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Alan J. Freedman Memorial Leadership Award

Recipients of the NMMA Freedman Award are individuals who, in the course of their careers, have made outstanding contributions to the marine accessories industry through leadership, creativity, and personal motivation.  The following are the categories for consideration:
• Marine aftermarket or OEM manufacturer
• Marine representative
• Member of a marine-focused media
• Boat dealer
• Marine distributor
• Marine trade association staff person

NOMINATION PROCESS

Nominations to the 2025 awards program are open through December 6, 2024.

To nominate a worthy industry leader:

  • Nominators must belong to a member company and be in good standing with NMMA.
  • Submit the official nomination form.
  • Submit supporting material to enhance the nomination. Supporting material includes, but not limited to; an enhanced career timeline and accomplishments, articles about the nominee and letters of support. Supporting materials should be received digitally through the provided file share link by December 13, 2024.

Nominators will be notified of award status in January 2025.

AWARDS PRESENTATION

The 2025 Alan J. Freedman Award will be presented during the Miami Industry Breakfast at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Tickets are required for entry.

QUESTIONS

Contact: Rachel Harmon
Email: [email protected]

AWARD RECIPIENTS

View past recipients of this prestigious award.

2002: Lew Haeck, Attwood Corporation

Lew Haeck

Mr. Haeck has served two terms for a total of six years on NMMA’s Accessory Manufacturer Division Board along with chairing that Board for two years. He also has served on the NMMA Board and was NMMA Chairman from 1995 to 1997.

During his time as Chairman, he was instrumental in bringing about the new consolidated format of the three divisions that make up NMMA.

Lew has been a stalwart supporter of the boating industry, the accessory business and NMMA since arriving at Attwood in the sales and marketing area. He became Vice President of Operations in 1979, Senior Vice President in 1990, President and COO in 1993, and President and CEO in 1999.