Williamson Resigns as Nelson/Word President

Business Wire, July 10, 1998

NASHVILLE, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 10, 1998--Byron Williamson has resigned his position as President of Nelson/Word Publishing. As a transitional step, he will continue to advise Thomas Nelson (NYSE:TNM) on specific projects as an independent consultant.

Mr. Williamson served as Executive Vice President of Word Publishing from 1988 to 1992. He became President of Word in 1992, the same year that Thomas Nelson acquired Word. Mr. Williamson then assumed leadership of the publishing arms of both Thomas Nelson and Word, which became known as Nelson/Word Publishing.

Sam Moore, Thomas Nelson's CEO, announced Mr. Williamson's departure: "Byron has been a great asset to Thomas Nelson, and we will miss his leadership. I wish him the best in all future endeavors."

"I will always love the people at Nelson/Word, just as I deeply respect their mission. I wish Sam Moore and the company `Godspeed' in all that they do," said Mr. Williamson.

There are no immediate plans to name a successor to Mr. Williamson's position. "We are blessed with a strong team of publishers and vice presidents who will step up to ensure that our publishing program will continue to excel," said Mr. Moore.

Thomas Nelson, Inc. is a leading publisher, producer and distributor of books emphasizing Christian, inspirational and family value themes, and believes it is the largest publisher of Bibles and inspirational books in the English language. The Company also designs, manufactures and markets a broad line of gift and stationery products.

Thomas Nelson's stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (TNM-NYSE).

    CONTACT:  Thomas Nelson Inc., Nashville
               Joe L. Powers, 615/902-1300
               www.thomasnelson.com