Black &amp; Veatch

Kohler

Scotts Miracle-Gro

Black & Veatch Survey Shows Sustainable Water Management a Top Priority for Australia’s Mining Industry 

Black & Veatch

Kohler Interns Volunteer Across Kohler, Wisconsin

14 Grass Alternatives To Try in Your Garden for a Unique, Low-Maintenance Lawn Idea

Abbott's <a href="https://www.abbott.com/content/dam/corp/abbott/en-us/hub-new/Abbott-2023-Global-Sustainability-Report-June-2024.pdf" target="_blank">2023 Global Sustainability Report</a> tracks progress towards the global healthcare company’s 2030 Sustainability Plan goals to deliver strong sustainability performance across its operations – supporting the company’s central focus of helping more people in more places to live their healthiest possible lives.

Innovating for Access in Health

Innovation is meaningless if it doesn’t reach the people who need it. That’s why expanding access and affordability of care is central to Abbott’s goal to improve the lives of one in every three people on Earth each year by 2030.

The company’s <a href="https://www.abbott.com/content/dam/corp/abbott/en-us/hub-new/Abbott-2023-Global-Sustainability-Report-June-2024.pdf#page=16" target="_blank">Access and Affordability Design Principles</a>, which have been integrated across Abbott’s businesses since 2022, help identify opportunities to expand the reach of Abbott’s life-changing technologies. Abbott also works across its businesses and in partnership with others to remove the barriers that stand in the way of good health, in communities around the world. A few examples of this work:

<ul><li>Because more than 80% of people who need a pacemaker require pacing in two chambers of the heart, Abbott introduced the world’s first device to offer beat-to-beat wireless communication and synchronization between two leadless pacemakers, each of which is smaller than a triple-A battery – opening access to leadless pacing for millions of people.</li>
	<li>We announced an agreement that will provide greater access to biosimilar medicines for more people in key emerging markets, together with global biotech leader mAbxience.</li>
	<li>In Tanzania, Abbott and Abbott Fund worked with the government to expand the reach of emergency medicine to nearly 1.3 million people – the latest results from more than 20 years of partnership. The <a href="https://www.abbott.com/content/dam/corp/abbott/en-us/hub-new/Abbott-2023-Global-Sustainability-Report-June-2024.pdf" target="_blank">cover of this year’s report</a> features the program’s 2023 graduates in emergency medicine, reflecting our ongoing commitment to building local healthcare capacity.</li>
</ul>Sustainability in Everything We Do

To innovate for greater access and affordability in health, we’ve integrated sustainability principles across our business. This is helping us make solid progress toward the goals outlined in our 2030 plan – from protecting a healthy environment, to building the workforce of tomorrow. A few examples of this work:

<ul><li>In the past year, Abbott achieved a 7% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions, making good progress toward our goal of a 30% reduction from our 2018 baseline, and established a $15 million annual environmental sustainability capital fund to support energy efficiency projects. We reduced our water use by 3% overall, and four sites achieved Alliance for Water Stewardship (AWS) certification. We also increased the number of sites sending zero waste to landfill to 53 globally.</li>
	<li>In our 2030 plan, we set a goal to create 1 million development and job opportunities for current and future employees and to create opportunities in STEM programs and internships for 100,000 young people. In 2023, we were already exceeding our expected progress – so we’re now doubling those goals for 2030.</li>
</ul>See Abbott’s full <a href="https://www.abbott.com/content/dam/corp/abbott/en-us/hub-new/Abbott-2023-Global-Sustainability-Report-June-2024.pdf" target="_blank">2023 Global Sustainability Report</a> for more details on these areas – and to learn more about how we responsibly connect data, technology and care, strengthen our global supply chain and deliver product quality.

Putting Health at the Center of Sustainability: Abbott Reports on Progress in Expanding Health Access, Broader 2030 Plan Performance

<img alt="&quot;Striving for Equality&quot; DEI 2024 badge. A person using sign language in front of a laptop in the background." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1f7096f4-aa25-4760-84ad-4e0046e1656d" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/dei_AB_082924.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="800" loading="lazy" />AllianceBernstein is honored to be recognized as a Best Place To Work 24 for Disability Inclusion! We are proud to have earned high scores on the Disability Equality Index in both the U.S and the U.K.

Learn more about the Disability Equality Index via <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/disabilityin/" target="_blank">Disability:IN</a> at <a href="https://disabilityin.org/what-we-do/disability-equality-index/" target="_blank">https://disabilityin.org/what-we-do/disability-equality-index/</a>

AllianceBernstein

AllianceBernstein (AB) is a leading global investment management firm that offers diversified investment services to institutional investors, individuals, and private wealth clients in major world markets. We believe corporate responsibility, responsible investing and stewardship are intertwined. To be effective stewards of our clients’ assets, we strive to invest responsibly—assessing, engaging on and integrating material issues, including environmental, social and governance (ESG), and climate change considerations in most of our actively managed strategies (approximately 70% of AB’s total assets under management as of March 31, 2024). We also strive to hold ourselves as a firm to similar practices that we ask of issues. Our stewardship practices, investment strategy and decision-making are guided by our purpose, mission and values.

