Christopher & Banks Names First-Ever Amazing Women Contest Winners

MINNEAPOLIS, July 2, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Christopher & Banks Corporation today announced its first-ever Amazing Women contest winners: Michelle Johnson of Springfield, Mo. (grand prize), Andrea Lea Berdine of Hollister, Mo. (runner up) and Ellen Adcock of Greenville, Ill. (runner up), who were selected from more than 1,700 entries.

The retailer announced its Amazing Women contest call for nominations in April in honor of Mother's Day to celebrate the women who raise, cheer on, care for and support future generations. Johnson was nominated by her friend Lynn Boone for her role as a foster parent to more than 300 children over the years.

"Michelle takes in the children no one else can handle, and she makes a difference in their lives," Boone said. "She has always done without, so children will have what they need – and more. She never buys anything for herself, and I would love to see her get something for a change."

As the grand prize winner, Johnson will receive a:

• $500 Christopher & Banks/CJ Banks gift card
• $500 donation to an agreed upon selected charity
• Trip to the Christopher & Banks headquarters in Minnesota, including a:
  • Personalized shopping experience at the Christopher & Banks/CJ Banks flagship store at the Mall of America^®
  • Spa experience
  • Professional video and photo shoot
• Invitation to serve as a Christopher & Banks/CJ Banks Amazing Women Brand Ambassador

"When we told Michelle she not only had been nominated – but that she had won, she was shocked to find people consider what she does inspiring," said LuAnn Via, Christopher & Banks president and CEO. "Women like Michelle – and so many others – believe the remarkable and inspirational things they do are ordinary. We know that Every Day, Women Do Amazing Things^® and that is exactly why we wanted to hear women's stories and celebrate the difference they make in our lives and our communities."

Amazing Women Contest Runners Up

First runner up Berdine was nominated by her friend Tabby Meadows for dedicating herself to serving the homeless and others in need.

Berdine was first inspired to help the homeless when she witnessed a homeless man turned away from a thrift store when he couldn't afford a coat on a cold and rainy day. After helping him, she started Selfless Blessings, a nonprofit thrift store where everything is free.

"She gave up her career to help those in need and every day helps people get their basic needs met," said Meadows. "She's an inspiration to many!"

Second runner up Ellen Adcock was nominated by her husband Daniel Adcock for her devotion to their two autistic sons and her dedication to autism advocacy. Adcock played a major role in creating an adult day program for adults with autism who had no place to go, where they could learn how to keep up on daily living and socializing skills.

As runners up, Berdine and Ellen Adcock will each receive a:

• $100 Christopher & Banks/CJ Banks gift card
• Personalized shopping experience at their local Christopher & Banks/CJ Banks store
• Invitation to serve as a Christopher & Banks/CJ Banks Brand Ambassador

More Amazing Women

Christopher & Banks will continue its yearlong celebration of Amazing Women with additional searches for Amazing Women in categories such as teachers and nurses to recognize the contributions they make to their families, friends, communities and society.

Contest websites will be updated as each search launches. Watch for information on how to nominate the amazing women in your life by visiting Christopher & Banks Facebook page, CJ Banks Facebook page, Christopher & Banks website or CJ Banks website.

About Christopher & Banks

Christopher & Banks Corporation is a Minneapolis-based specialty retailer of women's clothing. The Company currently operates 543 stores in 43 states consisting of 254 Christopher & Banks stores, 120 stores in its women's plus size clothing division C.J. Banks, 133 Missy/Petites/Women stores and 36 outlet stores. The Company also operates the www.ChristopherandBanks.com and www.CJBanks.com e-commerce websites.

Every Day, Women Do Amazing Things^®

SOURCE Christopher & Banks Corporation