UNC Charlotte receives Belk Innovation in Diversity Award

UNC Charlotte is the first nonprofit recipient of the Belk Innovation in Diversity Award, presented by the Charlotte Chamber and Belk Inc. The University was acknowledged at the chamber’s annual meeting Tuesday, Dec. 3.

The Belk Innovation in Diversity Award recognizes “outstanding leadership and practice by driving business and community results through innovative diversity and inclusion in the workplace, economy and beyond.”

In naming UNC Charlotte as the nonprofit winner of the award, the Charlotte Chamber cited the creation of the University’s Diversity Plan in 2008, which has impacted the recruitment and retention of a diverse student population and workforce. Other initiatives mentioned included the development of the Chancellor’s Diversity Challenge Fund, which provides grants to create a broader understanding of diversity and inclusion; institutional support for diverse partnerships with businesses and the community that resulted in the Good Faith Award from the state Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses; and the enlistment of diverse board and advisory groups across the campus that mirror the community’s population.

“UNC Charlotte’s goal is to continually enhance opportunities for learning in a culturally rich environment. Our faculty, staff and students are enthusiastic advocates for diversity and inclusion, and this award validates what our campus community has accomplished and inspires us to keep moving forward,” said Chancellor Philip L. Dubois.

The law firm of Moore and Van Allen received the Belk Innovation in Diversity Award in the for-profit category.