MEDIA CONTACT: Kristine M. McGrath
561-297-1168, kmcgrath@fau.edu

FAU's College of Business Honors Governor Jeb Bush with Business Leader of the Year Award

BOCA RATON, FL (September 23, 2005) - Florida Atlantic University's College of Business hosted the 2005 Business Leader of the Year annual award today. This year's program celebrated the accomplishments of Florida Governor Jeb Bush, a leader who has recognized the vital linkage between education and business excellence in Florida and beyond.
"Governor Bush epitomizes the effective leader," said Dr. J. Dennis Coates, interim dean of FAU's College of Business. "His vision of how to stimulate the resources of business and the talents of individuals has contributed to growth in the state's economy and well being of its citizens."

The Business Leader of the Year award celebrates the accomplishments of business leaders and their ongoing legacy in improving the overall environment of business. Governor Bush is being recognized for the fundamental changes he has made that have enabled corporate CEO's, entrepreneurs and small business owners alike to succeed.

"I am honored to receive this award from FAU and its College of Business," said Florida Governor Jeb Bush. "Florida is dedicated to ensuring our state's business climate is recognized as second-to-none. During this week especially - Florida's Industry Appreciation Week - we must give credit for our state's robust economy where credit is due: to the Sunshine State's steadfast business leaders, innovative entrepreneurs, and talented workforce. The state remains committed to sound policy with the unwavering goal of expanding and diversifying our state's economy."

Since 1991, FAU's College of Business has presented the Business Leader of the Year award program, honoring the work of outstanding contributors to the overall business climate of the southeast region of Florida and the state. Governor Bush joins other highly honored recipients of the award, including Ronald Assaf, Alexander Dreyfoos, Jim Moran, Wayne Huizenga, Carl DeSantis, Bud Paxson, Jerry Levin, Pat Moran and others.

Other program speakers included FAU President Frank T. Brogan, Dr. Richard Lerner, president of The Scripps Research Institute, and Dr. J. Dennis Coates.

Underwriters, benefactors and co-sponsors partnered with FAU's College of Business to assist in hosting the award program. Major underwriters include Comcast Cable, GL Homes, JM Family Enterprises, Tenet South Florida and The GEO Group. Benefactors include Huizenga Holdings, Maroone - An AutoNation Company, MAPEI and Woolbright Development. Carnival Cruise Lines, Codina Corporation, Franklin Templeton, Ryder System, Target, the Boca Raton Resort & Club and UBS Financial Services co-sponsored the event.

For further information regarding the event, contact Dr. Neuman F. Pollack at 561-297-1316 or npollack@fau.edu

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