Lisa Toppin receives Walker's Legacy Power Award

LPL Financial’s Chief Diversity Officer Receives Walker’s Legacy Power Award

November 13, 2018

LPL Financial Chief Diversity Officer Lisa Toppin is a 2018 recipient of the Charlotte Power 15 Award, which recognizes notable community and business leaders making an impact in the Charlotte area. The award is presented by Walker’s Legacy, a global platform for professional and entrepreneurial multicultural woman, in partnership with the Minority Business Development Agency and AARP. The Power 15 Award recognizes leaders in nine other cities across the nation.

“At LPL, having a diverse and inclusive work environment is fundamental to who we are as a company and what we stand for,” Toppin said. “It’s about people feeling included and connected, and being able to move forward. This award is validation that we’re making a difference with our employees and our community and that others see the value of facilitating a culture of inclusion.”

Toppin joined LPL in 2015, and she has played an integral role cementing the firm’s ability to attract and retain the best talent, knowing that a focus on talent and engagement enables the firm to deliver the best service and support to its clients. She nurtures a culture of diversity and inclusion through programs and initiatives that drive engagement and is a trusted mentor and personal coach to many women at LPL.

Under Toppin’s guidance, LPL created a Diversity Council made up of leaders who are committed to effecting change. LPL also has eight Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), which are employee communities that work together for personal and professional development and on behalf of business initiatives. Additionally, Toppin is the host of podcast series to help employees better understand the different types of diversity—from hearing loss to socio-economic barriers—that we can’t necessarily see. “These initiatives and events communicate to our colleagues that this is a place where inclusion exists. By talking about it, it makes it safe for employees to bring their whole selves to work each day,” Toppin said.

“We are honored to recognize Lisa Toppin with this year’s 2018 Power 15 Award,” said Natalie Madeira Cofield, founder and CEO, Walker’s Legacy. “We recognize the imperative role multicultural women in business have on our society and economy alike, and are excited to celebrate her work and the transformative impact she has in the greater Charlotte area.”