Forbes has named University of Utah Health as one of the best employers for diversity in 2021. Forbes partnered with market research company Statista to survey 50,000 Americans working for businesses with at least 1,000 employees and pinpoint the companies they identified as being most dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
"We are incredibly honored to be recognized for this distinction," says Sarah Sherer, Chief Human Resources Officer for Univeristy of Utah Health Hospitals & Clinics. "This is an important step in our pursuit to create an environment that is inclusive for our teams and patients. We understand the value of a staff with diverse backgrounds and lived experiences and how this contributes to the most comprehensive and highest quality care for our patients. We also believe this enhances our relationship to our community, which is extremely important to us."
Employees who took the survey gave their opinion on a series of statements surrounding topics of age, gender equality, ethnicity, disability, LGBTQ+, and general diversity concerning their employer. Diversity among top executives, evaluations from employees at other companies, positions responsible for diversity, and communication of diverse company culture were also taken into consideration.
University of Utah Health ranks 98 out of 500 recognized organizations in the nation—and the only health care provider from the state of Utah to receive the designation.
U of U Health was also recognized by Forbes in 2019 as a "Best Employer" and most recently recognized by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation as a best place to work for LGBTQ+ people. For a full list of recognitions, visit https://healthcare.utah.edu/about/awards-and-honors.php.
"It's great to be recognized, but we know this is just one step in a process," says Mikel Whittier, senior director of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at University of Utah Health Hospitals & Clinics. "We've worked hard on promoting an equitable workplace but know there is more work to be done. We're committed to staying on that path and doing everything possible to provide a diverse and inclusive environment for both our staff and patients."
José E Rodríguez MD, Associate Vice President for Health Equity, Diversity and Inclusion for University of Utah Health added, "While this award clearly shows we are on the right path, it is a reminder that we have much more to do as we move forward centering equity in our institution. I am delighted the hospitals and clinics have been recognized in this way and we will continue to work hand in hand with them to center equity across all parts of University of Utah Health."
Univesity of Utah Health is committed to creating an inclusive climate that empowers faculty, staff, students, and trainees with evidence-based skills necessary to provide high-quality and high-value care in a world defined by cultural and intellectual diversity.
Visit Forbes for the list and the company rankings here.