell: The commission will be working to prevent unlawful discrimination by ensuring that all people in Florida are treated fairly and have access to opportunities in employment, housing and certain public accommodations; and to promote mutual respect among groups through education and partnership.

Céline: What does this appointment mean to you?

Michell: This appointment is a culmination of everything I have worked so hard to achieve. There is strength in numbers; I will now be part of a body of people that have the same desires and passions I have. I know together we will be successful in bringing awareness to the need for everyone to be treated with dignity and respect in Florida; and have the resources made available to them to rise above the negatives in their life if they so choose.

Céline: How long have you been at the College?

My work at the college began 2 months ago, but I can truly say that I have already developed a great respect for Florida State College at Jacksonville. I have seen evidence of the College working diligently to provide education to individuals who may otherwise not have the opportunity to get a college degree or technical certification.

Céline: How would you describe your job here at the College?

I am the Facility Manager for the Urban Resource Center (URC). The URC holds the majority of the military, public safety and security classes for the college. Interestingly enough, we provide Brownfields Training in the URC. Brownfields is a program that provides environmental waste training to unemployed and underemployed individuals, affording them the opportunity to become gainfully employed. I love that!!!

Céline: Michell has an incredible professional background which includes a career in the Military!

I entered the Air Force in 1987 and worked as an Air Traffic Controller the first 15 years of my career. While in the Air Force I took advantage of my educational benefits and was able to obtain a bachelor's degree in Computer information Systems and a Master's degree in Human Resource Management. At my 15-year mark I received a commission as an officer in the Medical Service Corps and worked in a Medical Treatment facility until I retired at the rank of Captain (O-3). 

Michell Long is appointed for a term on the Florida Commission on Human Relations that began on November 15th and ends on September 3, 2015. The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

The Commission is dedicated to helping businesses create a more tolerant and productive workforce and avoid costly litigation. In communities, the Commission works to prevent or resolve conflicts and discrimination by promoting mutual respect and raising awareness on human and civil rights issues. The Commission is committed to enforcing Florida's civil rights and Fair Housing laws.
 

Click here to read the Governor's announcement.

Click here to learn more about the Florida Commission on Human Relations.