U.S. Commerce Secretary Don Evans Spotlights
Corporate Citizenship
SBC Communications, Timberland and Wal-Mart recognized for their commitment to improving local communities

Washington, DC - U.S. Commerce Secretary Don Evans today spotlighted outstanding corporate citizenship, presenting the Ron Brown Award for Corporate Leadership to SBC Communications, Timberland and Wal-Mart. The three companies honored today are engaged in practices encouraged by President Bush in his domestic policy agenda: expanding small business procurement opportunities and volunteerism.

"This year's recipients of the Ron Brown Award for Corporate Leadership are answering the highest calling in life: serving others. They looked beyond their profit margins and seized the opportunity to give back," said Evans.

SBC Communications was recognized for its Supplier Diversity Program. In 2001, SBC spent $2.8 billion purchasing products or services from women-, minority-, and disabled veteran-owned small businesses. In 1999, SBC challenged its fellow telecommunications companies to improve their supplier diversity and because of that challenge, 70 telecommunications companies have pledged to do so. Accepting the award for SBC Communications was former Clinton Administration Commerce Secretary Bill Daley, who now serves as president for SBC Communications.

Timberland was honored for its "Path of Service" program. Timberland employees are allowed 40 hours of paid time per year to participate in community service activities. "Path of Service" also established a sabbatical for volunteers, awarding Timberland employees a three- to six-month sabbatical to devote themselves full-time to a non-profit organization, then return to their jobs. Sidney Swartz, chairman of Timberland, accepted the award on behalf of Timberland.

Wal-Mart was honored for its "Good Works" Community Involvement Program. Under the motto, "think globally, give back locally," Wal-Mart employees are encouraged to support and participate in local community programs that improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. Since its establishment in 1979, the "Good Works" program has raised and contributed over $1 billion for local and national charities. Thomas Grimm, president and CEO of Sam's Clubs, represented Wal-Mart at today's event.

The Ron Brown Awards for Corporate Leadership were created in May 1997 as a legacy to former Commerce Secretary Ron Brown. The award seeks to recognize and encourage exemplary corporate practices in employee and community relations.