The Michigan Women's Commission and Governor John Engler are pleased to announce the First Annual Governor's Unsung Heroine Awards. The Awards are designed to honor the accomplishments and contributions of women in communities across Michigan who often go unrecognized in the areas of civil rights, community, economic independence, education, health and safety, and youth development.

"The Michigan Women's Commission was established statutorily in 1968 and was charged with many responsibilities, one being the recognition of the accomplishments of Michigan women," said Governor Engler. "The First Annual Governor's Unsung Heroine Awards provide an excellent opportunity to honor Michigan women and give credit to their efforts."

Six women will be honored at the Awards ceremony held at the Detroit Athletic Club on March 5, 2002. "This is an exceptional group of women. We are proud to honor them in their respective categories," said Anne Norlander, Chairwoman of the Michigan Women's Commission, of the six women who have been selected to receive an award. Recipients of the 2002 First Annual Governor's Unsung Heroine Awards are:

• Ms. Jeanne Lorenz of St. Clair Shores, in the category of Civil Rights, for her promotion of ethnic and racial justice at Interfaith Center for Racial Justice.
• Ms. Nancy Stewart of Petoskey, in the category of Community, for her work with survivors of domestic violence at Safe Home and the Women's Resource Center.
• Ms. Mary Pat McDougall of Detroit, in the category of Economic Independence, for her work with older adults at Operation ABLE of Michigan.
• Ms. Carolyn Clardy of Manistee, in the category of Education, for her role in founding and directing the Women's Resource Center at West Shore Community College.
• Ms. Bethany Belanger of Port Huron, in the category of Health and Safety, for her donation of 9,600 bike helmets to area youth and community service initiative.
• Ms. Cynthia Yao of Ann Arbor, in the category of Youth Development, for her creation and direction of the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum.

Persons interested in obtaining information about the event may call the Michigan Women's Commission at (517) 373-2884.