TBell1@smcgov.org

Tia Bell (She/Her) is the Office of Diversity & Equity’s (ODE) Health Equity Coordinator and so much more. Tia’s desire to engage in supportive community work was sparked by her upbringing and keen awareness of disparities as a child, she states “from the time I was young I always felt an emotional reaction to things that I believed weren’t right”. If Tia had a superpower, it would be relationship building. Building rapport with those in community with her has been central to her journey throughout her career, both as a psychologist and now our Health Equity Initiative Coordinator. It is evident by her friendly gaze, soft yet energetic demeanor, and tireless work ethic whether its within local non-profits or for our Health Equity Initiatives (HEI); Tia takes the time to know people at their core.  

In her short 3 months, “and two and a half weeks”, Tia has proudly played an integral role in collaborating with our African American Community Initiative (AACI) to facilitate SMC’s Black History Month events which she describes as “something so special”. When asked about some of the values she possesses she replies, “I value being able to learn, unlearn, and relearn about communities and uplift voices that have historically been silenced.”  Tia also gives praise to her fellow colleagues when describing her time with ODE as of now. Tia mentions “I am super proud of the collaborative strategic planning process Tania, and I are working towards with the HEI support systems. We don’t meet just to meet, our HEI’s have a purpose which is to drive action and change.” 

Within her short time at ODE, she has been able to support, save space for, and bolster those around her simply by bringing her authentic self to the workplace. Tia leads with honesty, empathy, and humility when working with our HEI’s and it is evident from the way we hear others speak so highly of her. ODE is greatly appreciative of the breadth of knowledge Tia brings with her experience in the field of psychology to ensure the social determinants of health are available for ALL. Tia sums it up beautifully commenting, “I hope it is clear how much I prioritize relationships and everyone’s personal experience with respecting each other. I have always been fascinated by people and want my community to know my door is always open and I am forever here to support.” We at ODE thank you for joining our team and look forward to the great work you will push forward.