LANCASTER, PA -- Armstrong World Industries, Inc. announced today that Michael D. Lockhart will be stepping down as the Company's chief executive and president, and as chairman of the board and a director, effective February 28, 2010. The Board has elected James J. O'Connor, currently the Company's lead independent director, as chairman. Mr. O'Connor will head a search committee to identify and evaluate candidates for the CEO position. The Board expects to name an interim president in the near future.

The Board of Directors said in a statement: "Armstrong has accomplished a great deal since Mike became CEO in 2000. Under his leadership, the Company resolved its asbestos liability and emerged successfully from bankruptcy reorganization. The Company's North American floor business regained its position as an industry leader through enhanced product quality and design, and increased investment in the brand. Thanks to Mike's prudent management during the sharp economic downturn of the last two years, Armstrong has remained profitable and has grown free cash flow. The Company will reap the benefits of his stewardship. We thank Mike for his important contributions and wish him all the best for the future."

Mr. Lockhart added, "I have been proud to serve as Armstrong's CEO for nearly 10 years. I want to thank the thousands of people who have worked together to successfully implement the changes necessary to make this a better company. Armstrong is about to enter a period that has the potential to be the best in its long history. The prospects for the Company are genuinely exciting and I wish my colleagues continued success."

Mr. O'Connor, incoming chairman of the board, said "The Board and Mike agreed that this was the right time to look for new leadership to take the Company into its next phase of growth. Operationally, the Company is performing well with a strong team of senior leaders, well-known, trusted brands, a solid balance sheet, and dedicated employees. While we continue to expect 2010 to be challenging, we have complete confidence in the Company's senior management team and their ability to continue to deliver great products and quality service to our customers and distributors around the world."