Giant Eagle Receives 2024 Governor's Inclusive Employer Award

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)-Today, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) announced Giant Eagle, Inc. as the 2024 Governor's Inclusive Employer Award winner for their commitment to individuals with disabilities in the workplace.

Moments after taking the oath of office, Governor DeWine signed Executive Order 2019-03D, which established Ohio as a Disability Inclusion State and a Model Employer of Individuals with Disabilities. To reinforce his commitment to Ohioans with disabilities, H.B. 110 included presenting an award during October's National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to employers who meet the criteria for having a workplace inclusive of individuals with disabilities.

"We celebrate Giant Eagle's commitment to creating an inclusive workplace for Ohioans with disabilities," said Governor DeWine. "Their proactive approach not only strengthens our workforce but also sets a powerful example for other employers and helps to ensure that every Ohioan has the opportunity to contribute their talents and thrive in our communities."

Giant Eagle has demonstrated its dedication by actively participating in job fairs specifically aimed at individuals with disabilities, attending eight such events in Ohio over the past year. This effort has resulted in a successful partnership with OOD, leading to the hiring of more than 180 new Team Members in the past year.

The company prioritizes comprehensive training for all new hires, including disability inclusion. They ensure that all internal training programs are accessible, featuring closed captioning and audio-visual support. Notably, their "My Giant Eagle" commercials include American Sign Language (ASL) to enhance communication with guests who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

Giant Eagle's Abilities Business Resource Group (ABRG) plays a crucial role in supporting Team Members and guests with disabilities. This year, the ABRG has initiated accessibility walks in supermarket locations to identify and eliminate barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. Additionally, partnerships with organizations like the Cleveland Sight Center have facilitated learning sessions aimed at better supporting Team Members with disabilities.

Pictured left to right: Jon Zakikhani, Legacy Village Giant Eagle Store Leader; Pat Scullin, Vice President of Regional Operations at Giant Eagle; Christine Schwartz, Giant Eagle Senior Team Member Relations Specialist; Jeremy Greene, Legacy Village Giant Eagle Team Member; Kelly McCormick, Vice President of Inclusion and Talent Outreach and Engagement at Giant Eagle; Nia McKinney, Legacy Village Giant Eagle Team Member; Kevin L. Miller, OOD Director; Devonne Tinnon, Legacy Village Giant Eagle Team Member; John Germaine, OOD Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor; Traci Conkling, OOD Area Manager; and Jenny Smith, Giant Eagle Regional Business Leader.

"Giant Eagle exemplifies what it means to be an inclusive employer. Their dedication to sourcing candidates with disabilities not only enriches their workforce but also sets a standard for businesses across Ohio," said Kevin L Miller, OOD Director. "This partnership is a true win-win, benefiting both the company and the talented individuals they employ."

"We are extremely appreciative of this recognition from Governor DeWine and our partners at Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities," said Kelly McCormick, Vice President of Inclusion and Talent Outreach and Engagement at Giant Eagle, Inc. "At Giant Eagle, we are committed to supporting a culture where everyone can thrive and our Team Members with disabilities play a critical role in how we show up for our communities every day."

OOD determined the criteria for the award in alignment with its Inclusive Employer Toolkit: Inclusive Workplace; Recruiting, Hiring, and Supporting Employees; Workplace Accommodations; and Workplace Accessibility. A five-member committee used a predetermined scoring rubric focused on the employer's descriptions of policies, processes, and activities surrounding inclusive employment.

Additionally, MetroHealth, CareSource, and Meijer each scored more than 80 points on their application and are recognized as Ohio Inclusive Employers.

OOD offers its sincere gratitude and appreciation to all employer partners for their commitment to Ohioans with disabilities. Employers looking to diversify and strengthen their workforce by including people with disabilities can learn more about partnering with OOD at their Business Relations Team webpage.

About OOD

OOD is the state agency responsible for empowering Ohioans with disabilities through employment, disability determinations, and independence.

About Giant Eagle

Giant Eagle, Inc., ranked among the top 50 on Forbes magazine's largest private corporations list, is one of the nation's largest food retailers and distributors, with approximately $11.4 billion in annual sales. Founded in 1931, Giant Eagle, Inc. has grown to be a leading food, fuel, and pharmacy retailer in the region, with more than 470 stores throughout western Pennsylvania, north central Ohio, northern West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana. Giant Eagle's Respect for People philosophy is a top priority of the company. Giant Eagle wants everyone to feel welcome to apply to Giant Eagle, and the retailer strives to select the best-qualified person for each position.