Our purpose—pursue insight that unlocks opportunity—inspires our firm to act responsibly. While opportunity means something different to each of our stakeholders; it always means considering the unique goals of each stakeholder. AB’s mission is to help our clients define and achieve their investment goals, explicitly stating what we do to unlock opportunity for our clients. We became a signatory to the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) in 2011. This began our journey to formalize our approach to identifying responsible ways to unlock opportunities for our clients through integrating material ESG factors throughout most of our actively managed equity and fixed-income client accounts, funds and strategies. AB also engages issuers when it believes the engagement is in the best financial interest of its clients.

Because we are an active manager, our differentiated insights drive our ability to deliver alpha and design innovative investment solutions. Material ESG and climate issues are important elements in forming insights and in presenting potential risks and opportunities that can affect the performance of the companies and issuers that we invest in and the portfolios that we build.

Our values provide a framework for the behaviors and actions that deliver on our purpose and mission. Values align our actions. Each value emerges from the firm’s collective character—yet is also aspirational.

<ul><li>Invest in One Another means that we have a strong organizational culture where diversity is celebrated and mentorship is critical to our success. When we invest in one another, we empower our employees to reach their potential, so that they can help our clients realize theirs. This enables us to partner with clients to design and deliver improved investment outcomes.</li>
	<li>Strive for Distinctive Knowledge means that we collaboratively identify creative solutions to clients’ economic, ESG and climate- related investment challenges through our expertise in a wide range of investment disciplines, close collaboration among our investment experts and creative solutions.</li>
	<li>Speak with Courage and Conviction informs how we engage our AB colleagues and issuers. We seek to learn from other parts of our business to strengthen our own views. And we engage issuers for insight and action by sharing ideas and best practices.</li>
	<li>Act with Integrity—Always is the bedrock of our relationships and has specific meaning for our business. Unlike many other asset managers, we’re singularly focused on providing asset management and research to our clients. We don’t engage in activities that could be distracting, or create conflicts—such as investment banking, insurance writing, commercial banking or proprietary trading for our own account. We are unconflicted and fully accountable.</li>
</ul>As of March 31, 2024, AB had $759B in assets under management, $528B of which were ESG-integrated. Additional information about AB may be found on our website, <a href="https://www.3blmedia.com/track?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alliancebernstein.com%2F&amp;n=359591" target="_blank">www.alliancebernstein.com</a>.

Learn more about AB’s approach to responsibility <a href="https://www.alliancebernstein.com/corporate/en/corporate-responsibility.html?syn:pan-emea:brand:3bl:eu942" target="_blank">here.</a>

AB Named Among Best Places To Work for Disability Inclusion

Synopsys released its annual <a href="https://www.synopsys.com/company/environment-social-governance.html" target="_blank">Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report</a> highlighting environmental, social, and governance performance.

Our Smart Future ESG strategy provides a focus and structure for how we manage our own operational impact and influence others around us to create a better world. We’re focused on reducing our own environmental footprint, and leveraging our expertise, resources, and problem-solving skills to inspire positive change throughout our ecosystem. As we continue to deliver trusted silicon to systems design solutions, our technology is enabling innovations that shape a smarter world, from low-power computing to enhancing human health and well-being, to bringing safety and security to autonomous vehicles.

“We really want to be driving innovations that build a better future for us and our customers in this era of pervasive intelligence,” said Synopsys CFO Shelagh Glaser. “It’s important that we’re operating responsibly when it comes to not only our resilient business, but in terms of how we’re treating the environment and fostering a great place to work.”

This year, we made important progress advancing our Smart Future strategy and toward our ESG goals – including the reduction of our carbon footprint with science-based targets, enabling customer innovation for a greener world, and empowering our global talent.

Read on for key highlights from our 2023 ESG Report. Also, check out a highlights <a href="https://www.synopsys.com/content/dam/synopsys/company/company-pdfs/esg-report-highlights-2023.pdf" target="_blank">infographic</a>.

Living our Values and Leading with Vision

<ul><li>Synopsys received an A- leadership score from CDP for our performance on climate action, demonstrating best practices in strategy, governance, and oversight of climate issues.</li>
	<li>Our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets were validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).. We are now committed to <a href="https://www.synopsys.com/blogs/chip-design/ghg-emission-reduction-goals.html" target="_blank">four near-term science-based targets</a>. Starting with this report, we will report annually on our progress.</li>
	<li>In our May 2023 global employee survey, employee participation was at 94%, with 89% of those employees recommending Synopsys as a great place to work. In addition, Synopsys is one of the <a href="https://www.comparably.com/awards/winners/best-global-culture-2024-large" target="_blank">top ranked companies for Best Global Company Culture</a> by Comparably.</li>
</ul>These highlights capture only a portion of our overall ESG efforts. We invite you to <a href="https://www.synopsys.com/content/dam/synopsys/company/company-pdfs/synopsys-2023-esg-report.pdf" target="_blank">read the report</a> for the full story of what we accomplished in 2023.

