Mazda Donates Four MAZDA6 Sedans to Dillard University

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 1, 2009 -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today donated four 2009 MAZDA6 sedans to Dillard University, a private, historically black, liberal arts institution, located in New Orleans, LA.

The MAZDA6 sedans will be used by Dillard University's Security Department as well as for other operational uses and faculty use for a seven-year period.

Craig Paretti of Paretti Mazda in Metairie, LA, has generously agreed to deliver the vehicles as well as donate all maintenance needs throughout the seven-year loan.

"We are delighted to be able to donate these MAZDA6 vehicles to Dillard," remarked MNAO executive and Dillard University Board of Trustees member Jay Amestoy. "Mazda and the Mazda Foundation (USA), Inc. have been long-time supporters of Dillard University and actively seek ways in which we can continue to help the University progress."

"We will put these cars to great use," said Dillard University President Dr. Marvalene Hughes. "This gift will help us offset operational costs for the University and we thank Mazda for their generosity."

For 12 years, the Mazda Foundation has annually awarded scholarships to Dillard students in the Japanese Studies and/or International Business programs. Additionally, the Mazda Foundation has funded a language laboratory for the University, as well as provided capital support for a new academic center, which houses the Mazda Classroom. Mazda has also hosted several Dillard students as interns at both its North American headquarters in Irvine, CA, and its government affairs office in Washington, DC, as well as at its global headquarters in Hiroshima, Japan.

Celebrating its 40th Anniversary in the United States in 2010, Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.