WBE HALL OF FAME HONOREE

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for American Airlines, Ricardo Cardoza, Sr. Analyst, Corporate Purchasing Supplier Diversity.

American Airlines launched its supplier diversity program in 1989, recognizing that integrating diverse suppliers strengthens both its business and broader social and economic equity. To ensure alignment with business needs and community impact, the program is built on four pillars: an internal task force to embed supplier diversity within each division, increased awareness through employee business resource groups, continuous program evaluation and enhancement, and external advocacy with organizations like the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.

A key example of this commitment is American’s partnership with Handcrafted Learning, an award-winning, women-owned business. As the airline’s trusted learning vendor, Handcrafted Learning has collaborated with various departments to provide targeted training solutions that drive meaningful business results and enhance performance metrics.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for AT&T, Alexis Dennard, Assistant Vice President, Supplier Inclusivity.

AT&T has been a pioneer in supplier diversity since launching one of the first supplier inclusivity programs in the U.S. in 1968. The company actively promotes the participation of minority-, woman-, veteran-, LGBTQ+-, and disability-owned businesses in its procurement processes. Its initiatives supporting women-owned businesses include executive-level scholarships through the Tuck Executive Education Programs, specialized mentorship and training, and supply chain integration efforts that encourage prime suppliers to subcontract with diverse businesses. In 2024, AT&T’s procurement spend supported over half a million jobs, including 260,000 for people of color and 290,000 for women.

To help other organizations enhance supplier diversity, AT&T emphasizes setting clear goals and metrics, securing executive support, developing comprehensive policies, and expanding supplier bases. The company also highlights the importance of leveraging technology and data, fostering collaboration, integrating inclusivity into procurement, and continuously improving processes. By celebrating successes and sharing stories, AT&T reinforces its commitment to driving meaningful change in supplier diversity.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for Coca-Cola, Michelle Burgess, Director, Inclusion & Diversity Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, LLC

Coca-Cola established its Supplier Diversity Program over 40 years ago to ensure equal opportunities for businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ individuals, and disabled persons. The company has partnered with key diversity organizations, including the National Minority Supplier Development Council and the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council. In 2010, Coca-Cola integrated sustainability into its diversity initiatives, collaborating with suppliers who prioritized environmental and social responsibility. By 2015, the program had gained national recognition, earning multiple awards for its commitment to diversity and inclusion in the supply chain.

Reaffirming its dedication in 2020, Coca-Cola set ambitious goals to economically empower diverse suppliers by increasing spending with minority-owned businesses. The company actively mentors diverse suppliers, fosters innovation, and measures the broader impact of its diversity initiatives. Coca-Cola also supports Rise Up Crowdfunding, which helps women and minority-owned startups raise capital. Expanding its outreach further, the company has hosted AI summits in the U.S., Italy, and Spain to engage and support minority- and women-owned businesses.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for Dallas College, Crystal Alba, Managing Director of Supplier Development

Dallas College’s Supplier Development Program has been fostering diverse supplier participation for over 20 years, providing equal access to business opportunities within its system. In recent years, the program has shifted its focus from the college to the vendors, prioritizing their growth and success. Strengthened vendor training and outreach efforts have helped suppliers build capacity, making them more competitive. Additionally, clear tracking procedures have enhanced Dallas College’s ability to support vendors effectively, fostering stronger partnerships.

Through targeted networking opportunities, vendors connect directly with decision-makers, leading to successful bids for women-owned businesses such as Energy Utility Group and Fireman’s Paving. Dallas College emphasizes that supplier diversity requires leadership commitment, clear goals, and continuous improvement to create an inclusive and equitable supply chain. By removing barriers and fostering lasting relationships, the program drives innovation, improves performance, and contributes to a more equitable business community.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for DFW Airport, Suzanne Cruz-Sewell, Assistant Vice President, Business Diversity & Development

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) launched its supplier diversity program in 1985 with a mission to educate, advocate, and empower diverse suppliers while strengthening the regional economy. The program focuses on business diversity policies that create growth pathways, outreach and networking activities to ensure fair opportunities, and partnerships with community organizations that support disadvantaged, small, minority, and women-owned businesses. DFW continues to evolve its initiatives to adapt to the changing business landscape, maintaining its role as a key economic driver for the region.