We welcome feedback on this report and our performance. Please send comments and suggestions to <a href="mailto:esg@synopsys.com" target="_blank">ESG at Synopsys</a>.

About Synopsys 
Catalyzing the era of pervasive intelligence, Synopsys, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNPS) delivers trusted and comprehensive silicon to systems design solutions, from electronic design automation to silicon IP and system verification and validation. We partner closely with semiconductor and systems customers across a wide range of industries to maximize their R&amp;D capability and productivity, powering innovation today that ignites the ingenuity of tomorrow. Learn more at <a href="http://www.synopsys.com/" target="_blank">www.synopsys.com</a>.

Editorial Contact 
Kelli Wheeler 
Synopsys, Inc. 
(650) 584-5000 <a href="http://www.synopsys.com/" target="_blank">corp-pr@synopsys.com</a>

Synopsys Releases 2023 ESG Report: Our Commitment to a Smart Future

LEADERSHIP COMMITMENT 
“2023 was another year of NBK's steadfast dedication to sustainable practices, which was marked by the launch of our 3-year ESG Strategy Roadmap. Our roadmap lays out key goals and commitments in areas where we can significantly contribute to a sustainable and just transition to a low carbon economy. These are designed to make positive environmental and social impacts on the communities we serve. On behalf of NBK, I extend my gratitude to all our stakeholders for their consistent support. We're confident that together, we can fulfil our ESG commitments, achieving tangible results towards a sustainable, socially fair future. Let's continue forward to seize the opportunities that our shared commitment to sustainability offers.” Hamad Mohamed Al-Bahar 
Chairman

ABOUT 2023 NBK SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

This is NBK's eighth consecutive annual Sustainability Report and factsheet focusing on the 2023 fiscal year. The report provides a detailed summary of the Bank's significant ESG and sustainability matters, threats, and performance data. Here we also covered our entire ESG policies, strategies, and pledges for the reporting period. Our report is centered around the four pillars of NBK's enhanced ESG Strategy Framework. Moreover, this report is aligned with both domestic and global sustainability or ESG reporting standards and frameworks including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Sustainable Accounting Standards Board (SASB), United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG), Boursa Kuwait's ESG Reporting Guidelines, and Kuwait Vision 2035.

ABOUT NBK

NBK was established in 1952 and is the first shareholding company and a domestic bank within GCC to be locally founded. Currently, NBK is the leading conventional banking group in Kuwait. The bank also boasts about its credit ratings and brand value, positioning it among the top regional banks. NBK operates in 13 countries and boasts a network of more than 140 branches spread across 4 continents with its headquarters located in Kuwait. NBK's primary business operations include Consumer Banking, Corporate Banking, NBK Wealth and Islamic Banking (through subsidiary Boubyan Bank).

ESG AT NBK

Leadership at NBK believes that sustainability is crucial for the bank's success and is strongly committed to integrating sustainability efforts with our core business actions, risk management, services, and operations. The ESG Strategy aims to support economic growth and act as an example of sustainable development. This strategy is built around four main pillars: Governance for Resilience; Responsible Banking; Capitalizing on our Capabilities; and Investing in our Communities.

GOVERNANCE FOR RESILIENCE

NBK upholds strong ethical standards and comprehensive strategic planning, supported by transparent governance structures. Combined with our robust risk management that buffers against various risks, these key elements assure stakeholders of our powerful leadership, oversight, and accountability. In 2023, NBK launched a modular ESG governance framework with Board oversight. NBK also adopted measures to handle climate and ESG risks and opportunities. In this context, NBK institutionalized alignment with the recommendations of Taskforce on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) during the year and developed a roadmap for adequately integrating climate-related matters in the bank’s enterprise risk management framework.

Key Highlights in 2023:

<ul><li>The Board approved the Group ESG Strategy, setting a formal implementation mandate.</li>
	<li>ESG metrics have been integrated into the Board and Executive Management's responsibilities.</li>
	<li>A Sustainability &amp; Climate Change Committee, headed by the Vice Chairman &amp; GCEO, has been established.</li>
	<li>Five Sustainability Sub-Committees have been created, delegating ESG roles to the Executive Management.</li>
	<li>NBK joined the UNGC to enhance international alignment and stakeholder engagement.</li>
	<li>Maintained a score of ‘C’ from CDP, for both the Climate Change and Forest categories.</li>
</ul>RESPONSIBLE BANKING

NBK intends to enhance sustainable finance offerings and support clients' transition to sustainable business models. NBK recently incorporated ESG metrics into their client credit assessments, covering aspects like safety, environmental protection, succession planning, and governance. Moreover, we persistently monitor and handle our energy and water usage, greenhouse gas emissions, and material usage and disposal, while also ensuring it is all accurately reported

Key Highlights in 2023:

Sustainable Finance:

<ul><li>Approximately USD 3.65 billion in Sustainable Assets.</li>
	<li>Expanded bank offerings to Eco-friendly EV and Housing Loans.</li>
	<li>Updated procurement policies to include ESG principles.</li>
</ul>Energy Management: 

