I shared this message with all 10,000 associates at Magellan yesterday. As I said in my message, times like these require all of us not to be silent, but instead to stand tall and make it very clear that we are committed to an environment where all people can progress personally and professionally, and work in a positive, uplifting workplace. Given the current state of events in our country, and particularly the divisive events of this week, I felt it important to reaffirm the values we hold dear within Magellan.

“Leading humanity to healthy, vibrant lives” is what guides our decision making and inspires us to accomplish meaningful, positive change in the lives of those we serve. This can only be done if we respect and value each other, and every person we serve, without condition or qualification.

For the many years I have been associated with Magellan, I have been impressed by the integrity and commitment of Magellan team members to create a culture of caring. I have seen great respect for people of all races, religions, gender and sexual orientation, to name only a few of the things that make us different. There is no doubt that the diversity of our people allows us to better understand and execute our vision of making a powerful impact on the world around us.

I want to reaffirm in a direct and simple way that we will never diverge from valuing differences, and creating a culture in which we can learn from each other and grow as individuals, teams, and a company.

Times like these require all of us not to be silent, but instead to stand tall and make it very clear that we are committed to an environment where all people can progress personally and professionally, and work in a positive, uplifting workplace. Our differences are to be celebrated; they are absolutely key in helping us in “leading humanity to healthy, vibrant lives.”

Thank you for the great work you do. I am proud to be associated with you.

There is often confusion about Memorial Day relative to Veterans Day, which was first observed in 1926, to recognize and appreciate all veterans who have served our country- particularly those who are still with us. Memorial Day, which began in 1868, is focused on honoring those individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice preserving our country and the freedom for which it stands.

The first large observance for Memorial Day was held in 1866 at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. Various Washington officials, including Gen. and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, presided over the ceremony. After speeches, children from the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Orphan Home made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers and singing hymns.

More than one million American servicemembers have died in wars since the first colonial soldiers took up arms in 1775. All Americans are direct beneficiaries of these sacrifices. Some specific actions you might take on this special day might include:

• Visiting memorials
• Visiting one of the 135 veterans’ cemeteries across the nation that protect the remains of our country’s fallen
• Flying the U.S. flag at half-staff until noon
• Volunteer or donate to non-profits serving survivors
• Reading to children about the meaning of the holiday. Some books that are appropriate for children four to eight include:
  • Memorial Day by Mir Tamim Ansary
  • Memorial Day Surprise by Theresa Martin Golding
  • The Wall by Eve Bunting

While this weekend is often considered the unofficial kickoff to summer, it’s important not to forget its true meaning and sentiment. We must never forget what these heroes have done and what their loved ones have lost.

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Magellan Federal has a long legacy of service to military survivors which dates back 1879. We are honored to be a leader in supporting military survivors, providing surviving military families with information and compassionate case management that helps them navigate a very complex set of issues and benefits.