Highmark Inc. Prepares Now for the Diversity Boom Ahead
Company recognized as a "2010 Diversity Leader"
PITTSBURGH, Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ -- For decades, the nation's demographic focus has been the baby boomers -- more than 70 million of them -- whose every move, walking to walkers, was ubiquitously anticipated.
Now, a boom of even greater proportion hovers on the demographic horizon. Minorities, presently representing roughly one-third of the nation, are projected to become the majority by 2042 and reach a population of more than 235 million by 2050, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The Hispanic population is projected to grow fastest; the African American population is expected to remain steady; and the white population is projected to shrink from about two-thirds currently to less than one-half. In addition, the 85 and older population is expected to more than triple.
Good-bye, baby boom. Hello, diversity boom. Highmark Inc. is preparing now.
"We've been focused on diversity and inclusion for several years as part of our corporate-wide strategic plan," said Sara Oliver-Carter, director of corporate staffing at Highmark. "We're strongly committed to diversity in our recruitment efforts as a matter of social responsibility and good business. It provides Highmark with a competitive advantage, enabling us to best serve our millions of customers, who are increasingly diverse."
Among the company's other diversity-related programs are:
- diversity awareness sessions for all employees;
- cultural competency trainings and events that have reached thousands of employees;
- health equity and quality services aimed at reducing health disparities among customers;
- and an award-winning supplier diversity program.
In recognition of its diversity initiative, Highmark recently received an award from the Profiles in Diversity Journal, which recognized the company with the "2010 Diversity Leader Award®" for demonstrating outstanding diversity communications practices during the last year. "This award is bestowed upon companies who are lighting the way in diversity practices, sharing their success stories and serving as a beacon to other companies to make a strong commitment to diversity," said James Rector, publisher of the national journal.
The award places Highmark in the company of several Fortune 500 organizations.
Highmark Inc. serves 4.8 million members through its health care benefits business and 25 million individuals across the country are served through Highmark and its subsidiaries and affiliates. For more information, visit www.highmark.com.
SOURCE Highmark Inc.
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