Madonna is named Billboard's 2016 Woman of the Year

NEW YORK, Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Singer, songwriter, activist and actress Madonna has been named Billboard magazine's 2016 Woman of the Year.

The 58-year-old entertainer is scheduled to collect the honor at the 11th annual Women in Music event on Dec. 9 in New York City. The star-studded ceremony will air on Lifetime on Dec. 12.

"Madonna is one of a miniscule number of super-artists whose influence and career transcend music," Janice Min -- president and chief creative officer of The Hollywood Reporter-Billboard Media Group -- said in a statement. "With her creative vision, relentless innovation, and dedication to philanthropic causes, she is an inspiration to hundreds of millions of people around the world, all while shattering every career record out there. She is an important feminist on top of that, a one-of-a-kind artist who's used her influence to change the conversation around women, sexuality and equal rights."

"Madonna is an extraordinary artist, emblematic of the strength, courage and resilience that Lifetime celebrates, and we are thrilled to offer our platform to recognize her in every way she deserves," added Liz Gateley, executive vice president and head of programing for Lifetime. "We're delighted to continue our partnership with Billboard and bring this powerful event directly to our viewers."