Recognition of Hillsborough County Public Schools as "Corporation of the Year" by the Florida Minority Supplier Development Council

Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) was named "Corporation of the Year" by the Florida Minority Supplier Development Council (FMSDC). The prestigious honor recognizes exemplary achievements in the area of minority business development. This marks the first time FMSDC has recognized a school district as its "Corporation of the Year." In 2008, HCPS increased the amount spent with minority businesses to $28 million. Contracts valued at $100,000 or more were awarded by HCPS to 66 small businesses. The school system's Facilities Division was specifically recognized for unbundling large contracts to provide more opportunities for small business owners.

FMSDC's Corporation of the Year award is regarded as the most significant honor presented to a major corporation for the utilization of Asian, African-American, Hispanic, and Native American suppliers. The award was presented to HCPS Supplier Diversity Officer Henry J. Ballard, Jr. at FMSDC's 26th Annual Trade Fair and Conference Award Banquet held on June 25 in Orlando.

Representing HCPS at the awards ceremony were the following:

• Carol Kurdell, School Board Chair
• Doretha Edgecomb and April Griffin, School Board Members
• Cathy Valdes, Chief Facilities Officer
• Henry J. Ballard, Jr., Supplier Diversity Officer
• Bob Morrison, President of Morrison & Associates, Inc.