<ul><li>Reduced electricity consumption by 5.75% YoY and 15.8% compared to our baseline year (2021) through proactive energy management.</li>
	<li>Installed Building Energy Management System (BEMS) in 22 local branches</li>
</ul>Climate Change and Decarbonization:

<ul><li>Reduced overall disclosed GHG emissions by 10.43% compared to baseline year (2021).</li>
</ul>Responsible Procurement:

<ul><li>NBK has revised its Procurement Policy with the inclusion of ESG, implementing a more sustainable procurement strategy and methodology.</li>
	<li>Local suppliers comprised 70% of NBK's total suppliers and 84% of the total procurement spending.</li>
</ul>CAPITALIZING ON OUR CAPABILITIES

NBK's strategy of 'Capitalizing on our Capabilities' is primarily focused on promoting sustainable business growth through organizational resilience. This starts with how we manage our workplace. Our policies, culture, practices, and programs are all designed to encourage a bank-wide transformation that aligns with our sustainability goals, achieved through extensive employee engagement and development programs. Alongside outlining our HR practices, we also state our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. We strive to foster health, safety, and wellbeing, and continuously work towards establishing a flexible work environment that embraces digital solutions.

Key Highlights in 2023: Diversity, Equity &amp; Inclusion:

<ul><li>Women represent 44.0% of the workforce, with 28.8% females in managerial positions.</li>
	<li>Awarded by MEED: “Best Implementation of Diversity &amp; Inclusion Initiatives”.</li>
	<li>41.9% of new hires are female.</li>
	<li>84.5% of new hires are Kuwaitis.</li>
</ul>Employee Development:

<ul><li>Provided Sustainability Champions across the Bank with training on Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards.</li>
	<li>Introduced the Sustainability Essentials Training Program Group-wide, enhancing employees' understanding of key sustainability concepts.</li>
	<li>147,701 total training hours. On average, each employee received 6.1 training hours.</li>
	<li>Over 3,300 training hours on ESG-related topics with focus on Sustainability Awareness, Sustainable Finance, and Climate Risk Management.</li>
</ul>Employee Engagement and Wellbeing:

<ul><li>Implemented an Employee Grievance Policy, accessible to all employees via the NBK Group website.</li>
	<li>Launched the Employee Engagement Survey "Your Voice Matters" in 2023 to foster a better and more inclusive workplace.</li>
</ul>Digital Transformation:

<ul><li>Introduced a new mobile banking experience titled “Tailored for You”, offering NBK Customers the latest digital services</li>
</ul>INVESTING IN OUR COMMUNITIES

Giving back to the community is an integral part of NBK's mission and therefore 'Investing in our Communities' is a critical component of our ESG Strategy. Our community investments primarily aim to offer superior customer service, promote financial inclusion, enhance financial literacy and accessibility, and provide customer security, including data privacy. In addition, NBK has an extensive history of making sizeable financial contributions to community development. We are continuously focused on maximizing the positive social impact of our Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) investments, in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG). Key Highlights in 2023: Nationalization:

<ul><li>76.7% Nationalization rate.</li>
	<li>Launched the NBK Tech Academy in 2023, offering innovative digital transformation programs for Kuwaiti youth.</li>
</ul>Community Development:

<ul><li>Community Investments totaled KD 28 million in 2023 (USD 91 million), a 22% increase from 2022.</li>
	<li>“Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility in the Middle East 2023” by Euromoney.</li>
	<li>NBK organized a Media Awareness Workshop on Sustainability and Climate Change, the first-of-its-kind in Kuwait.</li>
	<li>Committed KD 3.0 (USD 9.8) million for the restructuring of Shuwaikh Beach Waterfront in line with NBK’s corporate responsibility and sustainability principles.</li>
</ul>Financial Inclusion: 

<ul><li>Launched new designs for all our cards aligned with our inclusivity goals, including design themes especially for the visually impaired.</li>
	<li>Launched the “BANKEE” financial literacy program in Kuwait’s schools, with 15,940 students and around 3,400 teachers participating.</li>
</ul>Women Empowerment:

<ul><li>Excellence in Inclusion, Equity, and Diversity Bronze Winner for NBK RISE by SHRM.</li>
	<li>Awarded by MEED: “Best Initiative for Women in Business”.</li>
	<li>Launched “She’s Next” initiative in partnership with VISA, a global advocacy program that aims to support women-owned small businesses.</li>
</ul>The 2023 NBK Sustainability Report can be found at: <a href="https://www.nbk.com/sustainability/sustainability-reports.html" target="_blank">https://www.nbk.com/sustainability/sustainability-reports.html</a> 
The 2023 NBK Annual Report can be found at: <a href="https://www.nbk.com/investor-relations/latest-annual-report.html" target="_blank">https://www.nbk.com/investor-relations/latest-annual-report.html</a>

For additional information about NBK’s sustainability work, please contact: 
Hisham Abouali 
Sustainability Manager <a href="mailto:sustainability@nbk.com" target="_blank">sustainability@nbk.com</a> 
Tel: +965-22295188

