Sanderson Farms on Thursday announced that it was honored by the Women’s Forum of New York at its fifth Breakfast of Corporate Champions.

The Forum, an exclusive global leadership network, hosts a biennial event to recognize companies that are actively advancing women on corporate boards. To qualify for invitation, companies must have measurably exceeded the national average of board seats held by women. Sanderson Farms has retained 35 percent female board members, double the national average.

“We are delighted to salute companies and leaders by accelerating the advancement of women onto corporate boards and reaping the rewards,” said Carolyn Carter, President of Women’s Forum of New York. “By shining a light on their successes, we hope to inspire others and help achieve gender balance in the boardroom.”

The company has been recognized by 2020 Women on Boards each year since 2011, when the national campaign first began tracking board diversity.

“Our female leadership has played a crucial role in our accomplishments as a company, and we couldn’t be prouder of their contributions,” said Joe F. Sanderson, President and CEO of Sanderson Farms. “We are grateful to the Women’s Forum of New York for recognizing our company’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.”