SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., June 23, 1993 -- Cisco Systems has awarded the first annual Cisco Circle Award to Vice President Albert Gore in recognition of his visionary leadership in building global awareness of computer networking through the National Information Highway Initiative.

In a private ceremony here June 21, Cisco President and Chief Executive Officer John Morgridge presented Gore with the award. The Cisco Circle award carries with it a $10,000 donation to the educational institution of his choice. Gore chose to endow the Nancy Gore Hunger Chair of Excellence in Environmental Studies at the University of Tennessee. The chair is being formed in honor of the vice president's sister, who passed away in 1984.

In presenting the award, Morgridge told Gore, "We urge you to continue your efforts by fostering experimentation. The Internet is an excellent example of how investing in networks benefits institutions nation-wide. In the early 1980s, the Federal Government invested $20 million to establish what became the Internet. Today, the Internet links tens of thousands of universities, corporations and governments around the world. By shrinking the effects of geography, the Internet is contributing to a new quality of worldwide understanding through better communication.

"In recognition of your contribution to the advancement of global data networking communication, we are honored to present the first Cisco Circle Award."

The Cisco Circle Award will be presented annually to noncommercial technical innovators and visionaries who have demonstrated leadership in