DARRYL B. HAZEL NAMED AFRICAN AMERICAN EXECUTIVE OF THE YEAR

DETROIT, Jan. 7, 2003 – Darryl B. Hazel, president, Lincoln Mercury, was honored as the Edward Davis African American Executive of the Year by On Wheels, Inc. at its 7th annual Urban Wheel Awards at the Detroit Institute of Arts. The Urban Wheel Awards is a celebration of diversity in automotive advertising, as well as supplier and workplace diversity.

"Darryl was honored for his successful leadership at Ford Motor Company, policy of open and honest communications with all employees, passion for diversity and mentoring of the Ford African American Network (FAAN) Employee Resource Group. He's a strong leader and mentor and stands out among his peers in the industry," said Randi Payton, President and CEO of On Wheels, Inc.

Hazel said, "I am pleased to be counted among many outstanding individuals honored by Randi Payton and his associates for a strong commitment to diversity. I believe in the diversity of inclusion: different thoughts, perspectives and ideas, and this award spotlights the kind of commitment to diversity we strongly believe in at Ford Motor Company."