(DENVER) - The 2021 recipients of the American Water Works Association’s Diversity & Inclusion Award are Cathy Bailey (individual award winner) and Xylem (organizational award winner). 

The awards recognize an individual, group or organization that has created and maintained diversity and inclusion by establishing an environment that recognizes and effectively utilizes individual talents.

Bailey, executive director of the Greater Cincinnati Water Works, is the first African American to lead Cincinnati’s major, independent municipal water utility in its 200-year history. In that role, Bailey supports mentoring efforts by connecting businesses and civic groups with students in economically challenged schools. Bailey regularly serves as a panelist at Gals in Government, which helps young women learn and train to either run for office or advocate for their communities as a citizen, neighbor or leader.

With approximately 16,000 employees working in 150 countries, Xylem is committed to fostering a workplace that creates a sense of belonging and equity for everyone. Xylem aims to accomplish its five global diversity and inclusion goals by 2025. The Xylem Employee Network Groups connect employees and allies of specific affinity and ensure they have an opportunity to be heard, valued and engaged.

AWWA supports diversity and inclusion as being essential to the growth, structure and continued success of any organization. 

The awards will be presented during AWWA’s Annual Conference & Exposition.