Michigan State University is set to receive an award Thursday evening for being a Michigan Breastfeeding-Friendly Workplace.
State is being recognized for their "unique contributions" to providing lactation accommodations for working mothers at over 60 spots located on campus and around the state. They join a growing number of businesses in the state demonstrating their commitment to employees who need to breastfeed. They are the first Michigan university to receive such an award.
A breastfeeding-friendly workplace is described as a place where employers proactively support breastfeeding employees by providing adequate time and private space to express breast milk.
Officials say that employers who provide these supports see a positive impact on their businesses' bottom line, including a 3-to-1 return on investment, reduced health care costs, and decreased employee absenteeism.
Companies with workplace lactation support also attract valued employees; experience lower turnover rates; and enjoy increased employee job satisfaction, morale, loyalty and productivity, according to Kaitlyn Moorhead-Hill, RD Workplace Project Manager Michigan Breastfeeding Network.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding until six months and the World Health Organization recommends continued breastfeeding until at least two years of age.
The award presentation will take place on November 30, 2017 at 5:30 p.m. in the Upper Lounge of the MSU Union. Families, and breastfeeding supporters are encouraged to join for pictures and celebration. Light refreshments will also be served.
