Each year, the National Association for Surface Finishing (NASF) recognizes members who stand out amongst their peers for their contributions to the finishing industry on the local and national levels. Although SUR/FIN 2020 in Atlanta was postponed due to COVID-19, the Awards Committee of NASF felt it important to still recognize these deserving members and will be presented their physical awards during SUR/FIN 2021 in Detroit, Michigan.
NASF Presidential Award: William Saas
The Presidential Award focuses on extraordinary service by an NASF member who is actively participating on the national level, going above and beyond the capacity of most. Bill Saas is an industry icon and has a long history of significant contributions to the surface finishing industry, including serving as President of the Metal Finishing Suppliers Association (MFSA) and long-standing Chair of the Government Advisory Committee (GAC). He continues to be an active member of the NASF Ohio Chapter and instrumental on the NASF Suppliers Committee.
Silvio C. Taormina Memorial Award: Rebecca Bennett
The Silvio C. Taormina Memorial Award is an honor given to an individual who has performed outstanding service to the finishing industry over many years. Rebecca Bennett of Precision Plating has participated in NASF through the years in numerous capacities: as a member and leader of the Chicago Midwest Chapter, member of the NASF national Board of Directors, and NASF Government Advisory Committee. Her participation and contributions to the NASF/AESF Foundation has been and will be felt for many years to come.
August P. Munning Award: Brad Durkin
The August P. Munning Award is given to a member who has significantly contributed to the future well-being of the NASF/AESF Foundation and exemplifies the traits of August P. Munning. Brad Durkin of Coventya has been in the metal finishing industry for more than 30 years, many of which serving as Chair of the NASF Technical Advisory Committee charged with crafting the Technical Program for the annual SUR/FIN Conferences. His enthusiasm has inspired committee members to excel in organizing and executing a world-class conference for the finishing industry.
Scientific Achievement Award: Dr. Jude M. Runge
The Scientific Achievement Award recognizes a person who has contributed to the advancement of the theory and practice of electroplating, metal finishing and the allied arts; raised the quality of processes and products; enhanced the dignity and status of the procession; or has been involved in a combination of these efforts. Dr. Jude Mary Runge of Comprehensive Metallurgical Consulting, has more than 35 years industrial, governmental and academic experience specializing in metallurgical engineering and interfacial science, specifically in electrochemical processes, failure analysis and manufacturing processes. She is also author of The Metallurgy of Anodizing Aluminum, published by Springer Nature in April, 2018.
Awards of Merit
The Award of Merit is given to members of the industry who show meritorious service and achievement on the local and national level.
- Tricia Hale – For her service at American Plating Power and effort planning the annual Florida Finishers Conference.
- Tom Laken III – For his service as President of the Milwaukee Chapter of NASF and keeping the local Chapter alive.
- Mark Norton – For his support of the local Michigan Chapter of NASF and time as Chair of the SUR/FIN Committee.
- Ross Tiamson – For his strong support of NASF through the decades and participation on the local and national level.
2020 AESF Fellows
The NASF Fellow award recognizes outstanding service, contribution and long-standing commitment to the NASF/AESF for the advancement of the best interests of the surface finishing industry. The NASF Fellow honor is modeled after the AESF Fellow, which was established in 1997.
- Waasy Boddison
- Brad Durkin
- Steve Smith
- William Nebielo
