BY RANDY TUCKER
The Cincinnati Enquirer
Procter & Gamble Co.'s John Pepper today will receive the Advertising Council's public service award for his philanthropic efforts. The award - given annually to a business leader who has demonstrated a commitment to community service and volunteerism - will be presented at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York.
Mr. Pepper, the P&G chief executive who has been lauded for his involvement in education reform, health care and other charitable endeavors, will be the award's 45th recipient.
"This is truly an extraordinary honor because it recognizes efforts that I care deeply about," Mr. Pepper said.
Ruth Wooden, president of the Advertising Council - which produces public-service advertising, underwritten primarily by corporate contributions - said the organization selected Mr. Pepper for its highest honor, in part, because he doesn't seek such recognition. "John tends to not be in the limelight doing these things," Ms. Wooden said.
Mr. Pepper's community involvement includes being co-chair of the Governor's Education Council of the State of Ohio; co-chair of the Cincinnati Youth Collaborative; and a member of the Business Roundtable.
