Employers recognized for contributions to success of women in their workplace. 23rd annual event held at Amway Grand Plaza on March 14.

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(GRAND RAPIDS, MICH.) – Three highly-recognized West Michigan organizations were named as recipients of the 2012 Huntington Pillar Award from Women’s Resource Center for their dedication to empowering women in the workplace.

Aquinas College, Axios Incorporated and Herman Miller will be honored by Women’s Resource Center (WRC) at this luncheon awards event on Wednesday, March 14 at the JW Marriott Hotel. The event, which runs from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., is open to the public.

This year, WRC expects to attract over 500 business and community leaders and raise approximately $50,000 to support career and life skills development for women with barriers to employment.

The luncheon registration is $50 per person; reserved tables of 10 are $600; sponsorship packages are available. Event registration is available online at www.grwrc.org or by phone at (616) 301-9684. Tickets can be purchased at the door, however, this event is expected to sell out, so advance purchase by March 7 is strongly suggested.

The Huntington Pillar Award is West Michigan’s only prestigious award publicly ­recognizing employers’ contributions to the ­success of women in their workplaces. All three Huntington Pillar Award recipients are West Michigan based organizations that have implemented a variety of innovative and progressive policies to ensure the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in their workplace.

Since 1987, more than 70 organizations have received the award. Organizations submitting an award application are selected based on the “best practices” that have been implemented to empower women in their workplace. “These employers understand the value women bring to their business, as employees, as leaders, and as customers” said Sharon Caldwell-Newton, executive director of WRC. “They are pillars of support for working women and we are pleased to honor their contributions.”


About the Event
WHAT: Women’s Resource Center hosts the 23rd Annual Huntington Pillar Awards luncheon

WHEN: Wednesday, March 14, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

WHERE: JW Marriott Hotel, International Ballroom

DETAILS: WRC presents the 2012 Huntington Pillar Awards to Aquinas College, Axios, and Herman Miller, three West Michigan-based employers who have demonstrated their commitment to empowering women at work through best practice strategies. All proceeds from the event benefit the comprehensive employment programs provided by WRC for disadvantaged women. The event’s title sponsor is Huntington Bank and the underwriting sponsor is Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.

TICKETS: Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased online at www.grwrc.org. The event is open to the public.

CONTACT: For more event information, call Sharon Caldwell-Newton, Executive Director at (616) 458-5443 ext. 113 and visit WRC’s website at www.grwrc.org/OurEvents.aspx.


About Women’s Resource Center
Since 1973, Women's Resource Center (WRC), a local non-profit organization, has helped economically disadvantaged West Michigan women develop strategies for work and skills for life. WRC has assisted thousands of women to become more self-sufficient and confident through its array of comprehensive employment services. Learn more at www.grwrc.org.