The Insider.com

Nicki Minaj has already had a pretty stellar year and now Billboard is placing the proverbial cherry on top of her sundae by naming the rapper "Rising Star" for 2011.

• November 23, 2011Nothing's Better Than Kelly Live
• November 23, 2011Taylor and Selena Duet!
• November 22, 2011When Divas Attack!
• November 21, 2011Javier Colon Talks About What's Next for Him
• November 21, 2011First Listen: Jay-Z & Rihanna Reunite!
• November 21, 2011On the AMA Red Carpet!

MORE: Nicki and Ricky's Steamy Campaign

"I am deeply honored to be recognized by Billboard," Minaj said in a statement. "My nation of barbz and I have come a mighty long way; yet we are nowhere close to where God will take us. Sit back and enjoy the ride."

MORE: Nicki Minaj Nail Polish!

Young Money's First Lady became the first female rapper in a decade to top the Billboard 200 thanks to her stellar debut, Pink Friday, and hit single, Super Bass. That success, coupled with her wins at the American Music Awards, has propelled Minaj to new heights. She will be honored alongside Taylor Swift, who was named Billboard's Woman of the Year, at the Billboard Women in Music Event on December 2 in NYC.

MORE: Lil Kim vs. Nicki Minaj: Round 37

And Nicki made sure her fans would have just as good a day by announcing on Twitter: Pink Friday : ROMAN RELOADED will be released on Valentines Day, 2012. Heeeee's baaaacccckkkkk. Not a Re-Release | ALL new tracks | YMCMB | *salutes the nation*