WNBA Women's National Basketball Association

UJA-Federation of New York to honor WNBA President Donna Orender

March 14, 2006 - Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) News Release


NEW YORK, March 13, 2006 - For the first time, a woman will be in the spotlight when WNBA President Donna Orender is honored by UJA-Federation of New York's Entertainment, Media & Communications Division for her loyal and longstanding dedication to community. The Sports for Youth Luncheon will be hosted by famed CBS Sports reporter Lesley Visser and will take place Thursday, March 16, 2006, at 11:30 a.m. at Play by Play Restaurant at Madison Square Garden.

More than 200 sports, television, and radio stars and professionals will be in attendance for this historic gathering celebrating the marriage of sports, community, and children. Past Sports for Youth honorees include former ESPN executive and current Six Flags CEO Mark Shapiro, Yankee manager and four-time World Series champion Joe Torre, Knicks Hall of Famer Willis Reed, and U.S. Track and Field CEO Craig Masback.

"It is an honor to be recognized by an organization that enhances the lives of millions of people worldwide," says Orender. "It has always been important for me to give back to the community, and I am proud to be associated with the WNBA, which is committed to addressing important social issues and supporting education, youth and family development, and health-related causes. UJA-Federation is an extraordinary example for us to follow with its unmatched passion and dedication to community service."

"It's an honor to help usher in the WNBA's 10-year anniversary by celebrating Donna, whose vision in the sports world is matched by her caring heart and dedication to community and children," says Russell Wolff, executive vice president, ESPN International, who chairs the Sports for Youth event with Leslie Ann Wade, vice president of communications, CBS Sports.

Orender, who took over as head of the WNBA in February 2005 after 17 seasons as an executive with the PGA Tour, is a rising talent in the sports business world. In December 2005, Fox Sports Network named Orender the seventh most powerful woman in sports, behind such notables as IndyCar's Danica Patrick and BET's Sheila Johnson. Orender is a rare executive who combines business savvy with athletic experience, having been a college basketball standout at Queens College and an All-Star in the Women's Professional Basketball League.

Orender's philanthropic reach is also extensive, having served on the boards of Beth El-The Beaches Synagogue; the Monique Burr Foundation for Children, Inc.; the Jacksonville Film & Television Advisory Council; the University of North Florida College of Arts and Science Advisory Council; and Maccabi USA/Sports for Israel. She also served as co-chair for the USA Women's Basketball team for the 16th World Maccabiah Games in Israel and participates in the National Minority Golf Foundation Mentor Program.

Now in its fifth year, UJA-Federation's Sports for Youth Luncheon celebrates sports leaders who demonstrate a strong commitment to caring for the community. Through direct grants to local agencies, UJA-Federation's Sports for Youth initiative affirms the healing effect of sports on children by enabling children of all ethnic and religious backgrounds, and of all ages and athletic abilities, to enjoy competitive sports.

About UJA-Federation of New York

The world's largest local philanthropy, UJA-Federation of New York strengthens community and helps 1.4 million people in New York City, Westchester County, and Long Island, as well as 3 million in Israel and 60 other countries. Funds raised by UJA-Federation sustain the activities of 100 health, human-service, educational, and community agencies. Every day, these community-based organizations provide a multitude of services that improve and enhance people's lives.

About the WNBA

The WNBA's 10th anniversary season tips off on Saturday, May 20 and will include ABC's national telecast from Sacramento where the defending WNBA Champion Monarchs will commemorate their 2005 WNBA title by raising their championship banner. The Monarchs will then square off against all-star guard Diana Taurasi and the Phoenix Mercury at ARCO Arena beginning at 4 p.m. EDT. Opening day also includes the inaugural game of the league's 14th franchise, the Chicago Sky, as it visits the Charlotte Sting. For more information, visit www.wnba.com.

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