Citizens Energy Group was one of 39 Central Indiana organizations recognized in mid-February by the Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council (Mid-States MSDC) for collectively spending more than $650 million with Black-owned businesses in 2020.
The mission of the Mid-States MSDC is to accelerate economic growth by driving opportunities and collaboration between corporations and minority businesses. The organization connects its corporate members with qualified minority-owned suppliers of all sizes.
The recognition was announced in celebration of February as Black History Month and in response to the racial justice movement, to praise companies who have gone beyond issuing statements in support of the Black community.
“We wanted to acknowledge companies that are purchasing from Black businesses, creating jobs, and impacting overall economic development and empowerment of communities of color in Central Indiana,” said Carolyn Mosby, President/CEO of the Mid-States MSDC.
Richard Wise, Supplier Diversity Administrator at Citizens, serves as the Mid-States MSDC Board Chair.
“Citizens is proud to be recognized as a supporter of the Mid-States MSDC and is strongly committed to doing business with Black-owned businesses, as well as other diverse suppliers, in Central Indiana,” said Wise.
Citizens is committed to providing equal access to procurement opportunities for businesses that are local and minority-, women- and veteran-owned. Through our supplier diversity program, we work to strengthen and utilize these businesses, thereby adding value to our supply chain.
“We are intentional about diversity and inclusion in all areas of our business and appreciate the recognition of our focus on supplier diversity,” said Jodi Whitney, Vice President, Human Resources and Chief Diversity Officer. “In addition to our suppliers, we believe having a more diverse workforce produces better results for our customers and community.”
