Tennessee Human Rights Commission (THRC) Executive Director Muriel Malone Nolen has appointed Diona E. Layden, attorney, as ‘deputy director.’ Layden was appointed on September 16.
As deputy director, Ms. Layden will work closely with the executive director to support the commission’s daily operations, including enforcement and administration, policy and procedure development, agency budget, and staff supervision. In addition, she will provide oversight for mediation, intake, and investigative processes.
“Diona has a decorated history serving the state of Tennessee in various executive leadership positions including ‘deputy general counsel’ and ‘deputy director.’ Her professional experience will make her a valuable addition to the commission. I look forward to having her join the team,” said THRC Executive Director Muriel Malone Nolan.
Layden returns to state government after serving as the ‘special collections librarian’ at Fisk University. She served 15+ years with the state of Tennessee in various capacities including ‘deputy general counsel’ with the Tennessee Department of Health’s Office of General Counsel; ‘deputy director’ with the Tennessee Department of Health’s Division of Health, Licensure and Regulation; and ‘hearing officer’ with the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia and earned both a Master of Science degree and a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville.
The THRC also recently appointed new leadership to its Legal Division. William Wade was appointed as ‘general counsel’ on July 14. Wade joined the commission in 2018, previously serving as the commission’s ‘assistant attorney’ and ‘associate general counsel.’ As general counsel, Wade will provide legal counsel to the THRC and support the commission in various capacities including advising investigations, supporting Title VI compliance monitoring, and participating in education initiatives.
In addition, the commission appointed Christopher Cowart as ‘associate general counsel’ on September 1. Cowart brings a wealth of experience to the commission having previously served as ‘general counsel’ with the Knoxville Leadership Foundation and ‘assistant district attorney’ for the Fourth Judicial District Attorney General’s Office in Sevierville.
The mission of the Tennessee Human Rights Commission is “safeguarding individuals from discrimination through education and enforcement.” THRC is the primary state agency responsible for enforcing civil rights laws in Tennessee in employment, housing, and public accommodations. The commission prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, religion, sex, disability (employment and housing), age (40 and over in employment), familial status (housing), and retaliation.
