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Simmons College Graduate Ann Fudge Honored As "Corporate Trailblazer" by National Business Publication

BOSTON (February 25, 2008) — Simmons College Alumna Ann Fudge has been named a "corporate trailblazer" by Black Enterprise, the nation's premier business, investing, and wealth-building resource for African Americans.

Fudge and three other legendary African American women were recently honored at the 2008 Women of Power Summit Legacy Awards Dinner in Palms Spring, CA. Also recognized were acclaimed actress and activist Ruby Dee, best-selling poet Nikki Giovanni, and civil rights legend Dorothy Height.

Fudge, a 1971 Simmons College graduate, is former chair & CEO of Young & Rubicam Brands and the first black woman to lead a multimillion-dollar advertising agency. Her rise through the ranks of corporate America established her as one of the most influential decision-making women in American business.

The Women of Power Summit Legacy Awards recognize African American women whose achievements, influence, and power have helped to open doors of opportunity and success for women of color.

"We're honored to celebrate this year's award winners, and are confident their accomplishments will continue to set the standard of success for women leaders," said Barbara Graves, Black Enterprise senior vice president and board member.

The award ceremony kicked off the third annual Women of Power Summit, a four-day executive leadership conference attended by more than 700 professional women of color.

Addressing the summit attendees, Fudge said, "I look at all of you beautiful women and I think five, 10 years ago, we wouldn't have assembled a group like you in corporate America. I'm so proud of your progress, because you're why I stayed. You're why I stuck it out. I want to thank you for just being here and doing what you're doing."