Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska (BCBSNE) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessica “Jay” Warren-Teamer as director of diversity and inclusion.

Warren-Teamer has more than 10 years of experience in community outreach. In her new role at BCBSNE, she will direct and develop the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives and programs.

“We are passionate about creating an environment where all employees feel like they belong and their voices are heard,” BCBSNE President and CEO Steve Grandfield said. “As a Nebraska-based company, it is our responsibility to advocate for lasting change in our communities. Creating this new diversity and inclusion position is a step in the right direction. I am confident that Jay and the experience she brings to the table will make our initiatives even stronger.”

Warren-Teamer’s recent work experiences include serving as the community affairs coordinator at Mutual of Omaha and the director of community investment, workforce readiness, at United Way of the Midlands.

Warren-Teamer is a cofounder of I Be Black Girl Omaha, where she serves as the Gives lead. In addition, she is active in the community and currently serves on the University of Nebraska at Lincoln’s Chancellor’s Alumni Advisory Committee.

BCBSNE’s current diversity and inclusion initiatives include its Diversity and Inclusion Group (DIG), which plays a key role in fostering inclusion within the company. It consists of six employee resource groups:

  • Young Professionals (YP) Connect, supporting YPs and their advocates
  • Fearlessly You @ Blue, supporting LGBTQ+ employees
  • Military Families United Together, supporting veterans and military families
  • Building Leaders Like US for Excellence (BLUE), supporting African American employees
  • Latinos Empowered to Achieve Their Potential (LEAP), supporting Latino employees
  • Possibilities, supporting disabled/abled employees

BCBSNE’s DIG has existed for more than 20 years. Over the last few years, grassroot efforts led by employees have expanded the program. Currently, more than 250 employees participate in one or more employee resource groups.

“It’s been amazing to watch employees take ownership of the DIG and grow our efforts to foster inclusivity and diversity,” said Malorie Maddox, chief marketing, communications and strategy officer and the executive sponsor of the DIG. “I look forward to seeing how we can work together to continue to grow.”