First Lady Honored with McDonald's Founder's Award

CHICAGO -- Governor and Mrs. Ryan today joined McDonald's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Jack M. Greenberg, to honor the birthday of company founder Ray Kroc by announcing the national kick-off for Founder's Week 2000, an opportunity for employees to give back to communities nationwide.

During the event, Mrs. Ryan was recognized for her leadership as Honorary Chair for the Illinois Ronald McDonald House Charities and for her role as Chair of the Futures for Kids Advisory Panel. Mrs. Ryan was given the "Press-On" Award in honor of McDonald's Founder, Ray Kroc.

"The Ronald McDonald House Charities have accomplished so much for our communities. I am dedicated to this and all volunteerism projects because each act has a positive impact," Mrs. Ryan said. "I would like to thank each of you, for your efforts during this week, and for everything you do to make someone else's day so much brighter.

"Founders Week is a wonderful way for McDonald's employees and staff to honor Ray Kroc, McDonald's Founder, who was an advocate for community service," Governor Ryan said. It is also an opportunity to honor the people they serve in his memory. It's an opportunity to volunteer their time and effort to make communities everywhere better places to live, work, and play."

The Ryans and Jack Greenberg were joined at Lincoln Park High School by other McDonald's executives; Chicago Public Schools CEO Paul Vallas; and other city and state officials.