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Managers renew commitment to diversity, even in tough economic times
CHICAGO — More than 500 corporate executives and diversity experts from Fortune 500 companies around the nation attended the fifth annual Leadership Forum and Awards Gala sponsored by Diversity MBA Magazine. The event, held Sept. 13 and 14 at the Chicago Wyndham Hotel, included a full day of intellectual dialogue, leadership training, one-on-one mentoring and networking.
The 50 Out Front companies for diversity were also recognized for their commitment to diversity, leadership and development of minority employees. Kaiser Permanente was honored as the No. 1 ranked company for its long-standing commitment to diversity for the third consecutive year. George C. Halvorson, Chairman and CEO of Kaiser Permanente received the newly established Eagle award for a company achieving the number one spot three years running.
Kaiser executives expressed gratitude about the award and pride at what it represents.
“Kaiser Permanente was, once again, honored and privileged to receive Diversity MBA’s number one status,” said Dr. Ronald L. Copeland, co-chairman of the Kaiser Permanente National Diversity Council. “At Kaiser Permanente, diversity is who we are and how we serve our mission. We congratulate Diversity MBA on presenting another highly successful educational event. We are proud to be part of a community so dedicated to enhancing diversity leadership development and organizational performance excellence through shared learning.”
The elegant affair that honored the “Top 100 Under 50 executive and emerging leaders and “50 Out Front companies” was hosted by Mai Martinez, CBS Weekend Anchor . During the opening remarks, Diversity MBA Publisher Pamela McElvane greeted the audience in 7 different languages, emphasizing the increasingly global focus of business. This year’s top 100 honorees were a diverse group of professionals, both executives management and emerging leaders, with a common goal of excellence. Each received a custom award to commemorate the occasion.
Other top companies that were in attendance included: Walmart, Accenture, Verizon, Bank of America, Jones Lang LaSalle, and Kraft Foods. A drawing for Sony Tech Toys capped off the evening. The give-a-ways were provided courtesy of Sony Electronics.
About Diversity MBA Magazine
Diversity MBA Magazine provides companies with a global source for their diversity solutions. In addition to covering the minority leadership niche, Diversity MBA Magazine provides continuous research on the demographics of the workforce, ‘the top’ industries, companies and leaders that are important to career talent seekers.
Diversity MBA Magazine also serves the needs of multicultural professionals in corporate America, business students and entrepreneurs. Successful multicultural professionals are highlighted in addition to research reports on industry diversity programs and performance, continuing education, networking opportunities, and business and professional-development advice from some of the world’s most enlightened thinkers.
Published quarterly, Diversity MBA Magazine reaches more than 1.5 million through print and online circulation. For more information, please visit www.diversitymbamagazine.com.
