EMSDC Regional Corporation of the Year Award recognizes longstanding commitment to certified minority-owned businesses
Independence Blue Cross (Independence) was honored with the Regional Corporation of the Year Award by the Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council (EMSDC). The award was presented during a virtual celebration in December.
Independence and its affiliates received the recognition for their commitment to incorporating diverse suppliers into the company’s supply chain while creating substantial business opportunities for certified minority-owned businesses. EMSDC noted Independence’s “dedication to supplier diversity through policies embedded in [the] organization, innovative thought leadership, and execution in engaging Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs).”
Gregory E. Deavens, Independence president and CEO, accepted the award via video on behalf of the company. His message included a call to action to other business leaders and procurement experts: “We can all be proud that we have chosen to be leaders in promoting equity and inclusion in our practices. We have accomplished many good things, but we can do more, and we must do more.” Deavens added special thanks to the team at EMSDC for helping companies across the region make a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in their business practices.
Juan Lopez, Independence senior vice president of Finance Shared Services, opened the event and welcomed viewers to the celebration saying, “The Choice Awards are a great opportunity to remember the impact that can be made by businesses of all sizes, as well as individuals committed to fair, inclusive procurement.”
The Eastern Minority Supplier Development Council (EMSDC) 2020 Supplier of the Year awardees included diverse suppliers supported and nominated by Independence, including:
Supplier diversity has broad economic impact
An economic impact study of Independence’s supplier diversity program found that in 2018, the company’s hiring of diverse suppliers contributed $375 million to the national economy, up from $238 million in 2014. In addition, the Independence supplier diversity program created 1,703 jobs paying $94.1 million in salaries and benefits, and generated $30.1 million in federal, state, and local tax revenue.
In addition to the supplier diversity program, Independence is committed to attracting and sustaining a talented and diverse workforce, promoting greater access to health care, addressing health disparities, and building partnerships and supporting organizations that assist people experiencing economic hardship.
Media contact:
Kathleen Conlon
215-241-4576 (office)
267-918-8057 (mobile)
Kathleen.Conlon@ibx.com