Now in its sixth year, the NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal recognizes companies that demonstrate exemplary employment practices for people with disabilities. This annual recognition is designed to commend those organizations that are leading the way in disability hiring and to encourage other companies to tap into the many benefits of hiring talent with disabilities, including strong consumer preference for companies that employ individuals with disabilities and greater employee engagement across the workforce.
“Disability is at the heart of our diversity and inclusion strategy at Reed Smith and so we are delighted to have been recognized by the NOD this year” said Carolyn Pepper, co-partner chair of Reed Smith’s disability Business Inclusion Group, LEADRS.
The NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal is awarded based on data provided by companies in response to the NOD Disability Employment Tracker™, a free and confidential assessment that benchmarks companies’ disability inclusion programs in the following areas:
- Climate & Culture
- People Practices
- Talent Sourcing
- Workplace & Technology
- Strategy & Metrics
While the Tracker is confidential, organizations may opt to be considered for the NOD Leading Disability Employer Seal. Responses are scored, taking into account both disability employment practices and performance. Scoring prioritizes practices that are associated with increased disability employment outcomes over time, and companies receive additional points based on the percentage of people with disabilities in their workforce.
“America's success in the world depends on how well we inspire and put to use the talents and energies of every person in this country,” said NOD Chairman Governor Tom Ridge. “It was the vision of President George H.W. Bush, who signed the ADA into law, that no ability is to be wasted and that everyone has a full and equal chance to play a part in our national progress. We at NOD remain committed to seeing that vision fulfilled by working closely with corporate America to help them achieve their disability inclusion goals. These 68 organizations certainly have stepped up and are doing just that, and we applaud their leadership and thank them for their commitment to hiring people with disabilities.”
Reed Smith is a disability-smart organization, and disability is an essential pillar of the firm’s diversity and inclusion program. LEADRS, alongside the firm’s Mental Health Task Force and Wellness program, supports and enhances the professional, personal, and career development of people with all types of disabilities – physical, mental, visible and non-visible, permanent and temporary – both at the firm and within the legal profession. Through its internal network, commitment to creating an accommodating workplace, and affiliations with organizations, law schools and clients whose values align with the firm’s, Reed Smith is determined to be the law firm of choice for persons with disabilities.
For more information on the 2020 NOD Leading Disability Employers, please visit nod.org.
About Reed Smith
Reed Smith is a dynamic international law firm dedicated to helping clients move their businesses forward. Our belief is that by delivering smarter and more creative legal services, we will not only enrich our clients’ experiences with us, but also support them in achieving their business goals.
Our long-standing relationships, international outlook, and collaborative structure make us the go-to partner for the speedy resolution of complex disputes, transactions, and regulatory matters.
For further information, please visit reedsmith.com.
