MBE examines affirmative action procurement and contracting programs in the public and private sectors and features success stories of entrepreneurs whose accomplishments may serve to inspire others.

Ms. Conrad has more than 35 years' experience in magazine publishing, and is the publisher and sole proprietor of MBE. Prior to starting MBE, she worked in the publishing industry in various key positions, which included associate publisher for Showcase USA (an export trade publication) and the IEEE Computer Society's publications.

A nationally recognized expert on business development issues, Ms. Conrad has appeared on nationally syndicated television and radio programs. She is also a much sought after keynote speaker and panelist for events sponsored by numerous organizations that include the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Institute for Supply Management, the National Association of Minority Contractors, the National Minority Supplier Development Council, the Minority Business Enterprise Legal Defense and Education Fund, and the New Ventures Conference 2000.

Highly regarded as a dedicated media advocate for minority and women's enterprise development, Ms. Conrad has been honored by the public and private sectors for her many efforts and outstanding achievements. She's received awards from the Small Business Administration, the National Minority Business Council, the National Association of Purchasing Management, NASA, and the U.S. Minority Business Development Agency, among others.

Ms. Conrad continues to be actively involved in leadership positions in various organizations that include the Institute for Supply Management's Minority & Women's Business Development Group. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in theatre from Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Indiana.