ATHENS, Ohio -- Ohio University's Center for International Business Education and Development received the Governor's Excellence in Exporting Award on July 19 in Columbus. CIBED, a program in Ohio University's College of Business, was one of 17 businesses or organizations presented the award by Ohio Gov. Bob Taft.

The award was developed in 1985 to recognize Ohio companies and organizations that have increased sales through exports, generated jobs as a direct result of export activity or developed and implemented a strategy to expand international sales. More than 265 companies or organizations have received the award since 1991.

CIBED offers several international exchange and study abroad programs that expose students to diverse cultures, languages and perspectives to prepare them for future international business opportunities.

CIBED has study abroad and international exchange programs in England, Spain, Hungary, Germany, France, India and China. Students study management, finance, economics, law, marketing, business administration and foreign languages. While abroad, Ohio University students team with international students from the host country on real-world business consulting projects.

Taft also awarded the Exporter of the Year Award to Convergys Corp. of Cincinnati. The award was created in 1994 to honor one company or organization that distinguishes itself in the international marketplace and exemplifies the state's commitment to international trade.

For more information on the CIBED, contact Cheryl Branham at (740) 593-2021 or branhamc@ohio.edu.