Last year, I started searching for heroic CEOs. Like the rest of America, I both cursed and laughed at the long list of business leaders who lived large and lined their pockets, while their companies and the economy fell apart around them.

In March 2009, I began profiling executives whose work tells a different story. The monthly Ribby Award goes to a business leader who steps out of the executive suite, away from armies of assistants and sycophants, to personally market, sell, promote or do whatever else is necessary to help his team succeed. Successful leaders always know what it is like for their employees in the trenches. In challenging times, the boss has to join them. The Ribby showcases those who are getting their hands dirty.

Atlanta home builder John Wieland wins 1st Ribby March 17, 2009

Paul Levy of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center inspires execs, employees to share sacrifice and wins Ribby Award April 20, 2009

Greg Blount gets on the phone to help borrowers and credit union employees, earns Ribby Award for May May 19, 2009

CEO in Sweden fires himself and not lay off employees, wins Ribby Award July 6, 2009

Japan Airlines President & CEO wins Ribby Award August 6, 2009

Jack Stack wins Ribby Award for creating jobs during the recession September 14, 2009

Successful but penniless CEO gets November Ribby Award November 5, 2009