Winner: Renee Connolly, VP, US Communications, EMD Serono
Renee Connolly spearheaded a company policy providing EMD Serono employees with two days each year to get involved in community service. In 2010 EMD Serono and Pfizer assembled a team of 250 riders to take part in the Cape Cod Getaway, a two-day, 150-mile bike ride benefiting the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The effort raised more than $185,000 for the cause.
Other volunteer efforts include a job shadow program with local high school students, work with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, building projects with the Franklin Park Zoo and New England Wildlife Center and delivering flowers to cancer patients. Under Connolly’s leadership, EMD Serono employees more than doubled their volunteer hours. —Regina D’Alesio
CSR Best Practice: “Engage employees in a variety of ways—financial contributions, time, in-kind goods and pro bono services to maximize participation,” says Connolly. “We have seen the benefits throughout the company and in our employees’ personal lives.”
Honorable Mention:
Bill Bullard, Director of Corporate Relations for Latin America & The Caribbean, Diageo: Bill Bullard’s passion is the “Learning for Life” initiative, which provides the less fortunate with education and training in tourism, the arts, hospitality, entrepreneurship, retail and teaching.