SALT LAKE CITY, Utah -- Col. Jenise Carroll, 75th Air Base Wing commander, was celebrated April 30 as an honoree at the Hardware Creative Collective event here.
The inaugural event honored seven “Black Creatives” who have made a significant impact in building inclusive communities across Utah’s landscape and featured Black leaders in the arts, education, fashion, film, health, government, venture, and tech.
According to Sui Lang Panoke, the host of the event and senior vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion for Zions Bank, Carroll was nominated and selected for the important work she is doing in the community.
“Colonel Carroll has been an inspiration to all of us. Her leadership exemplifies the bravery and courage of the American Airmen who honorably serve our nation. It has been an honor to host, partner, and work alongside Col. Carroll during her time here in Utah,” said Panoke. “She has had an extraordinary impact on me, our partners, allies, and communities that we serve. She will be missed here in Utah.”
The event featured a panel discussion where the honorees were asked to talk about their diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility innovations and what inspires them in the Utah community.
“What really inspires me is looking into the eyes of those that are coming behind me, letting them know that anything is possible,” said Carroll. “It’s only impossible if you don’t believe, and I believe there is nothing that we should not do to break down barriers for the next generation. The youth of today inspires me to push forward.”
As the 75th Air Base Wing commander, Carroll has been a strong advocate for DEI&A initiatives on the installation and in the community. Notably, Carroll led the way in Hill AFB standing up its DEI&A office last year and enhanced partnerships with the Davis County School District to address racial discrimination, bullying, special needs, accountability, and the path forward for the district.
“I am so grateful to be honored alongside those who are making Utah a more inclusive community,” said Carroll after the event. “I was happy to represent the U.S. Air Force and the efforts and resiliency of Team Hill on that stage.”