Ogletree Deakins Earns Excellence in Workplace Diversity Award from South Carolina Chamber of Commerce

GREENVILLE, S.C. – November 18, 2016 – Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C. (Ogletree Deakins), one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management, is pleased to announce that the firm’s Greenville office was awarded the Excellence in Workplace Diversity Award by the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce. The Excellence in Workplace Diversity Award recognizes companies for their significant contributions to the advancement of South Carolina through diversity initiatives and inclusion efforts. Ogletree Deakins was recognized in the small employer category for the firm’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, through initiatives such as the Ogletree Deakins Women’s Initiative (ODWIN), affinity groups, and the work of the firm’s Diversity and Inclusion Steering Committee.

“We are honored to receive the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce’s Excellence in Workplace Diversity Award,” said Michelle Wimes, Ogletree Deakins’ director of professional development and inclusion. “We recognize the critical importance of recruiting and retaining diverse attorneys who help the firm creatively and efficiently address issues in the workplace. Because of our attorneys’ diverse backgrounds, we have a wealth of perspective and awareness that we leverage to create effective solutions for our clients.”

Established in 2013, the Excellence in Workplace Diversity Award honors South Carolina’s leading companies in diversity initiatives. Applicants were judged by a committee of independent organizations on criteria including diversity initiatives, effectiveness, and applicability/replicability. Ogletree Deakins received the award at the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce’s 37^th Annual Summit.

“We are honored to have the State Chamber recognize our commitment to diversity and inclusion.  We firmly believe having a diversely rich environment allows us to present premiere legal services to our diverse client base,” said Mike Shetterly, office managing shareholder of the firm’s Greenville office. “Diversity and inclusion are at the core of our firm’s values and as we continue to grow, so will our strategic planning for inclusion.”

About Ogletree Deakins
Ogletree Deakins is one of the largest labor and employment law firms representing management in all types of employment-related legal matters. Premier client service, as outlined in the firm’s Client Pledge, is one of the firm’s top priorities and a cornerstone of its core values. U.S. News – Best Lawyers^® “Best Law Firms” has named Ogletree Deakins a “Law Firm of the Year” for six consecutive years. In 2017, the publication named Ogletree Deakins its “Law Firm of the Year” in the Labor Law – Management category. Ogletree Deakins has more than 750 attorneys located in 49 offices across the United States and in Europe, Canada, and Mexico. The firm represents a diverse range of clients, from small businesses to Fortune 50 companies. 

About South Carolina Chamber of Commerce
The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce is the unified voice of business in the Palmetto State. The South Carolina Chamber works to find solutions for issues facing businesses, ensuring this state is a top destination for economic development. Serving thousands of companies of all sizes and industries, the Chamber creates an environment for businesses and communities to grow.