Citizens was recognized with the Sam H. Jones “Best of the Best” Award for exemplary performance in all aspects of diversity at the annual Mayor’s Celebration of Diversity Awards on August 19. This award is named in honor of the Indianapolis Urban League’s first president, a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and racial understanding.
Companies that receive this award foster diversity throughout all levels of the organization, include diversity in long-term planning, implement innovative diversity initiatives, and promote volunteerism or investment in diverse communities. Citizens was previously honored with the Best of the Best Award in 2010.
In order to be considered for this award, employers also must meet the criteria of the Diversity in Leadership and Diversity in Workforce awards. These awards celebrate organizations that cultivate an atmosphere of growth, particularly when considering upper-level diversity; support a diverse organizational culture; and implement best practices to support workplace diversity.
“I am honored that Citizens has received this prestigious award named after a great leader in our community,” said Jodi Whitney, Vice President, Human Resources and Chief Diversity Officer. “At Citizens, we have been intentional about creating an environment for our employees and customers where people who have different experiences feel valued and respected.”
Citizens President & CEO Leading Business Equity for Indy
Formed in October 2020, Business Equity for Indy (BEI) is a collection of aligned Central Indiana companies on a mission to drive change and advance racial equity.
BEI is chaired by Citizens President & CEO Jeffrey Harrison and is a joint venture of the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership (CICP) and the Indy Chamber in collaboration with the Indianapolis Urban League.
BEI is bringing together a diverse group of business leaders to foster a fairer and more inclusive future for the city’s Black population and other people of color.