DFW offers both federal and local business diversity programs, including the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise and Airport Concessions Disadvantaged Business Enterprise programs, as well as the Minority/Women Business Enterprise and Small Business Enterprise Concessions programs. To further support women-owned businesses, DFW provides education, networking, and business opportunities through its Capacity Building Program Series. Additionally, the Success through Opportunities, Access & Resources (SOAR) Conference equips women business owners with skills and connections to enhance their business capacity and strengthen their partnerships with DFW.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for Ericsson, Donna Erhardt, Director Supplier Diversity and Nick Von Lanken, Vice President Strategic Sourcing

Ericsson began its supplier diversity journey in 1997 by joining the Women’s Business Council-Southwest and has since expanded its efforts globally through partnerships with organizations like the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and WEConnect International. These collaborations provide access to certified women-owned businesses in over 135 countries. Ericsson’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs has been nationally recognized, earning the prestigious WBENC Top Corporation Award. The company actively participates in global events and conferences, reinforcing its dedication to fostering women’s business engagement.

Beyond partnerships, Ericsson invests financially and leverages its global workforce to support women entrepreneurs. Through philanthropic efforts like donations to the Dorothy B. Brothers Scholarship Fund and the WBCS Lillie Knox Investment Fund, the company has helped women business owners access executive education and financial grants. Additionally, its mentorship program, developed in collaboration with advocacy partners, provides guidance and expertise to entrepreneurs. By fostering these initiatives, Ericsson continues to create a lasting, positive impact on the women’s business community.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for IBM, Jackie Turner, Strategic Sourcing Manager

IBM launched its supplier diversity program in 1968, well before the establishment of key diversity policies in the U.S. The company has a long history of inclusion, dating back to hiring its first women and minority employees in 1899 and implementing an Equal Pay for Equal Work Policy in 1935. IBM’s Supplier Diversity Program focuses on fostering relationships and developing capabilities for businesses owned by minorities, women, LGBTQ+, veterans, and disabled individuals. In 2000, IBM became the first IT company to spend $1 billion with diverse suppliers and joined the Billion Dollar Roundtable.

IBM has played a foundational role in advancing supplier diversity by supporting certification, education, and networking initiatives. It is a corporate partner of organizations such as the National Minority Supplier Development Council, Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), and Disability:IN. The company also leads a 20-plus-year program for women-owned businesses in collaboration with WBENC and Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business, offering an immersive learning experience. Additionally, IBM actively participates in WBENC conferences, matchmaking events, and pitch competitions, while also supporting the Black-Owned Women Collective™.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for JPMorganChase, Nancy Minchillo, VP Global Supplier Diversity

JPMorganChase has prioritized supplier diversity for over three decades, ensuring equitable access to opportunities for businesses owned by women, ethnic minorities, veterans, people with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ individuals. As an active member of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, WBENC, and other advocacy organizations, the firm continuously works to expand opportunities for diverse suppliers. In 2019, it was inducted into the Billion Dollar Roundtable for spending over $1 billion annually with certified diverse businesses.

The company has several initiatives focused on women-owned businesses, including Women on the Move, launched in 2018 to support female entrepreneurs, financial independence, and career growth. Through its WBENC membership, JPMorganChase also offers The Curated Coaching for Entrepreneurs, providing free business coaching to accelerate women-led businesses. As part of its broader commitment to racial equity, JPMorgan Chase pledged $750 million in spending with Black-, Hispanic-, and Latino-owned suppliers in 2020—surpassing this goal two years early. In 2023, the company spent over $3 billion directly and indirectly with diverse suppliers.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for Merck, Andrea Arce, Senior Specialist, Economic Inclusion and Business Diversity

Merck’s commitment to supplier diversity began in 1985, evolving into its Economic Inclusion & Business Diversity (EI&BD) program, which drives inclusive procurement practices. By sourcing from minority-, women-, veteran-, LGBTQ-, and disability-owned businesses, Merck fosters economic growth and innovation while strengthening its competitive advantage. Key milestones in its journey include launching the MWOE Enterprise Program in 1987, making supplier diversity a strategic initiative in 2005, joining the Billion Dollar Roundtable in 2017, and introducing virtual programs like the Business Opportunity Fair and Tier II Academy.

