WakeMed Honored as Leader in Diversity

For the fourth time, WakeMed was recognized as a Leader in Diversity by the Triangle Business Journal. WakeMed was one of eight organizations and 12 individuals to be named to the list for 2021.

Inclusion, respect and equality have always been central to WakeMed's values and mission of caring for all people, serving the underserved and advocating for those who have no advocate. In the face of a global pandemic, WakeMed has made health care equity and inclusion even more of a priority.

This past year, as the nation witnessed the disproportionate effect COVID-19 had on the underserved and within communities of color, WakeMed worked with community partners to improve access to testing, face coverings and more. In early 2021, the WakeMed Health Equity Team led the charge to bring vaccines to underserved communities. WakeMed partnered with local churches, community advocates and Wake County to help administer more than 18,000 vaccines to people in underserved communities.

WakeMed is also dedicated to providing an inclusive work and patient care environment that values each person's experience while respecting and celebrating our differences. These efforts include an active Diversity & Inclusion Council, honoring members of the armed forces, celebrating Diversity & Inclusion Awareness month, providing services for multiple faith traditions, participating in community events and ongoing educational opportunities, including the Courageous Conversations video series.

“WakeMed is a place of healing. Patients and families who come through our doors are from all walks of life and backgrounds, seeking and deserving compassionate, quality care – so it is critically important for us to stand together and stand for all,” explains Donald Gintzig, president & CEO. "While we are proud of the culture of respect and dignity that we continue to maintain, WakeMed will also continue to listen, learn and heighten our level of social consciousness and celebrate our differences."

Learn more about what diversity and inclusion means at WakeMed.