Labcorp signs statement of support for guard and reserve members

BURLINGTON, N.C., May 26, 2022 — North Carolina Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a United States Department of Defense program, announced today that Labcorp, a global life sciences company, signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve at its corporate headquarters in Burlington, N.C. Representatives of Labcorp’s Veteran Employee Resource Group (VERG) and others attended this event in person and virtually.

The Statement of Support confirms Labcorp joins other employers in pledging:

• We fully recognize, honor and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).
• We will provide our managers and supervisors with the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
• We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.
• We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families, in peace, in crises and in war.

“Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units,” said State Chair Iwan Clontz. “I am asking all N.C  employers to take a look at their current human resources policies to incorporate policies supportive of Guard and Reserve employees.”  

Many North Carolina employers provide support above and beyond their legal requirements by law by offering pay-differential to offset the loss of wages, and extension of health care benefits, which complement coverage provided by the military, when their employees mobilize.”

When asked about the criteria, Clontz said, “By meeting the Statement of Support criteria, Labcorp pledges to stand proudly with its Guard and Reserve employees, who continue to answer their nation’s call to support our communities at home and critical missions throughout the world. Their sacrifices are essential to the strength of our nation.”

“Labcorp is committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization,” said Dr. Deborah Sesok-Pizzini, chief medical officer of Labcorp Diagnostics. “We believe different experiences, including those with military backgrounds, bring unique capabilities, which help us advance our mission to improve health and improve lives. We are honored to sign this employer Statement of Support and look forward to building our relationship with ESGR for years to come.” 

Dr. Sesok-Pizzini’s husband served in the United States Air Force Reserves, and she remains active in veteran and military support groups. 

Labcorp currently employs more than 1,300 military veterans and active reserve members. 

“Labcorp joins a cadre of Fortune 500 companies, state and federal agencies and thousands of America’s employers in demonstrating support for our armed forces,” added Clontz. “By signing the Statement of Support, Labcorp is sending a clear message to its employees that while they are serving their country, they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs.” 

ESGR is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers.

For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call 1-800-336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil. 

ESGR Contact

Tony Clark, 704-904-5783