“Bridging the Gap: Towards a More Sustainable Future”

<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/Meet%20Kelly%20%7C%20Simply%20Engineer_HARMAN_9.5.24A.mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center>

<a href="https://www.harman.com/career/Career-Stories/Pages/Meet-Kelly---Navigating-the-World-of-Engineering-with-Empathy.aspx" target="_blank">Originally published on Life at HARMAN</a>

The Role and Responsibilities

Kelly has been with <a href="https://www.harman.com/" target="_blank">HARMAN</a> for two years and leads the North American Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) lab. The lab specializes in hardware validation testing of electronic products such as amplifiers and head units. Kelly's leadership philosophy centers around empathy, a quality she believes is often underestimated. "Sometimes empathy is overlooked as a leadership strength—but I'm here to challenge that," Kelly asserts. Leading a team of 10, she ensures the lab runs smoothly and efficiently and that the electrical components inside vehicles function as intended. This requires technical expertise, coordination, collaboration, and a deep understanding of her team members' needs and motivations.
<img alt="HARMAN Engineer Kelly with coworkers." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87ada528-da19-40ac-9b92-c0519f19ff35" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Harman%20Simply%20Engineer%20-%20Kelly_HARMAN_9.5.24A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" />The Power of Emotions

Kelly believes being aware and mindful of emotions is crucial for fostering innovation and problem-solving in tech. "Acknowledging emotions allows people to be as creative and open as possible and to think of solutions that may not be obvious." She strives to create an environment where her team feels safe and comfortable, allowing them to thrive rather than just get the job done. This approach encourages creativity and helps overcome roadblocks by fostering a sense of connection and collaboration.

Doubt is Part of Being Successful​

One of Kelly's standout moments at HARMAN was her first meeting as the lead EMC engineer. Tasked with presenting validation results to a customer and negotiating deviations for anomalies observed during testing, Kelly faced skepticism about her ability to lead. She successfully led the meeting through careful preparation and coaching, building her confidence and establishing a strong working relationship with the customer. This experience was pivotal in her development as an engineer and a leader, reinforcing her ability to handle complex technical challenges and negotiations.
<img alt="HARMAN Engineer Kelly giving a high-five." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e37dffdf-44a4-4e7f-9ffa-ca057bd17332" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Harman%20Simply%20Engineer%20-%20Kelly._HARMAN_9.5.24B.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" />Advice for Aspiring Engineers

If you ask Kelly, she will tell you to "Stay hungry for knowledge. If there's something you're curious about, explore it by asking colleagues or managers or conducting your research." Moreover, she emphasizes the importance of networking with a diverse range of professionals, not just within one's immediate circle. "You never know when a relationship can lead to your next career opportunity."

Life Outside of Work

Balancing a demanding career and family life, Kelly often finds herself playing the roles of Uber driver and cheerleader for her kids' extracurricular activities. Whether shuttling them to gymnastics or basketball practice, helping with homework, or cheering them on at competitions, Kelly brings the same dedication and empathy to her family that she does to her work. "It's all about finding solutions and keeping everything running like a machine," she confesses.  
<img alt="HARMAN Engineer Kelly sitting at her desk." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b420f558-9e2e-4fc1-9bf0-3aea3a712d6a" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Harman%20Simply%20Engineer%20-%20Kelly_HARMAN_9.5.24C.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" />Kelly's journey at HARMAN shows that empathy and leadership are not antithetic concepts but complementary realities. Her ability to balance technical acumen with emotional intelligence sets her apart as a leader in the automotive industry. Whether guiding her team through a technical challenge or supporting her kids through their activities, Kelly's empathetic approach ensures that everyone around her feels valued and empowered.​

In a field that often prioritizes hard skills, Kelly's story powerfully reminds us that empathy and human connection are just as critical for innovation and success.
<img alt="HARMAN Engineer Kelly with her son." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="98aad0ad-1866-4fa1-b136-36d6c9ca78b7" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Harman%20Simply%20Engineer%20-%20Kelly_HARMAN_9.5.24D.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="675" loading="lazy" />Follow us on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/harman-international/posts/?feedView=all" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/harman_intl/?igsh=ZzBnMnF1aDNhNTc%3D" target="_blank">Instagram​</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HarmanInt" target="_blank">Facebook</a> to learn more about our view on leadership and innovation driven by people who feel valued.

Meet HARMAN Engineer Kelly; Navigating the World of Engineering With Empathy

<img alt="Collage of photo's of students participating in Michigan Hospitality Foundation’s (MHF) ProStart Invitational" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="056d7294-3d55-436e-a59a-18d04af8bee6" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/ProStartPastaComp_Whirlpool_081524.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="751" loading="lazy" />Earlier this year, more than 400 students from across the state participated in Michigan Hospitality Foundation’s (MHF) ProStart Invitational sponsored by KitchenAid. It’s the highest-level competition for Michigan high school students training for culinary and hospitality careers. Through this program, students had the opportunity to compete against other culinary students, with the winning teams receiving an invitation to the 2024 KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship at the Harbor Shores Golf Club in Benton Harbor, Mich. for a unique culinary opportunity.

