Celebrating Financial Executives.

• Position: FROM THE EDITOR - Letter to the editor

Over the years, Financial Executive has published countless articles on the challenges facing senior-level financial executives who are involved in keeping the finance function running smoothly. But how many celebrate the role of the steward of the company's finances and financial policies?

Six years ago, in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of Financial Executives International, the FEI Hall of Fame was launched to recognize and celebrate such financial leaders. The first year five outstanding executives were inducted into the Hall, and celebrated at a black-tie gala at the famed Rainbow Room in Rockefeller Center in New York City.

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It's now become a tradition, as several years and several more inductees and sold-out galas have passed, bringing us to the 6th annual Hall of Fame awards and gala, on Nov. 14, at Gotham Hall, a historic bank in New York City.

What a fitting place to hold the event for FEI's 80th anniversary year, and particularly so as many of the 30 founding fathers of the association were bankers. Over the years, the Hall has grown--in both size and prestige--to honor some of our nation's outstanding financial executives. This year's three recipients are no exception. Robert C. Butler, Judy C. Lewent and David B. Rickard are being honored for significant achievement over their impressive careers.

In interviewing this year's inductees with my colleague Lorna Raagas tor the cover story--all associated with iconic American companies--I was taken with the talent, focus, depth and exceptional characteristics of these financial leaders. Their careers reflect not only great corporate achievements, but impart lessons on how to handle big issues and find innovative solutions to financial challenges. I invite you to read the profiles of this year's inductees, which begins on page 33.

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