Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development

TOMMY G. THOMPSON Governor State of Wisconsin

For Immediate Release: June 24, 1999
Contact: Darrin Schmitz (608) 266-9806
 

GOV BRINGS GLASS CEILING COMMISSION TO DOUGLAS COUNTY

MADISON -- Gov. Tommy G. Thompson today commended 26 Northern Wisconsin businesses and organizations for participating in the Governor's Glass Ceiling Commission CEO Breakfast held this morning at the Northern Lights Restaurant in Superior.

Gov. Thompson said the breakfast will help northern Wisconsin businesses succeed in the next millennium by discussing strategies for promoting and hiring more women and minorities.  Wisconsin became the first state to establish a Glass Ceiling Commission in July 1994, when Gov. Thompson named the 24 member commission to focus public attention on the issue.

"For Wisconsin's economy to thrive in the 21^st century, employers need to seek out the most talented individuals that can best serve their needs - regardless of race or gender," Gov. Thompson said.  "I am confident that the CEO Breakfast initiative will meet Wisconsin's need to move forward to adapt to the economic challenges of the future''

CEO Breakfasts are being held around the state to further the Glass Ceiling Commission's effort to raise awareness of the "glass ceiling;" the barrier that limits women and minorities from achieving top executive posts.

The following areas businesses and organizations participated in this morning's CEO breakfast:

Since Gov. Thompson was elected the number of women in senior executive state government positions has increased 192 percent, and the number of African .American department heads, directors. division chiefs and superintendents increased by 33 percent.

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