Nissan Expands Partnership with Heisman Trophy Trust

FRANKLIN, Tenn., Jan. 5, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced an extension of its longtime partnership with the Heisman Trophy Trust, presenter of the annual Heisman Memorial Trophy in recognition of the outstanding college football player in the United States.  Nissan, which began its relationship with the Heisman Trophy in 2005, now becomes the exclusive "Premier Partner" in an agreement than runs through 2016. 

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Nissan, under the new pact, will continue to support the charitable mission of the Heisman Trophy Trust, as well as promote the Heisman Trophy Award through activities such as an exclusive Heisman Trophy Tour, consumer sweepstakes, social media, online activities and other events.  For the 2011 season, Nissan created a special series of  "Heisman House" game day commercials featuring the Heisman Trophy and 11 former Heisman Trophy winners.

"The Heisman Trophy, since it was first awarded in 1935, has recognized the top performers in college football.  As a company that prides itself in delivering innovation and performance for all, it's a natural association," said Jon Brancheau, vice president, Marketing, Nissan North America.  "The fan response to our Heisman-related activities, from the Heisman House commercials to the annual Heisman Trophy Tour and awards sweepstakes, has been tremendous.  We look forward to expanding these programs – and adding new ones – in the next five years."

"The Heisman Trophy Trust is pleased and proud to extend and expand its long term successful relationship with a quality partner like Nissan.  Nissan's continued support aids the Trust in fulfilling its charitable mission to provide opportunities for underserved and disadvantaged youth of our country and returning military service personnel," said Bill Dockery, Heisman Trustee.

In addition to its partnership with the Heisman Trophy Trust, Nissan is a sponsoring partner of the annual Bowl Championship Series (BCS), including the upcoming national championship game between Louisiana State University and Alabama on Jan. 9th.

About Nissan North America

In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, design, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing.  Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010 and has been recognized as a 2010 and 2011 ENERGY STAR^® Partner of the Year by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency.  More information about Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and

www.Infiniti.com.

About Nissan

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Japan's second largest Japanese automotive company by volume, is headquartered in Yokohama, Japan and is an integral pillar of the Renault-Nissan Alliance. Operating with more than 150,000 employees globally, Nissan provided customers with more than 4 million vehicles in 2010.  With a strong commitment to developing exciting and innovative products for all, Nissan delivers a comprehensive range of fuel-efficient and low-emissions vehicles under the Nissan and Infiniti brands.  A pioneer in zero emission mobility, Nissan made history with the introduction of the Nissan LEAF, the first affordable, mass-market, pure-electric vehicle and winner of numerous international accolades including the prestigious 2011 European Car of the Year award.  For more information on our products, services and commitment to Sustainable Mobility, visit our website at http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/.

About the Heisman Trophy Trust

The Heisman Memorial Trophy annually recognizes the outstanding college football player in the United States.  Winners epitomize great ability combined with diligence, perseverance, and hard work. The Heisman Trophy Trust ensures the continuation and integrity of this award. The Trust, furthermore, has a charitable mission to support amateur athletes and to provide greater opportunities to the youth of our country.  Our goal through these charitable endeavors is for The Heisman Trophy to symbolize the fostering of a sense of community responsibility and service to our youth, especially those disadvantaged or afflicted.

SOURCE Nissan North America, Inc.