“I’m grateful and really want to thank everyone who contributed to making this record. I never could have done this by myself. From Amy Grant, Leeland and Matt Bronlewee, to all the players; this nomination represents a great team effort,” shared Smith from the bleachers of the University of Texas at El Paso Stadium.

Tonight, Smith delivers the commencement speech for the El Paso Community College and will also surprise long-time faculty member, Lucy Scarborough, with a Presidential Volunteer Service Award in recognition of her years of volunteerism. In addition, a scholarship in Smith’s name will be awarded to a deserving student. Tomorrow night, Smith performs his It’s A Wonderful Christmas tour with Melinda Doolittle, The Katinas and the El Paso Symphony Orchestra.

Over his 24-year career as a recording artist, Michael W. Smith has amassed an impressive catalog of achievements. His 20 albums have garnered multiple honors including an American Music Award, 3 GRAMMY Awards (from 13 nominations) and 40 Gospel Music Association Dove Awards. In addition, he holds 16 Gold and 5 Platinum albums, 31 No.1 radio hits, and has been named one of People Magazine’s Most Beautiful People. Smith has also scored several film projects and written 11 books. His tours consistently rank among the best attended in the country and he has performed to capacity crowds throughout the world. Constantly giving back to the community, one of his current projects is Rocketown -- a nightclub for teens in his hometown of Nashville, Tenn. -- which serves as safe place for young people to enjoy music and for artists to be discovered. He is married to Debbie Smith and they are the proud parents of five children.

For up-to-date information on Michael W. Smith, including tour itinerary, please visit www.michaelwsmith.com or www.reunionrecords.com.

The 50th Annual GRAMMY Awards will be held on “GRAMMY Sunday,” Feb. 10, 2008, at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and once again will be broadcast live in high definition TV and 5.1 surround sound on CBS from 8 – 11:30 p.m. (ET/PT).

Established in 1957, The Recording Academy is an organization of musicians, producers, engineers and recording professionals that is dedicated to improving the cultural condition and quality of life for music and its makers. Internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards — the preeminent peer-recognized award for musical excellence and the most credible brand in music — The Recording Academy is responsible for groundbreaking professional development, cultural enrichment, advocacy, education and human services programs. In its 50th year, The Academy continues to focus on its mission of recognizing musical excellence, advocating for the well-being of music makers and ensuring music remains an indelible part of our culture. For more information about The Academy, please visit www.grammy.com.