SAN MATEO, CA....Con-way Inc. recently honored five exemplary employees with its fourth annual CEO Constellation Awards. Executives selected the winners from throughout the enterprise as those who best exemplify the company's core values of integrity, commitment and excellence.

 "Our company's foundation is the talent, skill and dedication of our employees. They drive the value we bring to our customers and shareholders every day, and differentiate us from the rest of the marketplace," said Douglas W. Stotlar, Con-way's president and CEO. "These five employees are outstanding representatives of our mission and values, and their extraordinary performance merits the CEO Constellation Award — our company's highest recognition. I congratulate them and thank them for their commitment to everything that Con-way stands for."

The CEO Constellation Awards represent the highest employee honor bestowed by the company each year. Stotlar and the presidents of each of Con-way’s three operating companies chose the five winners from 10 finalists culled from the company's 21 President's Award winners, which had been selected from its 260 Quarterly Leader Award recipients. Constellation Award winners each receive a sculptured crystal vase inscribed with their name, a monetary prize and a lifetime of recognition within the company. They are also attending a special recognition event which will include an executive retreat with Stotlar and the three operating company presidents.

Con-way's 2010 CEO Constellation Award winners:

Chris Bott, director of operations, Con-way Freight, Cleveland, Ohio: Bott, a Wadsworth, Ohio, native, has worked for Con-way Freight for 24 years. Highly respected by his coworkers, he is known for his effective and compassionate leadership, as well as enthusiastic participation in company initiatives. Bott is also credited with an outstanding ability to form productive relationships with stakeholders both inside and outside the company.

Robin Bryant, transportation manager, Menlo Worldwide Logistics, Lincolnton, N.C.: A 10-year veteran of Menlo from Lincolnton, N.C., Bryant is noted by colleagues for her strong work ethic and innovative problem-solving abilities. For example, a database tool she created streamlined work processes and cut significant costs for both customers and the company. Bryant was also recognized for her outstanding leadership skills and civic involvement.

Letchumanan Chidambaram, senior supervisor, operations, Menlo Worldwide Logistics, Singapore: Chidambaram, a native of Singapore, has worked for Menlo for four years. He is known as a skilled leader with superior coaching abilities and unquestionable integrity. Chidambaram is respected by both peers and managers for perseverance and the determination to find solutions to problems.

Steve Studer, shop manager, Con-way Truckload, Joplin, Mo.: Studer is originally from Columbus, Kan., and joined the Con-way Truckload team six years ago. Noted for his effective leadership, he is also known for sharing credit for successes while taking responsibility for problems. Studer's colleagues say he leads by example and excels at team-building.

Laurie Zech, internal audit manager, Con-way Enterprise Services, Portland, Ore.: Zech, a 15-year veteran of Con-way, was recognized for a combination of technical expertise and the ability to communicate with and inspire others. The Beaverton, Ore., native has participated in key roles of several major international projects, and set an example with her dedication and hard work. Her colleagues note that she is "patient,""tenacious" and "well-respected."