Navy Wins Diversity Award Topping Leading Companies

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Navy Region Southwest was awarded the President's Award for Diversity in the large business category from the league during an awards luncheon Oct. 29. The award honors businesses for maximizing opportunities for minorities in San Diego County.

Several large businesses were also nominated for the award, including Walmart, Federal Express and Wells Fargo.

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead has pointed out his goal to see the Navy designated a top 50 employer. Ray King, president and chief executive officer of the San Diego Urban League, said the Navy in San Diego is helping the CNO realize this goal.

"The fact that the U.S. Navy won is a testament to the CNO's stated policy and the efforts and support from area commanders to promote diversity at all levels," Price said. "We congratulate and salute the Navy for being our 2009 winner."

Master Chief Petty Officer James Hervey, the Navy's equal opportunities advisor in the southwest, said the award demonstrates the Navy's commitment to attracting, promoting and retaining a diverse workforce.

"[It] shows that the Navy has awareness on how to manage diversity and is sensitive to diversity," said Hervey. "It is crucial in retaining and attracting employees."

Hervey represents Navy Region Southwest as a member of the Urban League, a position he says gives him insight into current corporate thinking and best practices in diversity.

"We are competing for the same talent as Fortune 500 companies and small businesses, and I get to see what works for them and share it with the Navy," he said.

As a member, Hervey is also able to identify opportunities for sailors to be involved in the communities around San Diego area bases, "to see beyond the fence," he said.

"Volunteer opportunities get sailors out on the front lines, and neighborhoods get to see we are all members of the community."

"We don't just talk about diversity," Hervey said. "We embrace it."

The Navy continues to attract, develop, mentor and retain a top diverse talent to remain a strong and relevant force and the award is a testament to these efforts.

For more news from Commander Navy Region Southwest, visit www.navy.mil/local/cnrsw.