Merck actively supports women-owned businesses through its membership in WBENC, mentorship programs, and industry-specific initiatives. A notable effort is the Merck Drexel Advanced Leadership Program for small and diverse suppliers, where women-owned businesses have comprised over 50% of participants. Over the past three years, Merck has spent nearly $1 billion with women-owned businesses, reinforcing its long-standing dedication to economic inclusion and supplier diversity.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for Oncor, Debbie Dennis, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer

Oncor launched its supplier diversity program in 2007 and has since remained committed to fostering a strong, inclusive supply chain. With support from its C-suite and board of directors, Oncor has integrated diverse businesses across all sourcing categories, strengthening both the company and the communities it serves. This dedication has resulted in nearly $4 billion spent with diverse suppliers. Oncor regularly tracks and reports supplier diversity metrics to leadership, ensuring continued investment in a resilient and inclusive supply chain.

Oncor actively supports organizations that connect women-owned businesses with corporate opportunities. As a corporate member of the Women’s Business Council – Southwest, Oncor sponsors major events and participates in procurement and industry-focused initiatives. The company also engages in board and committee roles, furthering its network with potential women-owned suppliers. Through outreach events with WBCS, chambers, and business groups, Oncor continues to identify and support women-owned businesses ready to participate in sourcing opportunities.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for Parkland Health, Don McKneely Board Member American Institute of Diversity & Commerce

Parkland Health, part of the Dallas County Hospital District, launched its supplier diversity program in 1988 as a key strategy to provide value to its stakeholders, including patients and taxpayers. The program aims to enhance supplier diversity by building mutually beneficial relationships with diverse businesses, particularly women-owned business enterprises (WBEs), at all levels of its supply chain. Parkland Health is dedicated to empowering and encouraging WBEs to pursue and succeed in business opportunities with the organization, reflecting Dallas County’s diverse community and patient population.

Parkland Health has a long-standing commitment to supporting minority- and women-owned businesses, ensuring equal access to purchasing opportunities. The hospital district actively engages with diverse businesses, hosting forums like the ‘Women in Construction’ business event to expand its network of women-owned suppliers. Through one-on-one business meetings and participation in current construction projects, Parkland Health continues to strengthen its relationships with women-owned businesses and looks forward to further enhancing its partnerships with skilled women-led companies in the future.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for Texas Instruments, Rob Simpson, Vice President, Worldwide Procurement & Logistics

Texas Instruments (TI) has long recognized the value of engaging minority- and women-owned business entities, as well as other disadvantaged business enterprises, in its supply chain to drive innovation and cost-effective solutions. TI’s small/disadvantaged business program began in the 1960s and was formally expanded in 1989. The goal of the supplier diversity program is to provide an inclusive sourcing model that helps certified disadvantaged businesses compete successfully for TI’s business. TI has been an active member of the Dallas Fort Worth Minority Supplier Development Council and was a founding member of the Women’s Business Council – Southwest.

TI’s commitment to supplier diversity has extended over decades, with notable initiatives like the Super Bowl Emerging Business Program in 2010, where over 3,000 North Texas minority- and women-owned businesses were trained, and 900 became certified for procurement opportunities. Through its Supplier Development Program, TI continues to support diverse businesses by mentoring them on skills such as bidding on contracts, sales pitches, client diversification, and building supplier partnerships. This initiative strengthens diverse suppliers, enabling them to grow and operate more efficiently, while also enhancing TI’s inclusive and resilient supply chain.

2024 WBE Hall of Fame Awards Program Presenters from left: Tom Trotter, Billy Bryant Schultz and Terri Quinton.

Accepting for Toyota, Jason Lynch, General Manager – Operations and Strategic Sourcing

Toyota’s Supplier Diversity Program, launched in 1989, is integral to the company’s core values and business strategy. The program fosters economic sustainability for diverse entrepreneurs, drives competitive advantages, and contributes to delivering exceptional mobility experiences for customers through innovation. Toyota’s CEO, Tetsuo “Ted” Ogawa, emphasizes that diversity and inclusion are essential for the company’s success, aligning with their commitment to respect for people. Toyota ensures its supply chain reflects the diversity of its employees, suppliers, and the communities it serves.

The company actively develops and educates diverse businesses through initiatives such as the Toyota Mentorship Program, which has supported 37 women business enterprises since 2015. Toyota also organizes an annual “Opportunity Exchange,” where suppliers connect with diverse businesses to meet Tier II spending targets. In 2023, Toyota spent $4.4 billion with over 245 diverse suppliers at the Tier I level, further working with Tier I suppliers to support and hold them accountable for engaging Tier II diverse suppliers.