Robin Derryberry named to serve on Tennessee Human Rights Commission

Robin Derryberry
Robin Derryberry

NASHVILLE -- State House Speaker Beth Harwell, R-Nashville, has appointed Robin Derryberry of Chattanooga to serve on the Tennessee Human Rights Commission.

Derryberry, who along with her husband, Andy Derryberry, are principals at Derryberry Public Relations, will be one of nine members on the commission.

Among the panel's responsibilities is enforcement of the state's anti-discrimination laws which prohibit discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodation on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, religion and sex.

"I am excited Robin has agreed to serve on the Tennessee Humans Rights Commission," Harwell said in a news release. "As a leader in her community, Robin has a proven track record of service and a passion for improving the lives of Tennesseans."

Beverly Watts, executive director of the Human Rights Commission, said of Derryberry that "we're pleased to receive such a qualified appointment. ... She has an exceptional service record, which will aid our mission to prevent discrimination through enforcement and education."

Commissioners are appointed to the commission on a nonpartisan basis and are intended to be representative of employees, business owners, unions, religious groups, human rights groups and the general public.

Other commission responsibilities include ensuring the state of Tennessee complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 which prohibits discrimination based on race, color and national origin by state agencies receiving federal financial assistance.

A seventh generation Tennessean, Derryberry earned her undergraduate and Master's degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. She practices public, media and government relations.

She was honored as one of Chattanooga's "Women of Distinction," and serves as a Member of the UTC Chancellor's Roundtable; and, Executive Committee Member of the Board of The Partnership for Families, Children and Adults.

Her term as a representative of East Tennessee runs until June 30, 2017.

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