2008-05-12 22:49:02 -

www.nationwide.com/nw/index.htm - Nationwide Bob Cunningham, 614-249-3091 Cunninb1@nationwide.com OR For The Smiley Group, Inc. Jenny Park, 415-867-1166 jpark@fenton.com Bringing a message to help people take control of their life, national talk show host Tavis Smiley will join Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company (Nationwide) in a community forum on May 17. The event is part of

a five-city tour with the first stop in Columbus and part of his message around economic empowerment and financial literacy.

In addition to the remarks by Tavis, there will workshops on insurance, financial planning and recruitment. The workshops will help consumers better understand the role insurance plays in every household; the need for strong financial planning, regardless of income-level; and other topics to protect their future.

Tavis will be available for interviews prior to his general public speech at 10 a.m. -0- When: Saturday, May 17, 2008 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Where: Hyatt Regency Hotel Private Dining Room 2nd floor What: Smiley will bring a message to engage audiences in respectful dialogue addressing today's most pressing issues and encouraging an attitude of personal responsibility.

About Nationwide

Nationwide, based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the world, with more than $161 billion in assets. Nationwide ranks #108 on the Fortune 500 list. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, motorcycle, boat, homeowners, life, farm, commercial insurance, administrative services, annuities, mortgages, mutual funds, pensions, long-term savings plans and health and productivity services. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

Nationwide, the Nationwide Framemark and On Your Side are federally registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

Community Organizations and General Public Engage in Dialogue to
Help People Take Control of Their Financial Future