News Release: Michigan Catholic Conference Welcomes Ms. Rosemary E. Smith to Board of Directors

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2006

(LANSING)—Michigan Catholic Conference announced today Ms. Rosemary E. Smith of the Diocese of Gaylord has been appointed to serve on the Conference’s Board of Directors. The board is comprised of the seven (arch) bishops of the Province of Detroit and seven other persons, with His Eminence Adam Cardinal Maida serving as chairman.

“Ms. Smith is a highly qualified woman who possesses tremendous financial acumen and an extensive track record in community and volunteer service. She will bring to board deliberations keen insight and a knowledgeable perspective,” said Michigan Catholic Conference President and Chief Executive Officer Sister Monica Kostielney, R.S.M.

Ms. Smith has over 12 years of investment experience, beginning with the World Trade Center in New York City in August 1993. She is a Registered Representative, licensed series 7, 65 and 66, carrying also life and annuity insurance designations. Serving most recently as Vice President of Investments for UBS Financial Services in Gaylord, Ms. Smith also held the position of Vice President of Investments for Robert W. Baird and Co. of Gaylord, as well as financial advisor for Morgan Stanley/Dean Witter Reynolds in Voorhees, New Jersey.

Among Ms. Smith’s many volunteer and community service activities include: chairperson of the Michigan Surgeon General’s “Michigan Steps Up” campaign; board member and founder of OWL-Pine Bears, Otsego Wildlife Legacy Society; an appointment to Congressman Bart Stupak’s “Academic Appointment Committee;” chairperson of the United Way of Otesego County; active Rotarian and board member of the Rotary Club of Gaylord and board member of the Diocese of Gaylord’s Finance Council and Investment Committee. Ms. Smith was named the “Duane Weiss Memorial Businessperson of the Year” in 2006 by the Gaylord/Otsego County Chamber of Commerce.

Michigan Catholic Conference is the official public policy voice of the Catholic Church in this state.

-- 30 --