For the 12th 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 2017 winners will be recognized during a symposium and awards program on Wednesday, May 3, 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 was one of 28 large employers, out of the total of 137 organizations honored this year.

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.

“Profitability and stability is essential for businesses in today’s economic climate.  Companies that recognize that their employees are the key to their success achieve staying power.  Our 2017 winners create their human resource standards to ensure employee satisfaction and they set standards for every business to aspire toward,” said Jennifer Kluge, president and CEO of B&B Programs.  “We are proud to honor this year’s winners.”

“West Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Newsradio WOOD 1300 and 106.9 FM, Grand Rapids Business Journal, Davenport University, DTE Energy, Kelly Services, Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC, Baudville, Elwood Staffing, Northwood University, BASIC, The Employers’ Association, Ulliance, Comerica, National Diagnostic Services, Hello West Michigan, Relocation America International, Dave and Busters, EG Workforce Solutions, Consumers Credit Union and The Orsus Group.

“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.