At KEYGroup we are proud to recognize local people or organizations that exemplify the attributes of Vibrant Entrepreneurial Organizations.
 The “Steel Heart Award” for June 2007 goes to…
Highmark, Inc. for placing diversity at the forefront of their efforts to build a strong, dynamic workforce. Let’s face it … it’s easy to talk about diversity or to write up a policy statement regarding workforce “inclusion.” It’s not so easy to implement programs that take diversity and inclusion to the next level. That’s why Highmark, Inc. deserves special recognition.
They’ve taken the extra steps to make sure that Highmark’s culture actively embraces individuals with disabilities. Beyond proactive hiring policies, Highmark has implemented some really innovative programs to build widespread awareness of the needs of disabled employees.
We believe that a vibrant entrepreneurial organization raises communication to an art form and Highmark’s approach is an outstanding example of that type of communication.
A shining example of the Highmark’s commitment to a diverse workforce is employee Michele Halleran, a Programmer Analyst, who was recently named “Employee of the Year” by Careers & the disABLED Magazine. Halleran, who is deaf, was cited for her efforts to educate fellow team members on effective communication with the deaf and hard of hearing. She assists with classes offered by Highmark's Corporate Diversity and Work Life Department and serves as a panelist on deaf awareness, deaf culture and her career journey. Halleran also assists in leading quarterly American Sign Language (ASL) courses and participates in Highmark’s college recruitment program.
Highmark’s programs make it clear that inclusion and diversity are investments in the company's future. This strategy has made hiring, training and promoting disabled employees a large part of Highmark's inclusive workforce. In fact, Highmark's commitment to the employment of men and women with disabilities has been recognized with several awards, including the U.S. Department of Labor's New Freedom Initiative Award in 2006.
“Highmark is continually searching for innovative ways to source new talent and maintain a commitment to hiring, promoting and retaining individuals with disabilities,” said Ty Alexander, Executive Vice President of Human Resources and Administrative Services. “Halleran, a key member of our workforce, represents the success of this commitment on a daily basis.”
So, congrats to Highmark, Inc. for building a culture that actively promotes diversity and communicates the corporate value that understanding and respecting differences is critical to success.
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