GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., September 19, 2005 – Verne J. Kenney has been named as the new executive vice president of sales for Zondervan. Kenney will replace Cris Doornbos, who recently left Zondervan to serve as president and CEO of Cook Communications in Colorado Springs.

In his new position, Kenney, a 14-year Zondervan veteran, will lead the entire Zondervan sales organization. He will be responsible for the development of growth strategies for all distribution channels to improve revenues, market share, and profitability on a global basis. In addition, he will oversee several departments, including customer service, credit, and a portion of supply chain management. In addition, Kenney will serve as a member of the Zondervan Leadership Team, working to support the company’s mission, commitments and shared values.

“Verne’s vast experience and industry knowledge will serve Zondervan well in his new role,” said Doug Lockhart, president of Zondervan. “In his time here, Verne has built a strong general market, ABA, and international sales team. His leadership has transformed the way we do business with our CBA national accounts, general market and ABA customers. I look forward to the impact Verne will have on our entire sales organization in his new role.”

Kenney joined Zondervan in 1991 as special sales western regional manager. He was then promoted to various management positions throughout the sales group earning the title of vice president in 1997. Most recently, Kenney served as vice president of sales and forecasting.