News Archive - 05.27.03

Two LeapFrog Interactive Executives Named Finalists for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Daniel Knapp, President and CEO of LeapFrog Interactive and Alan Gilleo, Executive Vice President for the company were both named finalists this spring for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Region.

Each year, a select group of judges reviews nominations, interviews nominees and determines winners for the Ernst & Young honors. The judges look at the financial growth of the companies, the entrepreneurs themselves and their leadership style, their ability to adapt to challenges, their passion for their endeavors, their vision and their courage to face risks while continuing to pursue their dreams.

"It may sound like a cliché, but it really is an honor to be a finalist," says Gilleo. "LeapFrog Interactive is a dream come true for Dan and myself. To have someone recognize our company and to consider it worthy of nomination is both flattering and humbling."

Daniel Knapp has this to say about LeapFrog Interactive and the Team. "I am fortunate to get up each morning and do something I love with people I care about. Alan and I may be the individuals nominated for this award, but we would not be here without all of the hard work and dedication of the Team. They are the very core of our business and LeapFrog Interactive exists because of their commitment and dedication."

"Everything starts with an entrepreneur-an individual with vision, leadership and determination, creating new industries and innovative business models for the ever-changing economic landscape," the awards announcement states. "Each year the most successful entrepreneurs vie to be honored with the most prestigious award in this class: the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

"Each individual and company who is nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year," Ernst & Young also notes, "has a unique and interesting story-a story that illustrates the courage, imagination and perseverance it takes to pursue the entrepreneurial dream. By recognizing their accomplishments we hope to encourage and contribute to the kinds of activities and environments that foster and support the entrepreneurial spirit."