Extraordinary Women Recognized by ATHENA Foundation

Women's Organization also Honors GM for Longtime Support

CHICAGO April 27, 2005; Kay Koplovitz broke new ground for women in television as founder of USA Networks. Sally Armstrong, a human rights activist, gave a voice to women in war-torn countries through her documentaries. And, General Motors Corp. has been there to recognize and support women like Koplovitz and Armstrong for 20 years.

That’s why the ATHENA Foundation will recognize Koplovitz, Armstrong and GM during the organization’s annual awards gala in Chicago on Thursday. Since 1982, ATHENA Foundation has recognized extraordinary people who have made a difference in the lives of others, or inspired women to reach and achieve their goals and dreams.

“We’re very proud to support an organization that is dedicated to advancing women in leadership roles,’’ said Gary Cowger, GM group vice president of Global Manufacturing and Labor. “The bottom line is, women help determine how successful General Motors will be…whether they are making decisions in our boardroom, or visiting one of our showrooms.” Cowger will accept the recognition award on behalf of GM at the program at the Downtown Chicago Marriott.

GM has partnered with the ATHENA foundation since 1985 as the national underwriter and sponsor of the international conference. Over 500 GM dealers have participated in the ATHENA Awards program, partnering with their local chambers of commerce and recognizing nearly 5,000 women for their leadership and professional excellence.

“The commitment and support from GM, at both the dealer and corporate level, has been outstanding. It has allowed us to carry on our very important work of empowering women in their leadership journeys,” said Dorothy Huisman, Executive Director of the ATHENA Foundation.

Armstrong and Koplovitz will be the two women this year honored for their accomplishments. In addition to making documentaries about women in Bosnia , Somalia and Afghanistan , Armstrong is an award-winning author and editor of “Chatelaine” magazine. Koplovitz is the first woman network president in television history and author of Bold Women, Big Ideas.