Nationwide wins National Black MBA Association’s 2012 Silver Torch Award

Award Recognizes Nationwide’s Commitment to Recruiting and Developing Diverse Talent

COLUMBUS, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nationwide Insurance proudly announced today it has been awarded the Silver Torch Award from the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) for Nationwide’s workplace diversity initiatives encouraging minority professionals to advance in strategic organizational positions. The award is presented annually to the corporation or individual who has made the greatest gains to promote equal opportunities that challenge and encourage minority professionals to develop and advance in strategic positions within their organization.

“We understand the value of recruiting and developing talent. We strive to bring a broad spectrum of views to the table every day, which in turn leads to better solutions for our members.”

“Nationwide is truly honored to accept this award from our partner the National Black MBA Association,” said Gale King, Chief Human Resources and Administrative Officer for Nationwide. “We understand the value of recruiting and developing talent. We strive to bring a broad spectrum of views to the table every day, which in turn leads to better solutions for our members.”

"Nationwide stands on the front lines with us helping us ensure that diversity and exceptional talent stays in the marketplace," said Kim Wilson, Acting President and Vice President of Strategic Program Initiatives, National Black MBA Association. "They continuously provide needed resources, great counsel and opportunities to our organization at both the national and local chapter levels."

Nationwide has earned a number of diversity awards and honors including: Best Places to Work for Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual, Transgender Equality from The Human Rights Campaign; one of the Top Companies and Organizations for Diversity & Inclusion for 2011 by Uptown Professional magazine; recognition from The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, the Iowa State Chairman Award and one of the Top 100 Companies to Work for in 2011 by Savoy magazine.

Established in 1970, the National Black MBA Association, Inc. (NBMBAA) is dedicated to developing partnerships that result in the creation of intellectual and economic wealth in the black community through its five channels of engagement; education, career, leadership, entrepreneurship, and lifestyle. With 40‐plus chapters, a membership base of more than 8,000 and more than 450 corporate partners, the NBMBAA provides access to its constituents through services such as the Annual NBMBAA Conference; Local Empowerment Initiatives; and other programs. To learn more about the NBMBAA or to become a member, visit www.nbmbaa.org.

About Nationwide

Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the U.S. and is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor’s. The company provides customers a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto insurance, motorcycle, boat, homeowners, pet, life insurance, farm, commercial insurance, annuities, mortgages, mutual funds, pensions, long-term savings plans and specialty health services. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

Nationwide, the Nationwide frame mark, and On Your Side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.