INDIANAPOLIS (July 11, 2006) ? Nine Hoosier education, business and community leaders from across the state were recognized today for their accomplishments at the Indiana Black Expo, Inc. 36th Annual Summer Celebration (IBE) Governor?s Reception.

?The success these individuals have achieved should be an example for us all,? said Governor Mitch Daniels. ?These leaders truly represent the backbone of Indiana -- Hoosiers who see that investing in their community and in their state will pay dividends for years to come.?

Award recipients were selected by the governor in collaboration with the Minority and Women?s Enterprises Division of the Indiana Department of Administration. Lieutenant Governor Becky Skillman and IBE Chief Executive Officer and President Joyce Rogers presented the awards at a ceremony at the State House.

Seven individuals received the Governor?s Award for Achievement for excellence and service in the fields of education, business, or technology. Two individuals received specialized awards for leadership and community service.

Governor?s Award for Achievement in Education recipients:
? Irene Saucer (Evansville), retired teacher, volunteer tutor with the Evansville Retired Teacher Association
? William Saucer (Evansville), retired teacher, volunteer tutor with the Evansville Retired Teacher Association

Governor?s Award for Achievement in Business and Entrepreneurship recipients:
? Angela Biddings (Gary), founder of Oldies But Goodies Adult Day Care
? Gary Davis (Indianapolis), founder and president of Davis & Associates
? Douglas Cesar Vaughn (Kokomo), founder of Rite Quality Office Supplies, Inc., founder and president of the Haitian Environment Support Program
? Darla Williams (Indianapolis), private practice attorney and co-bond counsel for Indiana Finance Authority on the Indiana Stadium bonds

Governor?s Award for Achievement in Technology recipient:
? Harold J. Foster (Gary), founder of TUGTEL Communications, Inc.

Sam Jones Trailblazer Award recipient:
? Dr. Rae Pearson (Fort Wayne), president of Alpha Rae Personnel, Inc. and Alpha Rae Training Center, Inc.

Reverend Charles R. Williams Community Service Award recipient:
? Cherrie White (Gary), community volunteer, member of the National Civil Rights Hall of Fame.

Additional media contact: Alpha Garrett, Indiana Black Expo, Inc., 317/363-0746, agarrett@indianablackexpo.com