Diamond Award Recipients Announced

Please join MSAE's Board of Directors and Staff Team in congratulating the 2022 Diamond Award Recipients:

Association Executive of the Year: David Martell, CPA

MSAE's Association Executive of the Year Award honors an association Chief Staff Executive who has demonstrated remarkable association leadership, commitment to professional growth, and pride in association management. 

The 2022 Association Executive of the Year is David Martell, CPA, Executive Director of the Michigan School Business Officials (MSBO). During his 15-year tenure as leader, Dave led the association through numerous member service and support advancements, not the least of which was expanding education offerings and increasing member participation during the pandemic. His attention to detail, strong leadership style, and focus on service fostered a culture of precision that breeds success. A champion of MSAE to members and association staff, Dave has participated in many of the Society's programs over the years and encourages staff to do so. Dave leads by example, supporting the industry as well as his community through his service on numerous local, state, and national boards. 

Rising Leader of the Year: Austin Pabian

MSAE's Rising Leader Award symbolizes an exceptional commitment to growing professionally within the discipline of association management, engagement in the association community, and the promise of future accomplishments within the association management profession. 

The 2022 Rising Leader of the Year is Austin Pabian, Graphic Designer for the Michigan Association of School Boards. From the moment Austin joined MASB in 2018, his positive energy, professional curiosity, and passion for people were apparent. An enthusiastic member of MASB's Culture Committee, Austin enjoys helping colleagues and embracing new projects that advance the association. Outside of work, Austin serves in a volunteer capacity for the City of East Lansing's Art Commission and uses his love of art and design to raise funds for critical societal issues, such as victims of sexual assault. Austin is a graduate of the Academy of Association Management. 

Association Industry Partner of the Year: Debbie Denyer

MSAE's Association Industry Partner of the Year Award is presented to an MSAE partner who has shown exemplary service and support to their association clientele, MSAE, and the association sector. 

The 2022 Industry Partner of the Year is Debbie Denyer, Groups Sales Specialist for Mission Point Resort. Debbie has worked for Mission Point Resort for more than 15 years and is a beloved member of Michigan's association community. Known as a creative problem solver, association clients praise Debbie for providing excellent customer service and always going the extra mile. Debbie regularly hosts informal gatherings throughout the state where she actively connects association professionals to each other and promotes MSAE. Consistent with her servant's heart, Debbie volunteers in local and state organizations, including MPI - Michigan Chapter, SGMP - Michigan Chapter, and MSAE, as well as locally with her children's school and athletic groups.

This year's honorees will be recognized during the Diamond Awards Luncheon on September 27 at the Graduate, East Lansing. The event is sold out, but a waiting list is available.