STAMFORD, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 17, 2000--Michael J. Critelli, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Pitney Bowes Inc, (NYSE: PBI), was named Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the National Urban League (NUL) during its annual conference in New York.

As a premiere social service and civil rights organization in America, the league implements its mission through advocacy, bridge building, program services and research. Critelli's appointment is an extension of his pro-active efforts and commitment to foster diversity and improve inner-city development.

"Mr. Critelli's efforts in Diversity and experience with community development have made him an exceptional advocate for the League", says Hugh B Price, president, National Urban League. "As CEO of Pitney Bowes, his leadership and active involvement has consistently placed Pitney Bowes among the best in the country for developing and recognizing Diversity."

Pitney Bowes also played a key role during the conference, as the sponsor of the National Urban League Young Professionals' Dialogue and Reception, now in its third year. Mr. Critelli said, "Pitney Bowes is the founding sponsor of the dialogue. We felt it was critical to help provide a forum for professionals to discuss important issues as they embark on their careers. I'm thrilled that as Vice Chairman of the NUL Board of Trustees, I'll be able to be further involved with the Urban League."

Karla Ballard, President, National Urban League Young Professionals, presided over a panel that included Atallah Shabazz, world renowned lecturer, writer and daughter of Malcolm X, Melanie Campbell, Executive Director, National Coalition on Black Voter Participation and Hon. John Wiley Price, Commissioner, County of Dallas. During this inspiring event, panelists and audience members discussed "Engaging Young Professionals in Social Activism," and challenged each other to do more to ensure that young people are involved in changing their communities.

The National Urban League is a nonprofit organization that provides direct services and functions as an advocate to generate policy reforms that empower African-Americans to achieve economic, academic and racial equality.

Pitney Bowes Inc. is a $4.4 billion global provider of informed mail and messaging management. For more information about the company, please visit our website at www.pitneybowes.com.

Photo Available: Hugh B. Price, President, National Urban League and Michael J. Critelli, Chairman & CEO, Pitney Bowes Inc., and Vice Chairman, NUL Board. Please send photo requests to: tessiech@pb.com

CONTACT: Pitney Bowes Inc.

             Christopher Tessier
             Manager, Media Relations
             203 351-7210
             tessiech@pb.com