Eagan, Minnesota: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota held their annual Veterans Day event at the corporate headquarters in Eagan, Minnesota. Four Patriot Awards and the Extraordinary Employer Support Award were presented by Minnesota ESGR representatives. Shown receiving the awards are Minnesota ESGR Awards Director Jack Grams, Heidi McNeil-Vice President, Enterprise Strategy, Dana Erickson-President and CEO, Holly Scholl-Sr. Director, Sustainability, Meggie Wittorf-Director, Marketing, and Minnesota ESGR Training Director John Kingrey. 

Not pictured is Eric Hoag- Vice President, Provider Relations. 


Eric was nominated by SGT Travis Brownberg with the Minnesota Army National Guard. Holly was nominated by MAJ John Lunieski with the United States Air Force Reserve. Heidi and Meggie were nominated by CPT Joe Fruhman with the United States Air Force Reserve. Dana Erickson, President and CEO accepted the Extraordinary Employer Support Award on behalf of Blue Cross Blue Shield.  The Extraordinary Employer Support Award was approved by National ESGR and the nomination was made by Minnesota ESGR. The awards were presented at the annual Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota Veterans Day program which was attended and viewed by over 80 employees.

In their nominations, the servicemembers wrote that the company continues valuable employee benefits while on military duty. They also praised their supervisors for their unwavering support. Blue Cross Blue Shield Minnesota was the first Minnesota health plan to be designated a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company and is a past recipient of the Pro Patria and Above and Beyond Awards from ESGR. 

ESGR is a Department of Defense office that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. This year, ESGR celebrates 50 years of excellence in support of the Reserve Components and their civilian employers. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil.  

Photo left to right: Jack Grams, Heidi McNeil, Dana Erickson, Holly Scholl Meggie Wittorf, and John Kingrey. 

.

(Photo courtesy of BCBS Minnesota)