In the pasta competition, teams of young, aspiring chefs from five high schools were recognized for their pasta creations:

<ul><li>Bay Arenac ISD</li>
	<li>RCTC Ypsilanti</li>
	<li>Gaylord High School</li>
	<li>Allegan ESA</li>
	<li>DCTC Riverview High School</li>
</ul>Last month, these five high school teams were invited to work side-by-side with professional chefs at the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship. The teams reprised their pasta competition, this time judged by KitchenAid celebrity chefs in front of a live audience. They also had the opportunity to engage in educational sessions led by renowned chefs.

This in-depth experience helped the students gain insight into the hospitality industry and explore diverse career pathways. DCTC Riverview High School was crowned the grand champion with their Red Coconut Curry Pasta creation. Each team member from DCTC Riverview, including their educator, took home a KitchenAid stand mixer, and each participating team received a KitchenAid stand mixer for their classroom.

“The KitchenAid ProStart Pasta Competition took students beyond the kitchen and taught them critical life lessons around preparation, critical thinking, communication, flexibility and teamwork,” said Amanda Smith, executive director of the MHF. “These are all skills that directly relate to their future culinary careers, and experiences like this are invaluable at this point in their education.”

Opportunities in the industry are rapidly growing. Hospitality is currently an $18 billion dollar industry in Michigan supporting 595,000 jobs and ranks among the top 10 fastest growing sectors in the state with 20,000 current job openings. The KitchenAid brand hopes to further develop the next generation of culinary professionals across the state through impactful, hands-on education.

About Whirlpool Corporation

Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE: WHR) is a leading kitchen and laundry appliance company, in constant pursuit of improving life at home and inspiring generations with our brands. The company is driving meaningful innovation to meet the evolving needs of consumers through its iconic brand portfolio, including Whirlpool, KitchenAid, JennAir, Maytag, Amana, Brastemp, Consul, and InSinkErator. In 2023, the company reported approximately $19 billion in annual sales, 59,000 employees, and 55 manufacturing and technology research centers.  Additional information about the company can be found at <a href="https://www.3blmedia.com/track?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwhirlpoolcorp.com%2F&amp;n=28067" target="_blank">WhirlpoolCorp.com</a>.

View original content <a href="https://www.whirlpoolcorp.com/kitchenaid-brands-support-of-michigan-hospitality-foundation-competition-gives-students-invaluable-culinary-experience/" target="_blank">here</a>.

KitchenAid Brand’s Support of Michigan Hospitality Foundation Competition Gives Students Invaluable Culinary Experience

<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/MSAD%20Prisma%20SC_Coach%20Staley_Compliance%20%281%29.mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center>

<a href="https://newsroom.aflac.com/Legendary-Coach-Dawn-Staley-helps-give-sickle-cell-patients-a-voice-with-My-Special-Aflac-Duck" target="_blank">Originally published on Aflac Newsroom</a>

When your view of the world is through the lens of a disease that can often cause pain and require more frequent doctor visits, finding comfort is imperative. That is a reality for the approximately 100,000 Americans impacted by sickle cell disease,1 including more than 4,000 in South Carolina alone.2

That’s why, in July, three-time women's national championship-winning University of South Carolina Head Basketball Coach and Olympic legendary Coach Dawn Staley joined Aflac to deliver a dose of comfort by giving 16 pediatric sickle cell patients at Prisma Health Children's Hospital-Midlands their very own My Special Aflac Duck®. This cuddly, robotic companion is designed to give children a voice by helping them communicate their feelings, prepare for medical procedures, practice distraction techniques and more.

Pediatric sickle cell patients went on a scavenger hunt through the hospital before the children were surprised with their new, cuddly companions to keep, delivered by Staley. The sickle cell version of My Special Aflac Duck has a special cape designed to mimic a blanket, reflecting sickle cell patients who are often sensitive to changes in temperature. The cape doubles as art therapy to delight children serving as a water-activated, color-changing canvas.

The duck was designed in consult with more than 100 children, families and medical professionals in partnership with <a href="https://www.empathlabs.com/" target="_blank">Empath Labs</a> and uses medical play and lifelike movement to help children cope with their treatments. In 2022, Aflac expanded its My Special Aflac Duck program to serve pediatric patients with sickle cell with research-based updates like unique accessories designed to help reinforce care routines.
<img alt="Coach Dawn Staley shown with a patient holding a My Special Aflac Duck." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c3e25ca-b7eb-443a-950b-6f748f728993" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Aflac_Coach_Dawn_Staley_Aflac_9.10.24A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="800" loading="lazy" />Since My Special Aflac Duck was first introduced in 2018, Aflac has delivered more than 31,000 ducks to children in the United States, Japan and Northern Ireland — nearly one-third of those have been given to children diagnosed with sickle cell disease.

