United Parcel Service

Kathy Homeyer (left), supplier diversity director, UPS, accepts UPS’s WBE Hall of Fame award in the Corporate Leadership catergory, presented by Bob Ontiveros, chairman and founder, Group O Companies.
United Parcel Service of America Inc. Named by WBENC as one of America’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises for 13 consecutive years, UPS’s supplier diversity program was formally launched in 1992, and in 2011, spent $780 million with diverse suppliers. As part of its diversity initiatives, the company ensures that women are encouraged to bring their best efforts to UPS. Under chairman and CEO Scott Davis’s direction, UPS has increased WBE spend in many areas, such as legal services, marketing and human resources — in addition to enhancing inclusive franchisee opportunities.

“Our inductees think outside the traditional ways of doing business because they know that innovation often lurks where convention fears to tread,” said Jarilyn Fox, WBE Hall of Fame emcee, as well as president and publisher of Women’s Enterprise magazine. “Our leaders’ insistence on level corporate procurement playing fields has given WBEs a vital boost. Our mentors have generously given of their time and experience and have an appreciation for failure and success. And, our entrepreneurs are testament to the notion that enthusiasm and perseverance can transform dreams into reality.”

Lynn Scott, chairman, American Institute of Diversity and Commerce, said, “All of the honorees — the WBEs, mentors and corporate leaders — have been catalysts in the growth and success of untold women-owned firms throughout the country. Those of us who champion women business owners are grateful to have their support.”

The signature sponsor of the event was Cadillac and platinum sponsor was PepsiCo Inc., Energy Future Holdings, Group O Inc. and Pinnacle Technical Resources were gold sponsors. Silver sponsors included Alcatel-Lucent and Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., American Airlines, CESCO Inc., Oncor Electric Delivery Co. LLC and Texas Instruments Inc. were bronze sponsors. Patron sponsors were Brinker International, CM Productions Inc., Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Ernst & Young, Fluor Corp., IBM Corp., Icon, Joy Promotions Inc., Karlee Inc. and Verizon.