Recognition of Hillsborough County Public Schools Receiving the Director's Award from the Florida Department of Management Services Office of Supplier Diversity

The Florida Department of Management Services (DMS) Office of Supplier Diversity recently recognized Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) with the Director's Award, an award honoring minority-owned businesses and corporate and government partners. Henry J. Ballard, Jr., HCPS Supplier Diversity Officer, accepted the award that recognizes the district as a "tireless advocate for supplier diversity, providing input and guidance to OSD on the role of small businesses."

Between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2008, the Small Business Encouragement program administered by HCPS Office of Supplier Diversity generated more than $45.4 million worth of business opportunities to participating vendors.

The Director's Award is the third such recognition the district's minority business encouragement program has received in the last year.

Torey L. Alston, Executive Director of the State's Office of Supplier Diversity, will be in attendance to present the award to the School Board as part of its Recognition Meeting.