Aflac's commitment to pediatric cancer and blood disorders spans decades with Aflac employees, independent agents and The Aflac Foundation, Inc. contributing more than $184 million to childhood cancer and blood disorders treatment and research since 1995.

Health care providers, support organizations and families can order My Special Aflac Duck free of charge for children 3 years or older who have been diagnosed with cancer or sickle cell disease at MySpecialAflacDuck.com.

1 CDC — Fact Sheet: Sickle Cell Disease — <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/sickle-cell/media/fact-sheets/basic-information/what-you-should-know-about-scd.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/sickle-cell/media/fact-sheets/basic-information/what-you-should-know-about-scd.pdf</a>. Accessed Sept. 5, 2024.

2 Prisma Health. Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Program — Midlands. <a href="https://prismahealthchildrens.org/programs-and-services/hospital-services/comprehensive-sickle-cell-disease-program/sickle-cell-program-midlands" target="_blank">https://prismahealthchildrens.org/programs-and-services/hospital-services/comprehensive-sickle-cell-disease-program/sickle-cell-program-midlands</a>. Accessed Sept. 5, 2024.

Z2400790

When your view of the world is through the lens of a disease that can often cause pain and require more frequent doctor visits, finding comfort is imperative. That is a reality for the approximately 100,000 Americans impacted by sickle cell disease.

Legendary Coach Dawn Staley Helps Give Sickle Cell Patients a Voice With My Special Aflac Duck®

<center><iframe allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" src="https://www.3blmedia.com/sites/default/files/2024-09/Central%20State%20University%20Impact%20Investment%20%7C%20KeyBank.mp4" width="100%"></iframe></center>

<a href="https://www.key.com/personal/index.html" target="_blank">KeyBank</a> and the <a href="https://www.key.com/about/corporate-responsibility/keybank-foundation.html" target="_blank">KeyBank Foundation</a> proudly announced an investment of $480,000 in Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and 1890 Land-Grant Institution, <a href="https://www.centralstate.edu/" target="_blank">Central State University</a> (CSU). Grant dollars given to the university will establish the KeyBank Scholars (KBS) Program to implement summer bridge programs, providing tuition support for 40 students over a five-year period.

The KBS Program will become a part of CSU’s Student and Institutional Success Model (SISM) geared to improve student academic outcomes. The program will be a robust scholarship and student development intervention to enhance the student experience and promote long term student success outcomes.

“All of us at KeyBank are so proud to partner with Central State University to establish the KeyBank Scholars Program,” said Jeff Bardonaro, Dayton KeyBank Market President. “We are committed to helping local students and families thrive by providing tuition support to help them reach their goals. This investment will help ensure a bright future for many CSU students and build even stronger communities in our region for years to come.”

“Central State University is deeply honored to partner with KeyBank in establishing the KeyBank Scholars Program,” said President Dr. Morakinyo A.O. Kuti ,Central State University. “This significant investment underscores the importance of providing our students with not only financial support but also the developmental resources they need to thrive. The program aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering academic excellence and long-term success for our students. Through this partnership, we are building a brighter future for our scholars, empowering them to become leaders who will make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”
<img alt="KeyBank and representatives from , Central State University shown with a $480,000 grant check." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ae6bdd6-7004-4f6c-8e81-d86aa61cbf20" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/KeyBank%20supports%20Central%20State%20University%20with%20Impact%20Grant_KeyBank_9.10.24A.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="836" loading="lazy" />Over the grant period, 40 students will take part in a summer bridge program for five weeks prior to their first year of college with the objective to adjust participants to academic and social undergraduate experience. Participants will receive $2,000 per year for four years in scholarships upon meeting program criteria. Those enrolled in the program must maintain a 3.0 GPA to receive scholarship awards.

Previous CSU summer bridge program results show that 83% of participants are on track to graduate within regular program schedule with an average GPA of 3.15. In comparison, the national four-year graduation rate for all students is 45%, African American students is 26%.

ABOUT KEYCORP

KeyCorp's roots trace back nearly 200 years to Albany, New York. Headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Key is one of the nation's largest bank-based financial services companies, with assets of approximately $187 billion at June 30, 2024.

Key provides deposit, lending, cash management, and investment services to individuals and businesses in 15 states under the name KeyBank National Association through a network of approximately 1,000 branches and approximately 1,200 ATMs. Key also provides a broad range of sophisticated corporate and investment banking products, such as merger and acquisition advice, public and private debt and equity, syndications and derivatives to middle market companies in selected industries throughout the United States under the KeyBanc Capital Markets trade name. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.key.com/" target="_blank">https://www.key.com/</a>. KeyBank Member FDIC.

ABOUT CENTRAL STATE UNIVERSITY

Central State University is a public HBCU and 1890 Land-Grant Institution with an over 135-year tradition of preparing students from diverse backgrounds and experiences for leadership, research, and service. The University fosters academic excellence within a nurturing environment and provides a solid liberal arts foundation and STEM-Ag curriculum leading to professional careers and advanced studies globally.

