SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (June 10, 2019) – Avera has been named to the inaugural Forbes list of America’s Best-in-State Employers 2019. Avera is ranked No. 1 in South Dakota and in the Top 20 in Minnesota.

Based on an independent survey, researchers made the list from a vast sample of more than 80,000 U.S. employees working for companies employing at least 500 people in their U.S. operations.

“To be given this distinction certainly makes us proud, yet humbled. The recognition is even more special coming from our employees – especially since it is based on what they actually say about their workplace,” said Kim Jensen, Chief Human Resources Officer. “Our leaders strive to be make Avera an employer of choice through the training, daily management and respectful interactions they have with our most important resources, our employees. That’s the Avera difference, and it shows.”

Nationwide, employees were asked to rate their willingness to recommend their own employers to friends and family; participants were also prompted to evaluate other employers in their respective industries that stood out either positively or negatively.

“As an employer, Avera looks to its employees to make a positive impact in the lives and health of people and communities,” Jensen said. “Each employee plays a powerful role in impacting local health care.”

For a complete list of the businesses named, visit Forbes.com/best-employers-by-state.