Award honors ADOT's commitment to diversity in business

PHOENIX – The Arizona Department of Transportation is being honored for its commitment to diversity in business relationships with suppliers and contractors.

The Arizona Million Dollar Circle of Excellence award, presented by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Minority Business Development Agency, recognizes organizations whose practices support small businesses owned by minorities and women.

“This agency is grounded in the values of accountability, integrity and respect,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said. “The commitment to diversity recognized by this award speaks to one core way we hold ourselves to the highest professional standards.”

Gonzalo A. de la Melena Jr., president and CEO of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, said Hispanics impact every segment of Arizona’s economy, including the transportation infrastructure.

“So we’re pleased to have a partner in the Arizona Department of Transportation as we promote diversity in hiring, promotion and the supply chain pipeline,” he said.

Those selected for this honor have helped disadvantaged business enterprises earn more than $1 million in the past year. In ADOT’s case, the contracts were worth more than $25 million.

“ADOT employees have worked extensively to connect with the diversity of Arizona’s business community,” Halikowski said. “In addition to informing about potential bid opportunities, they educate firms about how to do business with ADOT.”

ADOT will receive the award Friday, Nov. 13, in Phoenix at the Business Diversity Summit organized by the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Minority Business Development Agency.