Michael Smith Honored with 40-Under-Forty

Achievement Award

06.13.2002

NEW YORK, NY-Michael Smith, currently President and CEO of the Griffin Security Agency, was the recipient of one of The Network Journal's 5th Annual "40-Under-Forty" achievement awards in June 2002. The award recognized 40 individuals under the age of 40, who have achieved significant success and made substantial contributions in business and community service.

Mr. Smith was selected for his success as a minority entrepreneur establishing the predecessor company of the Griffin Security Agency, Wintonclyff Protective Services. At the time, Wintonclyff Protective Services employed more than 300 employees, over 85 percent of whom were minorities. Additionally, Mr. Smith and his company participated in community activities designed to uplift local business and the residential community, including local fairs and scholarships. Mr. Smith had been previously recognized in June 2001, by the Brooklyn Bureau of Community Services Business Advisory Council for his achievement in providing skill sets, training and eventually assisting in the licensing of security officers.

Beginning in January 2002, candidates were asked to submit their nominations, including a biography and resume as well as their age and background information. To review the 200 entries, an independent panel of judges was selected by The Network Journal. The judges paired the group down and awarded the 40 most influential applicants.

The award recipients were featured in the June 2002 issue of The Network Journal and in a subsequent video presentation. The accomplishments of the honorees, as well as their affiliated companies, were showcased in both channels.

The Network Journal has been featured on CNN's Entrepreneur's Only, the New York Daily News, and in a variety of other publications for providing significant information and outstanding service to the African American business community.