DALLAS, Apr 29, 2005/ MF/ --- One of the most enduring symbols of American culture is the pink Cadillac. Immortalized in song and on the silver screen, this iconic automobile is often identified with larger-than-life figures like Elvis Presley, Bruce Springsteen and Aretha Franklin. The car also represents success for millions of women who have made their mark in the traditionally male-dominated business world.

Since 1969, vehicles have been at the center of the renowned Mary Kay independent sales force incentive program - with the pink Cadillac representing the top prize for their achievements and sales success. The program celebrated an important milestone recently, when LaChelle Seleski of Hastings, Minn. was named the 100,000th person to qualify for a Mary Kay career car.

"The Mary Kay Career Car Program provides the independent sales force the opportunity to earn the use of a visible symbol of success," said Gary Jinks, senior vice president of sales at Mary Kay Inc. "Each car in this renowned incentive program reflects the hard work, determination and professionalism of our independent sales force."

Under the program, eligible independent beauty consultants earn the use of a career car through outstanding sales achievements by not only their efforts, but also those of their entire team. Over the years, the fleet of automobiles available through the program has grown to include other special models, like the Pontiac Grand Prix and the newest addition, the Pontiac Vibe, a crossover vehicle that boasts the gas efficiency of a car with the styling and versatility of a sports utility vehicle.

The top reward has also undergone a metamorphosis since the program first debuted. When the first pink Cadillacs were awarded, the cars were painted in Mary Kay's signature color to match their makeup compacts. Today, General Motors produces the Cadillacs in a "pearlized" pink color exclusively for the company.

"Mary Kay and General Motors have partnered for 36 years to reward sales success with the world's automotive standard of excellence. It's thrilling to celebrate this milestone by sharing the excitement of naming the 100,000th Mary Kay career car qualifier," says Jay Spenchian, director of Cadillac marketing for General Motors. "The pinnacle of success at Mary Kay is the legendary pink Cadillac and we are proud to be the makers of the iconic symbol of achievement and recognition."

While some of the vehicles may have changed over time, the ultimate goal of Mary Kay's incentive program has not. More than 1.3 million women in well over 30 different markets worldwide are currently steering their careers in the direction of self-employment as independent businesswomen for the company. While the money, flexibility and business ownership are important, the chance to earn a stylish ride towards upward mobility is also an important incentive.