LAUREL, Miss. – The Women’s Forum of New York recognized Sanderson Farms at its biennial Breakfast of Corporate Champions for the company’s achievement in actively advancing women on its corporate board. Sanderson qualified for invitation by measurably exceeding the national average of board seats held by women. Sanderson Farms doubles the national average of female board members with 35 percent, leading its Fortune 1000 peers.

“We are delighted to salute companies and leaders by accelerating the advancement of women onto corporate boards and reaping the rewards,” said Carolyn Carter, president of Women’s Forum of New York. “By shining a light on their successes, we hope to inspire others and help achieve gender balance in the boardroom.”

2020 Women on Boards, a national campaign dedicated to increasing the percentage of women on corporate boards to 20 percent by 2020, has recognized Sanderson Farms each year since 2011, when the campaign first began tracking board diversity.

“Our female leadership has played a crucial role in our accomplishments as a company, and we couldn’t be prouder of their contributions,” said Joe F. Sanderson, president and CEO of Sanderson Farms. “We are grateful to the Women’s Forum of New York for recognizing our company’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.” 

Panelists and speakers at the event in New York City included Michele Buck, president and CEO of The Hershey Co.; Hubert Joly, chairman and CEO of Best Buy Company Inc.; and Larry Merlo, president and CEO of CVS Health.