Merlin G. Pope Scholarship and Awards
Merlin G. Pope, Jr. Award for Outstanding Leadership and Commitment to Promoting Diversity in the Corporate Community presented to John E. Pepper
On behalf of the Cincinnati Human Relations Commission (CHRC) and Pope & Associates, Inc., John E. Pepper, P&G Chairman, Executive Committee of the Board, has been selected as the first recipient of the annual Merlin G. Pope, Jr. Award for Outstanding Leadership and Commitment to Promoting Diversity in the Corporate Community. The award sponsored by Pope & Associates, is given to a person who goes beyond intellectual commitment to provide vision and meaningful leadership in the area of diversity. The award was presented at the 60th Annual Meeting of CHRC, April 24, 2003 at Cincinnati Music Hall.
Merlin G. Pope, Jr. was a nationally known leader and pioneer in diversity. He began his professional career as a freelance consultant at Procter & Gamble in 1973. Mr. Pope set many precedents with his balanced non-blameful approach, his focus on the link between diversity and productivity, and his innovative programs, such as Consulting Pairs®. Merlin believed that, .diversity can be a tremendous source of strength or weakness, but it will not be neutral,. therefore, encouraging managers to make diversity a business priority by focusing on and developing the inherent potential in diverse groups
The demographics of our organizations and communities are changing. The labor force will look very different in the future. The question is, .Will we be able to make this more diverse workforce work together effectively?. That is why leaders are being recognized for having the vision to make diversity a business priority. Last year, the U.S. Army Reserves created an annual award in Merlin Pope.s name that will be given to the Non-commissioned Officer who demonstrates commitment to equal opportunity and diversity, as well as effectiveness in human relations. (see story below)
Undoubtedly, John Pepper truly possesses the character, dedication, and integrity that this new award symbolizes. His unwavering commitment and support for diversity over the last two decades are well known and have been witnessed and experienced by many, both inside and outside of Procter & Gamble. .I know of no one who has done more for human relations in our city than John Pepper,. said Dr. Art Shriberg, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of CHRC.
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