AETNA Unveils "Leaders of the Century" Calendar
Aetna released its annual Calendar of African-American History with the theme,
"Leaders of the Century." This year's calendar commemorates 12 of the most
influential African Americans of the 20th century. A distinguished panel of historians
selected the following people and the categories they represent:
- Booker T, Washington - Education
- Sarah "Madame C.J." Walker - Business
- Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington - Performing Arts
- Howard Thurman - Religion
- Langston Hughes - Literature
- Charles Richard Drew, MD - Medicine/Science/Technology
- Thurgood Marshall - Law and Jurisprudence
- Jacob Lawrence - Visual Arts
- Jackie Robinson - Sports
- Malcolm X- Politics/Public Life
- Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - Human Rights/Civil Rights
- Oprah Gail Winfrey - Media/Communications
"We are very proud to close the century with such a special calendar for the year
2000," said Richard L. Huber, chairman and CEO of Aetna. "Aetna continues its
commitment of partnering to produce this calendar.
Five individuals were nominated in each category. Assisting in the final selection of
12 candidates, more than 27,000 people from across the nation cast ballots on Aetna's Web
site and in Black Enterprise magazine. For each vote cast, Aetna made a donation, to
America's Promise - The Alliance for Youth, led by retired Gen. Colin Powell.
"Without the contributions of these 12 individuals, American life would be the
poorer," said Earl G. Graves. "These individuals are great examples for our
children and far people of all ages and races."
The "Leaders of the Century" calendar marks the 20-year anniversary of Aetna
recognizing the contributions of African Americans to American life. Over the years, more
than 200 individuals - pioneers in fields such as business, politics, athletics, science,
nutrition, medicine, academics and entertainment - have been featured in Aetna's Calendar
of African- American History.
As is its custom, Aetna will send thousands of calendars to elementary schools,
businesses, nonprofit organizations and media publications across the country, As in
previous calendars, there are noted African-American history facts for every day of the
year.
Aetna is a leading provider of health, retirement and financial service benefits.
Through its three core businesses, Aetna U.S. Healthcare, Aetna Financial Services and
Aetna International, the company provides nearly 47 million people worldwide with quality
products, services and information to help them manage best what matters most; their
health and financial well-being.
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