As Centene recognizes Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, it shines the spotlight on employees’ commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) where they live, work and serve.

Approximately 8% of Centene employees identify as Asian American or Pacific Islander. The company honors the diverse cultures represented in the Asian American or Pacific Islander community, including heritages from 48 countries in Asia and more than 20 Pacific Islands.

Explore employee perspectives on AAPI Heritage Month and their efforts to advance inclusion in the workplace and communities they serve.
 

Danny Ly, Vice President, Federal Affairs

“This month is an opportunity to reflect, recognize and honor the various contributions Asian Americans have made to American history,” said Danny Ly, Vice President, Federal Affairs. “We are a community that is diverse and continues to grow.” 

“As hate crimes increase, especially post pandemic, it is important for us to learn from each other,” said Ed Wang, Manager, Sales Medicare, Wellcare. “I want my colleagues to know more about Asian cultures and traditions from different Asian countries.”

“This month allows me to revisit my Filipino ancestry and honor my family who worked hard to come to America,” said Julie Mertzlufft, Manager, Utilization Management, Show Me Healthy Kids, Home State Health. “I have established my roots as a Filipino-American and have incorporated many family traditions.”

Davy Diongson, Director, Quality Stars Program, Fidelis Care

“Asia is a vast continent and there is much diversity within the AAPI community. Each country and different regions have their own culture and languages,” said Davy Diongson, Director, Quality Stars Program, Fidelis Care. “This month is a time to celebrate one’s heritage and to learn about other cultures.”

Our employees also describe how they advance inclusion by building trusted partnerships at work and within their communities.

“In External Relations, we work across a diverse spectrum of stakeholders to gather thoughts to develop and execute a strategy,” said Danny. “For a successful outcome, it is necessary to consider all thoughts put on the table, and to be conscious about truly engaging all team members for unique perspectives. The communities we serve are not alike and their needs are different. Being inclusive of everyone’s ideas helps us better serve our diverse membership.”  

Ed Wang, Manager, Sales Medicare, Wellcare

“I manage a team of Medicare Sales Advisors who work in Asian communities,” said Ed. “It is important to learn, embrace and respect others’ experiences and realities and to manage unconscious bias. I also acknowledge a variety of religious and cultural holidays recognized by my employees. I am mindful when scheduling meetings and provide flexibility during these holidays.”

“I am a member of Fidelis Care’s DEI Council and we encourage team members to join Centene’s Employee Inclusion Groups,” said Davy. “I joined the Cultural Heritage and Community Engagement Subcommittee, and its key objectives are to plan, coordinate and develop culturally relevant communications, education, activities and event for our teams.”

Julie Mertzlufft, Manager, Utilization Management, Show Me Healthy Kids, Home State Health

“I demonstrate inclusiveness in my decision-making and focus on an inclusive work environment by encouraging my team to be diverse in thought,” said Julie. “As a leader, it is important to highlight agreement and joint decision making to drive impact and outcomes.”