Governor Rendell, First Lady Recognize Eight Distinguished Daughters of Pennsylvania

HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell and First Lady Judge Marjorie O. Rendell today recognized the accomplishments of eight Distinguished Daughters of Pennsylvania and praised their contributions to a variety of fields.

"This year's Distinguished Daughters of Pennsylvania have done extraordinary work in many different capacities," said Governor Rendell. "Their contributions to Pennsylvania and the nation have come as educators and authors, internationally known journalists, champions for those in need, and executives with a focus on building healthy communities. I am grateful for the work that these women have done on our behalf to strengthen our state and the quality of life for so many residents."

"It is a privilege to honor the dedication and commitment of these extraordinary women of Pennsylvania," said Judge Rendell. "Their legacy of leadership is making a difference across the state."

The following were honored as Distinguished Daughters:

• Susan Brownlee, Pittsburgh, has relentlessly sought excellence, fairness, and the company of others who hold the same passion for the importance of education and the arts in the development of healthy communities;
• Holly Brubach, Pittsburgh, is an internationally known journalist, author and leader in the arts, architecture and design;
• Dee Delaney, Pittsburgh, has worked for 20 years to provide systemic change and foster community inclusion for children and adults with disabilities in southwestern Pennsylvania;
• Terry Gross, Philadelphia, is the host and co-executive producer of the interview program "Fresh Air," which is produced at WHYY in Philadelphia and heard on more than 500 National Public Radio stations;
• Amy Gutmann, Philadelphia, President of the University of Pennsylvania, eliminated student loans for eligible undergraduates and has increased undergraduate financial aid by 78 percent;
• Kathleen Hall Jamieson, Philadelphia, is the Elizabeth Ware Packard Professor of Communication at the Annenberg School for Communication and Director of its Annenberg Public Policy Center at the University of Pennsylvania;
• Estelle Richman, Philadelphia, is an exceptional leader in the area of human services and began her job as Chief Operating Officer at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in 2010.  She formerly served as secretary of Pennsylvania's Department of Public Welfare.
• Suzanne Fisher Staples, Nicholson (Wyoming County), has devoted her life to promoting international understanding through literature, most effectively through her award-winning novels for young adults based on her 13 years experience as a foreign news correspondent in South Asia for United Press International and as an editor for the Washington Post.

To be selected as a Distinguished Daughter, women must be nominated by organizations within the state for accomplishments of statewide or national importance. Medals and citations are presented to honorees at the Governor's Residence in Harrisburg.

The Distinguished Daughters of Pennsylvania awards began in 1949 as a way to recognize influential women for their leadership, distinguished service, and contributions to the state through their professional and/or volunteer service. To date, 458 women have received the award and recognition.

For a more detailed list of this year's Distinguished Daughters accomplishments, or for more program information, visit www.pcw.state.pa.us or call 888-615-7477.

Media contacts:

Anne C. Bale, Commission for Women; 717-829-4726

Mia DeVane, Governor's Office; 717-783-1116

SOURCE Pennsylvania Office of the Governor