LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - April 29, 2009 - DiversityBusiness.com, the nation's leading multicultural business website, has announced the honorees for it's "Champions of Diversity Award" for 2009.  This distinguished group of individuals are recognized for their outstanding achievements in various diversity initiatives within their companies and communities.

The "Champions of Diversity Award" represent individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to solutions in diversity issues on a regional and a national level.  The honorees have made a significant impact on diversity issues in employment, procurement, housing and education.  These "soft" sell champions have not waved a diversity flag but have quietly made a difference in the lives of people by positively impacting their lives, and improving the economic conditions for their families and communities.

"I am extremely excited about this year's honoree list" said Kenton Clarke, CEO of DiversityBusiness.com.  "This recognition brings attention to real results provided by many different people representing all sectors of diversity and who can quantify success made by their efforts."  Carmen Smith in her position as Vice President of Global Strategies for Diversity and Inclusion at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts is a great example of one of the "Champions".  Using her position at Disney, she worked closely with a variety of community, civic and industry groups to ensure that more people of color had opportunities in front of the camera and behind the camera.  Monica Gil, Vice President Communication and Public Affairs have built relationships with external diverse communities in an effort to strengthen Nielsen's effectiveness in reaching and measuring these diverse communities.  The "Champions of Diversity" were honored at a special awards ceremony at DiversityBusiness.com's 9th Annual Multicultural Business Conference that took place April 29 - May 1, 2009 at Disney's Contemporary Resort in Orlando, FL.

"America should be proud of the results produced by the "Champions" and other, says Mr. Clarke.  "They are most deserving of this recognition and they continue to make our country the greatest place on earth to live".