The essential link between publishers, librarians and researchers.

 
Recent

Independent Publishing Awards: Sage wins Alison Morrison DEI award

Independent Publishing Award
Shutterstock.com/Lensw0rId

Sage has been named the winner of the Alison Morrison Diversity, Equity and Inclusion award at the recent Independent Publishing Awards. These awards celebrate the efforts of organisations to foster a more inclusive and diverse publishing industry. Consequently, the recognition covers both the diversity of a publisher’s workforce and the inclusivity of its published output.

The judging panel highlighted the long-term commitment Sage has shown to social justice. This mission has been a core part of the company throughout its 60 years of independence. Specifically, the judges pointed to the publisher’s work in improving representation among its staff and its global pool of authors. Furthermore, they noted the sophisticated use of data to measure and inform DEI strategies.

Independent Publishing Awards: Embedding inclusion into the corporate culture

The judges were particularly impressed by how deeply these values are embedded within the organisation. They remarked that DEI is integral to everything that Sage is and does. In addition, the panel noted that the company listens and acts with deep thought regarding diversity in all its aspects. Moreover, they praised the publisher for constantly seeking new ways to improve its impact on the community.

This award is a significant milestone for the independent publishing sector in the UK and Ireland. It proves that independent academic publishers can lead the way in social change. By prioritising representation, Sage provides a blueprint for how information professionals and publishers can collaborate to create a more equitable landscape.

A legacy of social justice and independence

Kiren Shoman, the Executive Vice President of Editorial and Global Executive Lead of DEI at Sage, accepted the award. She reflected on the unique history of the company. Shoman noted that a 24-year-old woman, Sara Miller McCune, founded Sage six decades ago. McCune started the business with a clear passion for social justice.

Shoman expressed how much the recognition from the Independent Publishing Awards would mean to the founder. Nevertheless, she emphasised that the work of inclusion involves every member of the team. According to Shoman, the success of these initiatives relies on colleagues turning their personal commitments into tangible actions.

Supporting the publishing industry during difficult times

The award comes at a time of significant change for the scholarly community. Shoman noted that the publishing industry must work together to raise everyone up, especially during challenging economic or social periods. This collaborative spirit is essential for librarians, researchers, and academic authors who rely on diverse perspectives.

The Independent Publishing Awards are hosted annually by the Independent Publishers Guild (IPG). The event celebrates the diverse achievements of the independent sector. For the scholarly community, these awards highlight the importance of independent voices in the dissemination of research.

Data-driven strategies for future growth

A key factor in the success of Sage has been its willingness to use data to track progress. In the world of information science, data is vital for accountability. By using metrics to measure workforce diversity and author representation, the publisher ensures that its DEI goals are more than just slogans.

As a result, this evidence-based approach is likely to interest librarians and information professionals. These stakeholders increasingly look for transparency from the publishers they support. As the industry moves forward, the integration of DEI into the core business strategy will remain a vital topic for all Research Information readers.

Congratulations to all of the winners:

  • Publiship Independent Publisher of the Year: Magic Cat Publishing
  • PBShop Trade Publisher of the Year: Joffe Books
  • Clays Children’s Publisher of the Year: Magic Cat Publishing
  • Clarivate Academic, Educational and Professional Publisher of the Year: Edward Elgar Publishing
  • IPG Specialist Consumer Publisher of the Year: Search Press
  • The Bookseller Newcomer Award: Colour Your Streets
  • The London Book Fair International Award: Thames & Hudson
  • IPG Impact Award: Quarto
  • World of Books Sustainability Award: Thames & Hudson
  • Zebralution Audio Award: Bonnier Books / Nosy Crow (joint)
  • PLS AI Award: Burleigh Dodds Science Publishing
  • Virtusales Metadata Award: Bloomsbury Publishing
  • The Ola Gotkowska Young Independent Publisher Award: Erin Murgatroyd, Nosy Crow
  • IPG Services to Independent Publishers Award: Suzanne Collier
Back to top