Diversity is more than just a human resources effort at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. It is a company-wide commitment to hiring unique and talented employees. With the help of Blue Cross’ Diversity and Inclusion department, as well as Hispanic and Latino employees company-wide, several initiatives have been implemented to embrace and celebrate this vibrant culture, including the Azul Hispanic Latino Professionals Network. “Blue Cross celebrates Hispanic-Latino heritage through the work of our Azul Hispanic Latino Professionals Network, Community Responsibility, Diversity and Inclusion department and market research,” said Blue Cross business analyst Jesus Hernandez. “Azul Hispanic Latino Professionals Network is an employee resource network dedicated to bringing awareness, professional development and community involvement to Hispanic-Latino, as well as non-Hispanic-Latino, employees at Blue Cross.” Azul brings awareness to the differences between varied Hispanic-Latino cultures, all with a healthy or professional twist. A few of which have included:
- Salsa dancing lessons for Blue Cross employees
- Lunch and learns on the history of Salsa
- Professional development speakers from Hispanic-Latino backgrounds
- Speaker panels of Hispanic executive women discussing women in leadership and mentorship
In addition to the professional resource network, Blue Cross employees attend the national Association of Latino Professionals for America conference on behalf of the company, remaining involved in local ALPFA chapters and even participating in Hispanic Heritage Month celebration events in September and October. Blue Cross’ Diversity and Inclusion department is also a driver of cultural awareness within the company, supporting Hispanic guest speaker events and other initiatives throughout Hispanic Heritage Month. Perhaps most importantly, however, Azul Network members, as well as Blue Cross teams overall, know the value of diversity in the workplace. “Corporate diversity programs provide a path where differences are recognized and respected, thus creating an inclusive workplace environment,” said Blue Cross director of Talent Acquisition, Stefanie Thornton. “As we continue on our diversity and inclusion journey, each one of us plays an intricate role in the success of creating a culturally sensitive environment for both employees and members alike.” Want to learn more about working at Blue Cross? You may also like these blogs:
- Intern to Full-Timer: How One Employee Made the Transition
- “I Couldn’t Imagine Working Anywhere Else!”
- Blue Cross Interns Lead, Learn and Grow This Summer
Photo credit: Jazbeck
