For the 14th consecutive year, Hope College has been named one of “West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For®.”

The winners were chosen for having the most innovative and thoughtful approaches to human resources, and represent industries as diverse as the automotive, construction, financial, manufacturing and non-profit sectors.  Hope and the region’s other 2019 winners were recognized during a symposium and luncheon awards program on Thursday, May 7, at the JW Marriott in Grand Rapids.

Winners are pooled by the size of their organization:  small (1-100 employees); medium (101-300 employees) and large (301-plus employees).  Hope has approximately 1,000 employees.

An independent research firm evaluates each company’s entry based on key measures in various categories.  They include Compensation, Benefits and Employee Solutions; Employee Enrichment, Engagement and Retention; Employee Education and Development; Recruitment, Selection and Orientation; Employee Achievement and Recognition; Communication and Shared Vision; Diversity and Inclusion; Work-Life Balance; Community Initiatives; Strategic Company Performance; and the Best of the Best Small Business, Medium Business and Large Business.

“We are honored to recognize the efforts of this year’s ‘Best and Brightest’ companies,” said Jennifer Kluge, president and CEO of Best and Brightest Programs.  “These companies have created impressive organizational value and business results through their policies and best practices in human resource management.  This award has become a designation sought after by hundreds of West Michigan companies and is a powerful recruitment tool in the drive to attract and retain exceptional employees.”

“West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For®” is sponsored by BASIC, Baudville Brands, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, ABC 13 News, Newsradio WOOD 1300 and 106.9 FM, Grand Rapids Business Journal, Davenport University, DTE Energy, Kelly Services, Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC, The Employers’ Association, National Diagnostic Services, Consumers Credit Union, Paylocity, Schupan & Sons, and SpartanNash.

“The Best and Brightest Companies to Work For®” is a program that provides the business community with the opportunity to gain recognition, showcase their best practices and demonstrate why they are an ideal place for employees to work.  The national program celebrates those companies that are making better business, creating richer lives and building a stronger community as a whole.  It is presented annually in several markets, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Milwaukee, San Diego, San Francisco Bay Area, West Michigan and nationally.  More information is available at 101bestandbrightest.com.