EEO Statement: Central State University, an 1890 Land-Grant Institution, offers its programs and activities to people of diverse backgrounds and does not discriminate on the basis of age, ancestry, race, color, disability, gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS status, marital or family status, military status, national origin, political beliefs, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status. The University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution. For inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies or accessibility, please contact the Department of Human Resources at 937-376-6540.

KeyBank and the KeyBank Foundation proudly announced an investment of $480,000 in Ohio’s only public Historically Black College or University (HBCU) and 1890 Land-Grant Institution, Central State University (CSU). 

KeyBank Invests $480,000 in Central State University to Establish the KeyBank Scholars Program, Provide Tuition Support for Students 

<img alt="Three people posing and smiling" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4d7af3a5-4778-4448-9dd9-3fca65e22b9f" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/dna-success-marcez-mitchells-philosophy-leadership_INTERNATIONAL-PAPER_090524.jpg" width="640" class="align-center" height="720" loading="lazy" /><blockquote>
Authenticity is critical to leadership. That means trying to be yourself — this involves some self-disclosure, admitting what you don’t know and being willing to ask questions. 

-Robert S. Kaplan, Emeritus Professor of Leadership at the Harvard Business School
</blockquote>

North American Container’s (NAC) specialty products may not be the first thing people think of when IP comes to mind, but it is a team that is quickly making a strong impact with customers. NAC Specialty is thriving because of its leadership team. Marcez Mitchell is the VP of NAC Specialty, and his ability to lead with grace and intentionality has helped this team become what it is today.

NAC Communications Coordinator, Michelle Winetrout, had the opportunity to sit down with Marcez and learn about his leadership philosophy and what his plans are for the future of NAC and IP.

A graduate of Clemson University, Marcez started his IP career as a summer intern in 1999 and gained an array of experiences across the company, including forest resources, procurement and supply planning. By 2020, Marcez took on a director role in Supply Chain, and later, he became general manager for NAC’s <a href="https://www.internationalpaper.com/packaging/paper-bags" target="_blank">bag</a> and <a href="https://www.internationalpaper.com/packaging/molded-fiber" target="_blank">molded fiber</a> business in April of 2023. He was promoted to his current leadership role in November of 2023.

<blockquote>
Marcez attributes his success to being as authentic as possible, even in challenging situations. He strives not to let a title, department or business modify his DNA, thus allowing him the freedom to be real and personable whether he is in the office or at home, just like his father.
</blockquote>

Growing up, Marcez watched his father take on many titles in the church where he worked. No matter the title, his father continued to be himself and was someone people could always rely on. It made him an effective leader.

Marcez strives to reflect his father’s ability to lead the people around him by being authentic, true and, most importantly, “being able to deliver tough news in the way that people can digest rather than pushing people away.” Marcez believes that a great leader can tell the truth with grace no matter the situation. He says that this quality “provides a level of transparency, and with transparency, [one] can more easily develop trust.,” Trust, he asserts, is what builds a great team.

His father also taught him to deliver good news in a “manner that people feel appreciated along the way.” Great leaders learn from the leaders before them, and that is exactly what Marcez has done.

<blockquote>
Trust...is what builds a great team.
</blockquote>

This leadership philosophy, when applied to NAC Specialty, guides the team towards success through innovation and finding new ways to say “yes” to the customer. Marcez believes that in order to strengthen the NAC Specialty businesses — paper bags, molded fiber, <a href="https://www.internationalpaper.com/services/graphic-design-services" target="_blank">Enhanced Graphics Solutions</a>, <a href="https://www.internationalpaper.com/packaging/bulk/spacekraft" target="_blank">SpaceKraft®</a>, and the specialty retail and packaging display group — they have to take risks and take on new ideas that build off of older practices. NAC Specialty has always made money, he says, but being satisfied with that will only move the business horizontally. To move vertically, they have embraced the profitability mindset. NAC Specialty has just begun to scratch the surface of what they can offer to IP.

There is a world of opportunity for NAC Specialty, and Marcez is ready to lead the group every step of the way. He believes that this is one of the most exciting areas of IP to be a part of given the magnitude of opportunity on the horizon. The growing support behind the Specialty business has allowed for the team’s innovative ideas and rapid growth, and, through any successes or failures, Marcez has held close to his values and is diligently leading NAC Specialty with authenticity and trust.

About International Paper 
International Paper (NYSE: IP) is a global producer of sustainable packaging, pulp and other fiber-based products, and one of the world's largest recyclers. Headquartered in Memphis, Tenn., we employ approximately 39,000 colleagues globally who are committed to creating what's next. We serve customers worldwide, with manufacturing operations in North America, Latin America, North Africa and Europe. Net sales for 2023 were $18.9 billion. Additional information can be found by visiting <a href="https://www.3blmedia.com/track?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.3blmedia.com%2Ftrack%3Fu%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.internationalpaper.com%252F%26n%3D1257576&amp;n=1270146" target="_blank">internationalpaper.com/.</a>

North American Container’s (NAC) specialty products may not be the first thing people think of when IP comes to mind, but it is a team that is quickly making a strong impact with customers.

Latest