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Chairman _____. Members of _______. Family members. Honored attendees. Friends.

Welcome and thank you for coming. It’s great to stand before such a distinguished and beautiful audience. And rarely do I get to say that, not having the privilege of speaking to predominantly female groups. And looking out over this crowd, I can say one thing for sure. Anybody who says this is a man’s world is probably not too bright about other things either.

I want to recognize one especially distinguished guest tonight. In this industry, his name has truly become a household word. He has been the catalyst and converter for [insert]. The (type) industry owes him its future. (Name), would you please stand and accept our gratitude.

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(Name) is with us tonight. Were I to list (name)’s contributions to our profession and community, the credits would be longer than those that roll across your latest movie screen. You’ve read them everywhere, so I won’t repeat them tonight. Let me just say we’re honored that you’re here.

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The letters after (name)’s name sound like alphabet soup. Ph.D. CPS. CPAE. CPE. But I’ll try to translate all those distinguished titles into plain English: This is one successful tycoon. Give him a hearty welcome.

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Don’t you like suspenseful movies, those that keep you on the edge of your seat? Don’t you like the part where the detective or the private eye cleverly gathers all the suspects and interested parties in one room and then suddenly reveals the true killer? Or the movies where, right to the very end, you don’t know which of the nice guys will win the girl?

Well, I feel much the same way tonight. I could turn to several of you gathered here—(names of distinguished guests or honorees for award)—and say “You did it.” Or, “You won.” Or, “You have been successful.” “You have done what it takes to make a successful career and a successful company.” The rest of us have the utmost respect for your talent and your achievement.

I take great pleasure in introducing our distinguished guest tonight, (name). Her responsibilities are many and heavy. Among them, she is totally responsible for [insert], [insert], and [insert]. With great respect and admiration, I present to you (name).