UK Named to Forbes List of Best Employers for Women 2022

The University of Kentucky has been named to the Forbes list of America’s Best Employers for Women. This is the university’s first year on the list — appearing as number 88 out of 400 companies. UK is among the top 10 companies in the education space.

Providing a culture dedicated to mentorship and professional development, UK works tirelessly to create pathways for empowerment and leadership for all staff and faculty. 

“As a female executive, I’m proud the university is a leader in this space,” said Gina Dugas, UK associate vice president for finance and administration and acting vice president and chief human resources officer. “This latest recognition from Forbes affirms our efforts to be an employer of choice for the very best faculty and staff.”The best employers for women were chosen based on an independent survey of 50,000 employees currently employed at companies with at least 1,000 workers in their U.S. operations. The evaluation was based on four different criteria: 

• Direct recommendations (general work topics): Employees were asked to give their opinion on a series of statements surrounding the likelihood of recommendation, atmosphere and development, image, working conditions, salary and wage, workplace and diversity regarding their own employer.
• Direct recommendations (topics relevant to women): Women were asked to rate their own employers regarding parental leave, family support, flexibility, discrimination, representation and career and pay equity. 
• Indirect recommendations: Participants were given the chance to evaluate other employers in their respective industries that stand out either positively or negatively in regard to diversity. Only the recommendations of women were considered.
• Diversity among top executives/board: Based on extensive research, an index was built based on the share of women in executive management or board positions.

The university has a long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion, a focus that is central to the university’s mission to serve the Commonwealth. 

“Research shows that women in particular are attracted to employers with a strong mission,” Dugas said. “Along with its strong mission, UK also has robust work-life resources to help all employees balance their personal and professional responsibilities.”

“This significant recognition for the university reflects the strong and continued support that I’ve received as a leader and a woman throughout my time at the institution,” said J. Kirsten Turner, UK vice president for student success.

In addition to this recognition, UK was recently named a best employer for new graduates, a best employer for diversity and a best employer in the state by Forbes. 

In a relentless pursuit of achieving inclusive excellence, this recognition is a testament to the progress we as a university are making. While we will always strive for more, as a university, we know we are moving in the right direction. 

http://uknow.uky.edu/campus-news/uk-named-forbes-list-best-employers-women-2022