ATLANTA, April 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Cox Communications was recognized as one of the DiversityInc Top 50 Companies for Diversity for the eighth time at a reception last night. For the last seven years, Cox has ranked in the top 25, with a ranking of No. 22 this year, up from No. 25 in 2012.

Cox was further heralded for its diversity leadership with a No. 4 ranking in the DiversityInc Top 10 Companies for Blacks.

"Diversity and inclusion are core values that are woven into every aspect of Cox's culture and business operations," said Pat Esser, Cox Communications president, who also leads the company's Corporate Diversity and Inclusion Council. "These values are fundamental to our company being relevant, sustainable and having a highly engaged workforce."

Cox's inclusion on these prestigious lists can be attributed to the comprehensive approach it takes to diversity, which includes ensuring the company is not only inclusive in hiring and retaining employees, but also in its supplier relationships, community outreach and the products and services it offers.

"American companies are increasingly conscious of the importance of diversity and we continue to note a positive correlation between achievement in diversity and overall company performance," said Luke Visconti, CEO of DiversityInc. "Cox's comprehensive approach to diversity and commitment from senior leadership continues to earn them recognition alongside some of the country's most respected companies."

Both the 2013 and the 2012 DiversityInc Top 50 lists outperformed the S&P 500 on a one-, three- and five-year basis.

DiversityInc 2013 survey results show that Top 50 companies have:

• 76% more Blacks, Latinos and Asians on their boards of directors than the Fortune 500
• 54% more women on their boards of directors than the Fortune 500
• 43% more women in the top level (CEO and direct reports) than the Fortune 500
• 16.6% more Blacks, Latinos and Asians in the top level (CEO and direct reports) than the Fortune 500
• 14 times more CEOs who are Black, Latino or Asian than the Fortune 500 (16% of Top 50 CEOs are Black, Latino or Asian vs. 1.2% for the Fortune 500)

In addition, DiversityInc notes that Top 50 companies have 51% more employees in resource groups than they did five years ago and donated 53% more to multicultural charities than they did five years ago.

About Cox Communications:

Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet and telephone services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable TV company, Cox serves approximately 6 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and new media advertising.

Cox is known for its pioneering efforts in cable telephone and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For seven years, Cox has been recognized as the top operator for women by Women in Cable Telecommunications; Cox has ranked among DiversityInc's Top 50 Companies for Diversity eight times, including the last seven years. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at www.cox.com/espanol y www.coxmedia.com.

SOURCE Cox Communications