Valuing diversity

The companies that employ these successful DB pros see many ways in which a diverse workforce enriches the organization. Here's what they say:

George Halvorson, chair and CEO of Kaiser Permanente: "Diversity at KP is not an initiative, it's who we are as an organization, from the boardroom to the hospital room."

Dell VP Thurmond Woodard, who leads the office of global diversity: "Diversity helps us meet and exceed our customers' needs and remain competitive in the marketplace."

Pitney Bowes chair and CEO Michael J. Critelli: "Diversity strengthens and moves us forward in ways that we never could accomplish if we all thought, acted and looked alike."

Susan Johnson, VP of strategic talent management and diversity leadership at Pitney Bowes: "We learn from each other and support a culture that breeds imaginative leaders."

Michael T. Holmes, Pitney Bowes director of strategic talent management: "It's one of the great joys of my job to attract, retain, develop and promote high-potential diverse talent."

Hilton Hotels president and COO Matthew Hart: Diversity supports "a strong and globally competitive company that attracts customers, corporate partners, shareholders and owners that strengthen our business value."

Tammy Napoli, Walgreens' director of recruitment and diversity services: "We realize that the best way to serve our customers is by developing a workforce that is reflective of the diversity of our world."

Rose Napier, director of employee relations and diversity at ORAU: "In an environment where people are encouraged to be themselves, individuals can maximize their potential while the organization capitalizes on their skills and talents."