Carmela Thornton is the new director of Missouri’s Office of Equal Opportunity, part of the state’s Office of Administration.
“OEO is here to support an inclusive culture that provides equal opportunity for all employees to realize their full potential,” Thornton said in the news release announcing her appointment. “In addition, we strive to encourage and facilitate the utilization of certified minority- and women-owned business enterprises by state executive departments in state procurements.”
She served as the assistant director in OA’s Division of Purchasing from 2001-18.
Before that, Thornton was the Minority and Women Business Enterprise certification coordinator and program coordinator in OA’s Minority Program — what is now called OEO.
The Office of Equal Opportunity “exists to promote a diversified workforce within state government, and to assist women and minorities in developing opportunities to contract with the state — economically empowering traditionally under-served communities and improving the overall fiscal vitality of the state of Missouri,” according to the news release.
“Carmela’s years of dedication and experience in the Office of Administration made her an excellent fit to take on the role as OEO director,” Commissioner Sarah Steelman said in the news release. “She is committed to help minority- and women-owned businesses in our state succeed.”
Thornton holds two certifications — Certified Public Procurement Officer and as a Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing and a master’s degree in business administration in management from Lincoln University and currently is working on a bachelor’s degree in management information systems from Columbia College.