Corning Named Best of the Best for Corporate Inclusion | National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce | Corning

“On the journey toward developing a truly diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, it’s important to pause and consider where we’ve been and the progress we’ve made,” says Dana Moss, vice president, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. “The Best-of-the-Best award gives us an opportunity to do so while reminding us that the important work of instilling an intuitive inclusion mindset at Corning and in our communities isn’t finished.”

Corning was named a Best-of-the-Best Corporation for Inclusion for the seventh consecutive year by the National Business Inclusion Consortium (NBIC) at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C., on November 17. The consortium was formed in 2011 by the National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) and is comprised of several other organizations such as Disability:IN, the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), the National Veteran-Owned Business Association (NaVOBA), and the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) to name a few.

“The Best-of-the-Best designation honors corporations for their commitment to America’s diverse employees and business owners, which includes LGBT people, people of color, women, and people with disabilities,” said NGLCC co-founder and president Justin Nelson. “This designation is highly competitive and is bestowed only to corporations that we see constantly striving to strengthen and celebrate diversity. These corporations being honored are true leaders in ongoing global commitments to create a better future for all diverse communities in business– especially as we work to help all our communities recover equitably from the pandemic.”

Annette Setzer, supplier diversity program manager, Corning Optical Communications, represented Corning at the awards ceremony during NBIC Unity Week. In addition, Corning supported the awards ceremony as a Gold Sponsor. Other honorees include Bristol Myers Squibb, Wells Fargo, FedEx, and Toyota.  

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to accept this prestigious award on behalf of Corning,” Annette said. “Receiving awards like the Best-of-the-Best is confirmation that Corning is making strides year-over-year and shows the commitment of leadership and all employees to develop an inclusive culture and inclusive supply chain intentionally focused on advancing economic inclusion and opportunity across all diverse business segments. I am proud to be part of this impactful journey with Corning.”

To be considered for Best-of-the-Best recognition, corporations complete a detailed survey about inclusive programs, including supplier diversity initiatives, employee resource groups, and workplace engagement opportunities. Companies also provide a report of diversity and inclusion policies and achievements as well as other awards and recognitions received.

This year, Corning highlighted several important initiatives and programs such as its partnership with North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University to prepare students for STEM, business, and education careers; Global Diversity Councils; new media such as the Collective Voices podcast where employees and leaders discuss their personal experiences with diversity, equity, and inclusion; and talent development programs.

“Receiving recognition as Best-of-the-Best for the seventh year is proof that our policies, programs, and inclusion initiatives are essential for creating an environment where employees can feel they belong,” Dana said. “The award is a helpful guidepost to tell us we’re on the right track. We value this opportunity to celebrate while looking ahead to the future.”