Diversity Star Award to Recognize Regional Champions of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion 

Lansing Regional Chamber and LEAP Announce Major Community Award to be Presented Annually at LRCC Annual Dinner 

Lansing, Michigan – The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) and the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) have joined forces to create a new award honoring organizations that champion diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace and the Lansing regional community. The Diversity Star Award honors companies and organizations within the Lansing region that demonstrate a solid commitment to advancing equity and creating inclusive environments, champion efforts for diversity and equitable practices in the workplace and beyond, support underserved and underrepresented employees and communities and contribute to a more just and equitable region.   

“Organizations of all sizes in our region have recognized the critical importance of living out a commitment to DEI from both a business and moral standpoint,” said Tim Daman, president & CEO, LRCC (left). “The Greater Lansing region is an established leader in advancing diversity and inclusion, which is creating stronger organizations and a more vibrant community. The Diversity Star Award will be an annual opportunity to celebrate the best of the best for their efforts in diversity, equity and inclusion.”  

The LRCC and LEAP will present two annual Diversity Star Awards at the LRCC Annual Dinner: one for small businesses (100 employees or less) and one for large businesses (101 employees or greater).  Award applicants must demonstrate how DEI has been successfully developed in the company culture and business operations and will be evaluated on their external efforts to collaborate with area initiatives to improve and recognize diversity in the Lansing region.  

“Top talent knows no demographic boundaries. We know that the most prosperous communities are those that welcome and embrace the diversity of people, thoughts and beliefs—this is the secret sauce in creating a great sense of place with an educated/skilled workforce,” said Tony Willis, chief equity development officer, LEAP (left). “It takes intentionality and continuous effort to create a welcoming and inclusive environment; this award acknowledges businesses in our community that are putting in the effort to do just that.”  

Award applications for the Diversity Star Award will be accepted electronically on the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce website from Tuesday, February 1, 2022, through Thursday, March 31, 2022. Up to three supplemental documents can be submitted with the award application. All businesses in the tri-county region (Ingham, Clinton, and Eaton counties) are eligible for this award.  Nomination review criteria and additional information for applicants is available on the Lansing Chamber website: https://www.lansingchamber.org/signature-events/.

  ###

About the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce 
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce works relentlessly to help businesses connect, grow, and thrive. No mid-Michigan business stands alone when they are a member of the Chamber. For 121 years, the Lansing Chamber has served as the voice of the Greater Lansing business community. More information about LRCC and its programs and services can be found online at lansingchamber.org, Facebook, Instagram (@lansingregionalchamber), Twitter (@lansingchamber) and LinkedIn. 

About LEAP
The Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP) is a coalition of area leaders partnering to build a stronger community for all—working every day to grow, retain and attract business to the Lansing, Michigan, region.