Mayor Jon Costas has named Heath Carter as Chairman of the Human Relations Council. Costas established the HRC in 2008 to advance and support community inclusion. “We look forward to having Heath’s leadership and expertise on the Human Relations Council. As a city that works to be welcoming and inclusive, this council has an important role in shaping our policies and outlook,” said Mayor Jon Costas. The five-member HRC serves in an advisory role, identifying needs or opportunities to enhance human relations, and providing a forum for resolving differences.
Carter is an assistant professor of history at Valparaiso University, where he teaches a variety of courses on the modern United States. He combines expertise in the history of race and civil rights with a strong record of community involvement. He serves on the board of directors for Project Neighbors and for the Northwest Indiana African American Alliance. Carter and his wife, Thais, live in Valparaiso with their three sons, Isaiah, Samuel, and James.
Carter replaces Ivan Bodensteiner as Chairman of the AHRC. Bodensteiner has served since the council’s inception and will continue to support human relations efforts in the community. “We thank Ivan for his years of service to this council. His insight and intellect have been invaluable on the council,” said Costas.