Chicago, IL (January 7, 2009)  WVON Radio announced the launch of an innovative new talk show—the Urban Business Roundtable—sponsored by Chicago-based mutual fund company, Ariel Investments.

The weekly program will be hosted by Roland Martin, the award-winning and nationally-recognized radio and television personality—known for his work with TV One, CNN and publications like Savoy magazine.  An insightful and provocative host, Roland has earned more than 20 professional awards for journalistic excellence.

Scheduled to debut on Wednesday, January 7, 2009, the Urban Business Roundtable will promote engaging dialogue and debate about the impact of business and economic trends on the African American community.  The radio program will explore insights from financial experts, business and political leadership, academia as well as open the air waves to listeners city-wide.

Mellody Hobson, Ariel Investments president stated, “We are delighted to partner with WVON on this important program.  Beyond our corporate mission of making money for our clients and shareholders, Ariel is determined to bring the topic of saving and investing to the dinner table of every African-American family.  Working with WVON is a terrific way to get those conversations started.”  

“A first-of-its kind, the Urban Business Roundtable, is a program about African American business for African Americans in business,” stated LaMont Watts, WVON program director.  He added, “The show’s progressive and thought-provoking approach is sure to raise the awareness of our listeners to the current economic climate and what it means for Black Americans.” 

Melody Spann-Cooper, president of WVON Radio added, “We are thrilled by Ariel Investments' support and generosity.  It is a privilege to have our newest radio show endorsed by such a strong civic leader and a respected voice on investing and financial literacy.  Our organizations have a long history of working together and I am delighted we can team up again on the Business Round Table.”

The Urban Business Roundtable airs weekly on Wednesdays from 8:30 am – 9:00 am and repeats on Thursdays at 6:30 pm and Saturdays at 9:30 am CST.

About WVON
For over 45 years, WVON has established itself as one of Chicago’s most highly-esteemed and respected media institutions.  Once known as “The Voice of the Negro,” WVON has evolved into the “Voice of the Nation.”  WVON has been the drum major for the African-American community of Chicago and continues to provide an interactive forum for Chicago’s African-American community to discuss social, economic and political issues. As “The Talk of Chicago,” we are always giving the community something to talk about.  Listen live at: www.wvon.com.

About Ariel Investments
Ariel Investments is a Chicago-based money management firm that serves individual investors and 401(k) plans through its no-load mutual funds.  Additionally, Ariel manages separate accounts for corporate, public, union and non-profit organizations. Throughout its 25-year history, patience has served as the bedrock of Ariel’s investment philosophy and approach to building the firm.  Today, Ariel has become much more than an investment management firm; it is a team of diverse and uniquely talented individuals who share a common mission of helping investors achieve their financial dreams while affecting positive change in the community.  For more information about the firm, please visit arielinvestments.com.