Every year, we ask our 70,000+ associates to consider nominating an exceptional colleague who is making a lasting impact on those around them, both at work and outside of work.

The Jeffrey Sherman Life-Changers Award program launched in 2016 and is named in honor of former BD EVP and General Counsel, Jeffrey Sherman, who passed away following a brave 10-month battle with pancreatic cancer.

The annual Life-Changers awards are one of our favorite traditions at BD – because these prestigious awards honor “the best of the best” within our organization. This year, we received 70 nominations from our employees around the world and awarded four winners.

Meet 2021 Jeffrey Sherman Life-Changers Award winner, Atul Gakhar, who works as Plant Operations Leader in Bawal, India.

In Bawal where Atul works, he is known to greet his fellow 300 colleagues – by name – everyday. Those who work with Atul describe him as authentic, responsible, accountable and always looking for opportunities to help his team grow.

Atul is a strong advocate for gender equality – a commitment which is particularly noteworthy given that women currently account for only 19.9% of the total labor force in India. During the 20+ year history of our plant in Bawal, India, all roles on the plant floor were historically filled by men. Atul added 22 women to his team and continues to offer women positions where there are opportunities to fill open roles.

Atul’s bold and empowering steps to recruit and retain women in the workforce is inspiring to his team because he is a leader in cultural progress.