New England Aquarium Makes Public Commitment to Closing Wage Gaps by Joining Boston Women’s Workforce Council

BOSTON (July 8, 2024) – In an effort to continue its commitment to ensuring the New England Aquarium is a place for all to work and grow in their career, the institution is now a signer of the 100% Talent Compact with the Boston Women’s Workforce Council (BWWC). With this action, the Aquarium’s leadership team is actively and publicly committing resources to help close gender and racial wage gaps among Greater Boston employers. 

“We value diversity and inclusion in our community and our institution,” says Vikki N. Spruill, President and CEO of the New England Aquarium. “We are thrilled to be taking this next step to truly emphasize the efforts that go into hiring and advancement at the Aquarium, as well as ensuring our organization is paying all employees equitably.” 

The BWWC leads a unique public-private partnership between the Mayor of Boston, Mayor Wu, and Greater Boston employers dedicated to eliminating the gender and racial wage gaps. The BWWC recruits employers to sign the 100% Talent Compact, a pledge to examine their policies, work toward fixing pay and advancement inequities they might find, and confidentially share their payroll data on race and gender with the BWWC in order to provide a community snapshot on progress. It is a first-in-the-nation approach to removing the visible and invisible barriers to advancement. 

 The Aquarium is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. In a field like marine science and conservation that has historically lacked diversity, the organization has continuously shed light on and hosted programs with scientists from all backgrounds. Additionally, the Aquarium’s staff-led DEI Advisory Council assists and advises the Executive Leadership Team to encourage inclusivity and drive meaningful progress within the institution.   

“We are honored to have this important institution and symbol of the Greater Boston community join us in our efforts,” said Kim Borman, Executive Director of the BWWC. “Spruill and the Aquarium are the prime example of an organization that is continuously working to bring equitable access and representation in all facets of their work.  

Over 200 Boston-area employers have signed the compact. They represent a wide swath of organizations, ranging in size and industry. These employers are all working toward the common goal of making Boston the best place for working women and people of color.  

MEDIA CONTACT: Hannah Boutiette – (413) 717-7759; hannah@teakmedia.com