Diabetes group will honor Cigna at Promise Ball on May 14
David Cordani, president and CEO of Cigna, will accept the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Star of Hope Award on behalf of the company at the Promise Ball on Saturday, May 14, at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford.
The theme of the event, hosted by the foundation’s North Central Connecticut and Western Massachusetts Chapter, is Set Sail for the Cure.
Cigna, a global health service company, is being recognized for its longstanding commitment to the foundation’s mission of finding a cure for diabetes and its complications. Cordani served as the corporate chair of the Northern Connecticut Walk to Cure Diabetes in 2008.
Approximately 800 guests are expected at the May 14 event. In both 2007 and 2008, the Promise Ball broke nonprofit records in Greater Hartford by raising more than $1 million for diabetes research. In 2009, the ball raised $920,000 during the peak of the economic downturn.
NBC Connecticut’s Kevin Nathan will emcee the black-tie-optional event.
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UTC among “Diversity Champions”
United Technologies Corp. has been named one of the nation’s most diverse companies, moving up to 12th on DiversityBusiness.com’s list of the “Top 50 Organizations for Multicultural Opportunities.”
“It’s wonderful to be honored for something we take very seriously,” said Claudia Munoz-Najar, UTC manager of corporate supplier responsibility and diversity. “We understand that establishing and nurturing relationships with a diverse group of suppliers can spark innovation, and competition, and enhance our products.”
Munoz-Najar is also being honored by DiversityBusiness.com for her energy, commitment and leadership by being named one of “America’s Top Diversity Champions for 2011.” In April, she will be honored during the 11th annual DiversityBusiness.com Awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.
More than 750,000 business owners participated in the online survey for DiversityBusiness.com. The website has recognized United Technologies since 2000 for its activities with diverse suppliers. UTC was 14th on the list last year.
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Cheshire firm honored
The Small Business Council of the Kissimmee/Osceola County (Fla.) Chamber of Commerce has named Barker Specialty Orlando as its Small Business of the Year for its accomplishments in business and community service. Barker Specialty Orlando is the Florida affiliate of Barker Specialty Co. of Cheshire. Vice President Adrienne Barker accepted the honor for Barker.
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Cyr Appointed to PRSA Board
Danielle Cyr, senior account manager of public relations and marketing firm Co-Communications, was appointed to the secretary of the Public Relations Society of America’s Connecticut Valley Chapter. During her term, Cyr will assist with maintaining records and program planning.
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Wastewater Plant Cited
The Jewett City Wastewater Treatment Facility was recently selected by EPA for a Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant Excellence Award. The entire staff of Jewett City facility, led by David Drobiak, superintendent, was recognized by EPA’s New England Office for exceptional work in operating and maintaining the wastewater treatment plant. The plant was among three facilities in New England acknowledged for exemplary performance during 2010.
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