Chicago’s Next Generation of Internet Professionals Compete in "Best Web Site" Contest

Chicago—April 24, 2003—Chicago’s next generation of Web designers can get a head start on their careers by entering their own Web site designs in a contest announced today by Hostway Corporation with support from the Mayor’s Council of Technology Advisors (MCTA). The contest is designed to showcase the creative and technical talents of Chicago area high school students, including both self-taught designers and those who have taken advantage of formal Web design courses available through their high schools.

The Chicagoland High School Web Site Designers of the Future Contest prizes include a total of $5,000 in scholarships, and a paid internship at Hostway. Entries may be submitted until June 16, and winners will be selected July 1. Students wishing to enter their Web site designs in the contest may do so online at http://www.hostway.com/highschool/.

"As a city, we are committed to providing opportunities that promote innovation and creativity among Chicago's youth," said Mayor Richard M. Daley. "Encouraging interest and recognizing talent in the area of technology is extremely important for our future generations to grow and succeed."

There will be one Gold Medal winner, one Silver Medal winner, and one Bronze Medal winner. The Gold Medal winner will receive $2,500 scholarship and will be granted an option for a paid summer internship at Hostway. The Silver Medal winner will receive $1,500 scholarship. The Bronze Medal winner will receive $1,000 scholarship.

Hostway has assembled a distinguished panel of judges for its High School Web Site Designers of the Future Contest, including Robin Schabes, technology advisor to Chicago Mayor Daley; Michael Lach, director of science for Chicago Public Schools; Janice Chen, editor CNET reviews; and Lucas Roh, president and Chief Executive Officer of Hostway Corporation.

"We are very pleased to support the educational goals of Mayor Daley," said Lucas Roh, Hostway’s CEO. "I think it’s important for companies like Hostway, a Chicago-based company, to support local technical and creative development of young students who are considering Internet-related careers. Despite what’s happened in the economy during the past few years, the Internet is still in its infancy, and we must encourage today’s talented students to consider careers in this vitally important industry. They’re the people who will help society realize the full potential of the Internet and reap its benefits throughout the 21st century."

Students will compete on the basis of content, structure and navigation, visual design, functionality and success of their Web sites.

"The Chicago Public Schools looks forward to participating in this contest," said Arne Duncan, Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago School System. "It’s an example of good corporate citizenship that provides a meaningful way of recognizing and rewarding our talented high school students. Just as important, the contest emphasizes the need for education programs focused on developing the next generation of technology leaders. This is a challenge we take seriously."

About the Mayor’s Council of Technology Advisors

The Chicago Mayor’s Council of Technology Advisors is a partnership of leaders from the Chicago area’s government, business and not-for-profit communities. It was formed in early 1999 as part of Mayor Richard M. Daley’s commitment to sustain the Chicago area’s leadership role as one of the world’s recognized centers of high-technology activity and growth. The Council recommends strategy and policy, and its members also facilitate the implementation of specific programs.