We are delighted to announce the Winners of the TLC Lions Human Awards Americas 2025. The winners have been recognized for their commitment to human-centered leadership and for driving a more human working world for all. We hope you’ll join us in congratulating them and honoring the extraordinary work they’ve done to humanize the workplace.
Renowned for its people-centered vision – Mastercard is proudly named the Human Company of the Year. Guided by The Mastercard Way, the company empowers employees to own their careers, pursue growth, and contribute to a world where opportunity is open to all. Through initiatives like Discovery Days, innovation challenges, and a skills-focused approach, Mastercard fosters inclusion, collaboration, and continuous learning. Employees thrive in a culture that celebrates curiosity, embraces diverse perspectives, and supports well-being. With 91% of employees proud to work at Mastercard, the company’s commitment to decency, innovation, and human-centered leadership makes it a true model for organizations worldwide.
Jim Fitterling, Chief Executive Officer and Chair of Dow Inc., is a powerful example of human-centered leadership, earning recognition as the Human CEO of the Year. Since becoming CEO in 2018, Jim has championed equity, inclusion, and employee well-being at every level. One of only three openly LGBTQ+ CEOs in the Fortune 500, his decision to come out publicly in 2014 broke barriers in manufacturing and set a new standard for authenticity. By establishing Dow’s first Chief Inclusion Officer role and advocating globally for LGBTQ+ equality, he has strengthened a culture where employees feel valued, heard, and empowered. Jim’s boldness, empathy, and people-first leadership make him a true role model.
Tim McChristian’s tenure as CEO of Madison Square Boys & Girls Club reflects a commitment to transformation and purpose, earning him the Leadership Legacy Award. Over the past eight years, Tim has created safe, enriching spaces where hundreds of underserved New York City youth can thrive academically, socially, and physically. Drawing on his own experiences, he has guided a dedicated team to expand the Club’s impact, including the opening of the Pinkerton Clubhouse in Harlem and initiatives like financial literacy programs with the Wells Fargo Foundation. Tim’s empathy, vision, and unwavering commitment have left an enduring mark on his team, the children they serve, and the broader community.
Melissa Hagerman, Chief Human Resources Officer at Genworth & CareScout exemplifies people-centered leadership, earning her the HR Leader of the Year award. Drawing on personal experience caring for her aging parents, Melissa has championed holistic well-being, inclusion, and career growth for associates. She reimagined feedback loops, co-founded Pathfinders to turn insights into action, refreshed talent and performance management, and introduced on-site mental health support. Under her guidance, associates feel heard, supported, and empowered to thrive. Melissa’s empathy, resilience, and unwavering commitment to both people and purpose have strengthened organizational culture and positively impacted associates and customers alike.
The Global Learning Team at Schneider Electric has been recognized for its care-driven innovation, earning the Human Team of the Year Award. With extraordinary commitment and empathy, the team led the creation of the global e-learning program centered on the fundamentals of wellbeing and mental health, and rolled out in 16 languages to ensure accessibility for all employees. Designed around understanding, recognition, and action, the training transformed awareness into meaningful change, helping thousands feel supported and safe. By prioritizing inclusion, compassion, and human connection, the team embedded wellbeing into Schneider Electric’s culture – proving that when mental health is championed with heart, entire organizations can thrive.
David Lee’s purpose-driven leadership as Chief Sales Officer at SnapLogic has distinguished him as the recipient of the Human Leader of the Year Award. In a high-performance industry, David stands apart for leading with empathy, integrity, and courage. He has redefined success by embedding humanity into every facet of the business – from culture transformation and leadership development to performance and wellbeing. Through initiatives like the “One Team” vision, mindset training, and cultural performance goals, he’s built a psychologically safe environment where people thrive. David’s authenticity, compassion, and belief in shared growth have inspired teams to lead with heart and deliver extraordinary results together.
Leading with authenticity and compassion, Elizabeth Avila, Vice President of Anti-Bribery & Corruption at Deutsche Bank, has been honored with the Future Human Leader Award. Known for her positivity and purpose, Elizabeth makes a large organization feel more connected by uplifting and empowering those around her. A champion of DEI, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and philanthropy, she leads by example – bringing others with her to volunteer events and inspiring collective action. Through mentorship and advocacy, she helps colleagues grow, connect, and find their voice. Elizabeth’s empathy, courage, and genuine care have created a ripple effect across the bank, fostering a culture of belonging and human connection that defines future leadership.
Dana Marlowe, Executive Director of I Support The Girls, dedication to storytelling and advocacy has earned her the Human Storyteller of the Year Award. Through her personal journey, she has amplified voices that are often unheard, driving measurable global impact and inspiring change. As the founder of Accessibility Partners and I Support the Girls, Dana has empowered people with disabilities and provided over 37 million essential items to women and girls in need. Her work has galvanized thousands of partners, earned national recognition, and influenced legislative change. With compassion, courage, and unwavering purpose, Dana uses her voice to champion dignity, inclusion, and equity, proving how one story can spark profound transformation.
The 2025 TLC Lions Special Recognition Award goes to Lisa Buckingham, Chief People Officer at Vialto Partners.
Lisa embodies the essence of human leadership – courageous, authentic, compassionate, and deeply present. In every decision, she leads with heart, balancing business priorities with genuine care for people. Renowned for her warmth, energy, and integrity, she inspires those around her to bring their whole selves to work. A devoted mother, mentor, and role model, Lisa’s impact reaches far beyond her organization, championing empathy, inclusion, and purpose.
Lisa Buckingham stands as a shining example of the leaders we need today and the kind we aspire to be tomorrow.