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.
WBE HALL OF FAME HONOREE
