The African American Chamber of Commerce of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware honored Independence Blue Cross President and CEO Daniel J. Hilferty with the Corporate Advocate of the Year award during its annual meeting and awards ceremony.
Hilferty was recognized for his commitment to diversity and inclusion and expanding opportunities for people of color, women, and veterans.
Held virtually this year for the first time in 27 years, the annual event honors business leaders throughout the region who represent and support African-American businesses through economic empowerment and advocacy. The event is the Chamber’s signature fundraiser and supports the organization’s work to advocate for Black-owned businesses and help minority businesses build capacity and spearhead job growth.
Independence Blue Cross is committed to fulfilling its role as an economic engine for the region through its diversity and inclusion efforts. The company has celebrated several key achievements related to its commitment to diversity and inclusion:
- Landmark spending in 2018 of more than $100 million with businesses owned by people of color, veterans, women, and members of the LGBTQ community. The company’s diversity spend increased to $187 million in 2019.
- HRO Today recognized Independence EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer Jeanie Heffernan with a 2019 CHRO of the Year Award
- The Philadelphia Inquirer awarded Independence Top Workplaces 2019 and Top Workplaces 2020
- Independence EVP, CFO and Treasurer Gregory E. Deavens received the 2018 Leadership Excellence Award presented by the National Diversity Council
- Independence received the 2018 Excellence Award for Diversity at the HR Department of the Year Awards