(Indianapolis, Ind. - Oct. 14, 2013)  Duke Realty Corporation (Duke Realty), a leading nationwide REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) specializing in the ownership, management and development of bulk industrial facilities, medical office properties and suburban office buildings, has received a 2013 Gold Award of Excellence for its diversity and inclusion program. The award was bestowed by the Brandon Hall Group, an organization that annually recognizes companies for the successful development and implementation of programs that have produced measurable results in learning, talent management and sales and marketing.

"The Gold Award from the Brandon Hall group is extremely gratifying because it validates the quality and effectiveness of Duke Realty's diversity and inclusion program," said Denny Oklak, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Duke Realty. "Our progress and accomplishments in this important initiative are a direct result of the concentrated efforts of our entire team. I would like to personally thank every Duke Realty associate, our management team and our board of directors for their involvement and support of our program." 

Duke Realty, which started its diversity and inclusion program more than 10 years ago, has integrated diversity and inclusion strategies into all company practices, directing its efforts toward customers, suppliers, associates and the communities in which it operates. The program is sponsored by senior management, administered by a council composed of associates from around the country and diversity action plan committees in each of its markets, and is practiced by all associates. The initiative has resulted in measurable benefits including a diverse associate base, new business, increased spend with diverse suppliers and recognition by external groups.

Another Duke Realty program, L.E.A.D. (Leadership at Duke Realty), earned a Bronze Award of Excellence from the Brandon Hall group. L.E.A.D. is a leadership development program designed to provide emerging leaders of the company with advanced skills training and the opportunity to innovate and develop creative solutions for the company and its customers. 

"We are extremely proud to honor Duke Realty and all of our 2013 award-winning organizations for their remarkable achievements," said Mike Cooke, Chief Executive Officer of Brandon Hall Group, Inc. "This elite group of organizations excelled in developing measurable, sustainable programs that produced outstanding business results."

Entries submitted for Brandon Hall Group's Excellence awards were evaluated by a panel of veteran, independent senior industry experts and Brandon Hall analysts and leaders based on the program's response to a need, design, functionality, innovation and overall measurable benefits.

About Duke Realty     

Duke Realty owns and operates approximately 148 million rentable square feet of industrial and office, including medical office, space in 18 major U.S. cities. Duke Realty is publicly traded on the NYSE under the symbol DRE and is listed on the S&P MidCap 400 Index.www.dukerealty.com.

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