Battelle Earns Top Score in Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index for Second Year in a Row

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index (CEI) is the nation’s leading benchmarking tool, measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality.

This year, Battelle received a perfect score of 100 on the CEI, earning top marks for the second year in a row and representing the continued efforts to implement and improve policies that impact Battelle’s LGBTQ+ staff.

The CEI rates companies on detailed criteria falling under four pillars:

1. Non-discrimination policies across business entities 
2. Equitable benefits for LGBTQ+ workers and their families 
3. Supporting an inclusive culture
4. Corporate social responsibility ​​

Battelle has been on an upward trajectory since first participating in the index in 2020 when it received a 75, which improved to 95 in 2021 and 100 in 2022.

“Inclusion drives innovation,” said Storm Woods, Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. “Battelle is focused on leveraging science and innovation to make the world a better place, and to accomplish our goals, we must first ensure that our employees and their families have what they need to bring their full, authentic selves to their work. The results of this year’s survey are indicative of our organization’s dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion and reflective of the collaborative approach to solution finding that makes Battelle a great place to work.” 

“We are proud to receive this high score that recognizes our commitment to equality in our workplace and value the CEI as a resource to measure our progress,” said Lou Von Thaer, Battelle President and CEO. “We remain dedicated to continuing these conversations and taking steps to ensure our employees are heard, represented, and respected at work.”

Employee led Change

With Battelle leadership’s commitment and support, Prism, Battelle’s LGBTQ+ employee resource group (ERG), led efforts to create a more inclusive culture.

“Our score on the Corporate Equality Index is not merely a badge to wear,” said Gerrit Bryan,

Data Scientist, Cyber. Bryan also serves on the Prism leadership team. “The score is a highly regarded recognition of our team’s dedication to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusivity, and most importantly, a demonstration of the power of diverse perspectives in action.”

Prism is one of six ERGs working to ensure team members feel welcome, respected, and safe. They work with Battelle’s senior leadership and other internal partners to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Prism members’ lived experiences, best practices, and a solid commitment to allyship positively impact the experience for all Battelle employees.

Supporting an Inclusive Workplace

In 2023, the HRC implemented new criteria, Prism and Battelle's leadership rallied to ensure employees had the necessary resources and information, including equitable healthcare benefits.  

Efforts in 2023 also included providing workplace guidance and support for employees who are transitioning as well as advice on how to support colleagues, and a guide for leaders to support employees.

Battelle also published an LGBTQ+ Benefit Guide as a quick reference tool for employees and their families.

This year also saw expanded gender self-identification options in Battelle’s human resources management tool to allow employees to self-identify more authentically and programming about allyship in the workplace.

These efforts help recognize, celebrate, and support employees, including offering improved benefits and other support services and programs. 

“The initiatives leading toward Battelle’s CEI score are driven by intersectional groups of passionate employees across the business and deeply committed leaders striving for a better workplace for all,” said Bryan. “While we are honored by the 100 top score, pursuing diversity, equity, and inclusivity is an ongoing process, a constant endeavor to improve every day. This achievement doesn't indicate we've reached our goals; rather, it inspires us to set new ones.”

You can read the full report from the Human Rights Campaign Foundation at www.hrc.org/cei.