Independence Blue Cross event celebrates 85th anniversary with special guests and historic display

This week, Independence Blue Cross (Independence), Philadelphia’s hometown health insurer, celebrated its 85^th anniversary at a festive event featuring executive leadership, special guests, and a display of exhibits and artifacts highlighting the company’s 85 years of impact. More than 700 associates joined the celebration in the lobby at Independence’s headquarters in Center City Philadelphia.

“I’m extremely honored to be a part of Independence’s 85 years of history,” said Gregory E. Deavens, Independence Blue Cross President and CEO. “Very few companies make it this long, and even fewer consistently impact people’s health, their communities, and their quality of life the way that we have. It’s a testament to the work our associates do every day.”

Joining Deavens to share their thoughts on Independence’s anniversary (in order of appearance):

• Crystal E. Ashby, executive vice president, chief people, DEI, and communications officer of Independence Blue Cross
• Charles Pizzi, chairman of the Independence Blue Cross Board of Directors
• Julie van Steenwyk, granddaughter of Independence founder E.A. van Steenwyk
• Dick Vermeil, longtime Independence Blue Cross spokesperson, and Hall of Fame football coach.

“Throughout our history, Independence Blue Cross has impacted health care thanks to the commitment and efforts of our amazing associates who continue to transform care and make our members’ lives better. I am honored to be part of a team that embodies talent, expertise, and an incredible drive to bring about positive change,” shared Ashby.

A walk through history

Graphics and artifacts highlighting Independence’s 85 years of history were on display in the company’s lobby. Included were:

• Photo of Samuel Wilson, the mayor of Philadelphia in 1938, signing on as Independence’s first individual member.
• An image of U.S. First Lady, Eleanor Roosevelt, who helped promote the plan in 1939.
• “Then and now” comparison of the past 85 years of Independence Blue Cross.
• Pull-up banners featuring historical photos, advertisements, and information.
• A video featuring eight decades of photos – from past Independence leaders, starting with E.A. van Steenwyk, to drone footage of the company’s current headquarters at 1901 Market Street.

Following the speaking program, Deavens led associates and guests in a sparkling cider toast. He closed the celebration saying, “I could list 85 reasons why this is the best company to work for and the best team to be a part of, but that would take all day. So, I’ll say thank you for your contribution to this incredible history, thank you for what you do today for our members, customers, and communities, and thank you for helping us lead the way to the future of health care.”

Additional images and stories, along with a timeline of Independence’s 85-year history, can be found at the IBX Newsroom: ibx.com/85th.

Media contact:
Kathleen Conlon
267-918-8057
Kathleen.Conlon@ibx.com

Independence Blue Cross associates and leadership team browse 85 years of company artifacts and accomplishments during the lobby celebration.

Dick Vermeil, longtime Independence Blue Cross spokesperson, and Hall of Fame football coach. Photo by HughE Dillon.

Photo by HughE Dillon.

IBX executive leadership pictured left to right: Dr. Rich Snyder, chief medical officer and EVP of Facilitated Health Networks; Steve Fera, EVP of Public Affairs and Government Markets; Mike Vennera, EVP, Chief Strategy, Corporate Development & Information Officer; Crystal Ashby, EVP, chief people, DEI, and communications officer; Greg Deavens, President and CEO; Susan Larkin, EVP and president of Core Commercial Markets; Juan Lopez, EVP, chief financial officer, and treasurer; Mike Sullivan, EVP and president of Diversified Markets; Tom Hutton, EVP, General Counsel, Corp Secretary

Pictured left to right: Gene Little, Principal Test Database Analyst of Independence Blue Cross; Melinda Branch, Provider Partnerships Manager of AmeriHealth; Mike Sullivan, EVP & President of Diversified Markets of Independence Blue Cross

Independence Blue Cross associates enjoy the celebration at the company’s headquarters on Market Street. Photo by HughE Dillon.

Display cases fill the lobby at Independence blue Cross and help tell the company's 85 year story.

Independence Blue Cross associates mingle among 85 years of history and artifacts in the company's headquarters in Philadelphia.

Pictured left to right: Amy McCauley, lead associate engagement specialist at Independence Blue Cross; Jen Tsui and Julie van Steenwyk, granddaughters of Independence founder E.A. van Steenwyk; Kernika Gupta, Director of CEO initiatives at Independence Blue Cross

Independence Blue Cross President and CEO Greg Devaens welomes more than 700 associates and guests to the 85th anniversary celebration.

Pictured left to right: Juan Lopez, EVP, chief financial officer, and treasurer; Kathleen Conlon, corporate communications Manager; Chuck Stefanosky, supplier diversity director

Independence Blue Cross President and CEO Greg Deavens shares a moment with Jen Tsui, granddaughter of Independence Blue Cross founder E.A. van Steenwyk

More than 700 associates and guests fill the lobby as Independence Blue Cross' headquarters on Market Street. Photo by HughE Dillon.

Independence Blue Cross associates and leaders share their favorite memories on two giant anniversary cards.

IBX executive leadership, board members, and community stakeholders come together to celebrate the 85th anniversary.

More than 700 associates and guests fill the lobby at Independence Blue Cross' headquarters on Market Street.

Independence leadership and associates: Steve Fera, EVP of Public Affairs and Government Markets; Kim Kockler, SVP of Government Affairs; Ruth Stoolman, corporate communications manager; Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake, VP of Community Affairs and president of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation; Heather Falck, executive director of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation. Photo by HughE Dillon.

A toast to 85 years: Crystal Ashby, EVP, chief people, DEI, and communications officer of Independence Blue Cross; Jen Tsui, granddaughter of Independence founder E.A. van Steenwyk; Joe Frick, former Independence Blue Cross President and CEO; Julie van Steenwyk, granddaughter of Independence founder E.A. van Steenwyk; Greg Deavens, president and CEO of Independence Blue Cross; Dick Vermeil, longtime Independence Blue Cross spokesperson and Hall of Fame football coach; Charles Pizzi, chairman of the Independence Blue Cross Board of Directors