November 17, 2023
We are proud to share that three influential organizations recently honored Jennifer Scanlon, president and CEO of UL Solutions, for her extraordinary leadership and global impact, advocacy for education and dedication to diversity and inclusion efforts. One of the driving principles behind UL Solutions' mission of working for a safer world is to be a positive example of corporate citizenship and social responsibility. As recognized by these organizations, Scanlon leads by example in global business and, notably, as a tireless advocate for advancing education and diversity in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).
Scanlon was named a Global Leadership Award honoree by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs, the UPWARD Woman of the Year and a Business Leader of the Year by Chicago’s Junior Achievement chapter.
Chicago Council on Global Affairs
The Chicago Council on Global Affairs honored Scanlon with a Global Leadership Award for her exemplary leadership and commitment to creating a more open and promising world for all. She was celebrated alongside Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, who also received the honor from the nonpartisan, nonprofit group dedicated to increasing knowledge and engagement in global affairs. Scanlon’s devotion to working for a safer world, her fierce advocacy for STEM education and her work to increase diversity in STEM were among the reasons she was chosen for this honor.
Scanlon, who is on the Council’s board, received the award at the Global Leadership Awards Dinner in Chicago. She spoke of the positive influence of other award winners and council members and importance of the group’s work to establish ways to combat the dangers the world faces today.
“As I look around this room at so many wonderful friends and colleagues, I see talent, dedication and generosity. Because of you all, I have no doubt that the best is yet to come,” Scanlon said.
UPWARD Woman of the Year
UPWARD, a global networking organization dedicated to the advancement of executive women and supporting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, named Scanlon UPWARD’s Woman of the Year. Lisa Lambert, CEO and founder of the organization, shared that Scanlon was chosen thanks to her professional accomplishments and commitment to advancing women leaders worldwide.
Scanlon was honored at a fireside chat with Lambert, who is also on the UL Solutions Board of Directors, at the UPWARD 10-Year Anniversary Gala in San Jose, Calif. She discussed the importance of UL Solutions’ mission and work and how her love of STEM continues to motivate her.
“Science aims to build knowledge, which means it is open to questions and revisions as we come up with new ideas and discover new evidence,” Scanlon said.
Junior Achievement
Junior Achievement (JA) of Chicago chose Scanlon as one of three Business Leaders of the Year for 2023. As a global organization focusing primarily on young adults, JA chooses honorees who are outstanding role models for the students participating in economic education programs. They are selected for their long-standing and contemporary accomplishments and active community service, among other achievements.
Thanking JA of Chicago at the award ceremony, Scanlon reflected on how special this honor was to her as the daughter of two teachers who dedicated their lives to inspiring students and helping them reach their “boundless futures.” She encouraged the students to to be prepared, find their purpose or passion, and pause to celebrate their successes, big or small, as they continue their learning journeys.
“Look for people and eventually companies who share your passion. It really is more satisfying when you’re mission-driven and contributing to something larger that impacts the world.”