Vistage Member Excellence Awards

Meet the winners

Incredible journeys. Inspirational triumphs. Vistage members know no limits.

Amid a mountain of challenges, Vistage members continue to conquer the seemingly impossible. Working harder than ever before. Leading through unprecedented times. Recommitting to the climb with integrity — day in, and day out. These Awards celebrate visionary leaders relentless in their pursuit.

In four categories, the Member Excellence Awards celebrate those steadfast in both their leadership climb and their embodiment of Vistage values. Meet the award-winners below!

1-3 YEAR TENURE

Recognize the remarkable achievement of a new member.

3+ YEAR TENURE

Celebrate a member’s enduring excellence in leadership.

10+ YEAR TENURE

Nominate a veteran member who has moved mountains.

ALL TENURE ELIGIBLE

Applaud the successes of a member leaving behind a legacy.

Current Vistage Member Excellence Award Winners

San Diego

Anthony Carolan

CEO, My Lineage

Member since

2023

Impact Award

In 2007, Anthony Carolan launched My Lineage, which specializes in personalized family heritage products for military personnel and civilians. With a balance of tradition and innovation, he grew from $6.4 million to $15.0 million in three years. Looking ahead, Anthony has an ambitious goal of reaching $30 million in revenue to continue creating opportunities for both his team and the customers they serve.

Spiro Preovolos

CEO, PenChecks Trust

Member since

2015

Leadership Award

With Spiro Preovolos at the helm driving innovation and transformation, PenChecks shatters growth year after year, with revenue skyrocketing from $24 million in 2021 to over $53 million in 2024. His secret? A laser focus on people and culture, Top Places to Work titles and a 95% employee retention rate. This isn’t just about numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s about reshaping the financial services landscape.

Nicole Dragoo

President and CEO, Chandler Asset Management, Inc.

Member since

2010

Lifetime Achievement Award

Over 23 years, Nicole Dragoo transformed Chandler Asset Management’s operations from a modest firm managing under $1 billion to one that doubles AUM every five years, now exceeding $40 billion in institutional assets. 68% employee-owned through an ESOP, Chandler’s shared ownership culture and outside board support continued growth and success.

Birmingham

Craig Krawczyk

President, Live Design Group

Member since

2021

Impact Award

Craig Krawczyk’s Live Design Group is guided by a unique mission — to create spaces for organizations that serve their communities. By following this, he doubled revenue and staff in five years, now operating in 34 states. Looking ahead, he aims to expand into designing for adults with disabilities, private schools, and social services — his company has already completed Red Cross projects in over 40 states.

Bryan Hancock

Founder, Timberchase Financial, LLC

Member since

2018

Leadership Award

At the helm, Bryan Hancock spearheaded doubling Timberchase Financial’s revenue in just four years and achieving a 30% increase in the last year alone. Yet, his company’s mission extends beyond profit, aiming to foster financial direction for everyone they encounter, in a no-nonsense way, and holding to a fiduciary standard.

Bruce Summerville

Founder and President, Inline Electric Supply Company

Member since

2012

Lifetime Achievement Award

Bruce Summerville started Inline Electric Supply Company in 1988. Since then, it has grown to 26 locations across Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. In 2012, Inline became 100% employee-owned, and Bruce joined the local Vistage Group. Now, with over a dozen in Vistage training and a new distribution center, Inline is nearing $500 million in annual revenue with the new goal being a billion annually.

Greg Brown

Chairman and CEO, BR Williams Trucking, Inc

Member since

2004

Legacy Award

After growing to $60 million in revenue and leading a financial turnaround that saw EBITDA soar from under $2 million to over $6 million in a year, Greg Brown’s journey at B R Williams Trucking took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with cancer, prompting him to sell. Rather than seeking the highest bidder, he sought a buyer who would provide the best opportunities for his company and now serves as a consultant.

Iowa/Nebraska

Jerad Hutchens

President, Summit Contracting

Member since

2022

Impact Award

Founded in 2009, Jerad joined Summit in 2015 as a team of 15, Jerad Hutchen’s Summit Contracting now leads nearly 200 employees, making the Inc. 5000 list for the second time. Also, by leveraging a carefully cultivated partnership, he led an acquisition to expand offerings across multiple states. Thinking outside of the box with his team, he created a scholarship program to attract new talent and a visa sponsorship program to get the best people from overseas.

Eric Stueckrath

President and CEO, Outlook Nebraska

Member since

2015

Leadership Award

As the CEO of a mission-driven organization, Outlook Nebraska, Eric Stueckrath has guided the company to become a pillar of support in the blind and visually impaired community, tackling everything from employment to daily needs. Looking to the future, he envisions a world where organizations like his are no longer needed because society has fully embraced individuals with blindness and visual impairments.

Boyd Ober

CEO, Leadership Resources

Member since

2010

Lifetime Achievement Award

After spending his early years in agriculture, international business, then dot com, Boyd Ober started Leadership Resources in 2003 to help leaders recognize how their past experiences shape their mindset, which influences their actions and their results. Today, the LR team has expanded to supporting organizations and leaders nationwide with proven integrated systems to help them grow their business and their leadership.

Tri-State

Beth Lachance

CEO, Global Medical VA, LLC

Member since

2023

Impact Award

As CEO of Global Medical Virtual Assistants, Beth Lachance grew her company from $46,000 in first-year revenue to over $15 million annually in just five years, boasts a team of 850 with a 4% attrition rate and serves over 1 million patients a year. What sets Global Medical apart is not just its financial success but its commitment to a culture of mutual support, communication, and professional growth.

Alain Avrillon

CEO, Ranger Industries

Member since

2018

Leadership Award

Ranger Industries began as a manufacturer of stamp pads supplied to the banking industry in the 1920s, and today has evolved into a manufacturer of art and craft supplies focused on spotting gifted designers and helping them build their brands with innovative crafting products. With a commitment to remain a US based manufacturer, CEO Alain Avrillon focuses on a positive work environment supported by automation.

Andy Zucaro

President and Founder, AZCO Corp.

Member since

2000

Lifetime Achievement Award

After graduating as a mechanical engineer, Andy Zucaro gained experience designing equipment before founding AZCO Corp. His expertise lies in solving customers’ production challenges and offering tailored solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce costs. AZCO Corp specializes in feeding, cutting, and handling flexible materials, focusing on quality and innovation. Our goal is not to be the biggest but to be the best.

Dr. Daniel Prince

CEO, Prince Sterilization Services LLC

Member since

2009-2024

Legacy Award

Founded in 2018, Prince Sterilization Services was born from a carefully planned spin-off of Gibraltar Laboratories — a family company Dr. Daniel Price sold. This venture allowed him to bring his son into a leadership role as president and a five-year plan to sell. Staying on track, the company has achieved 45-50% annual growth in top-line revenue and 45% EBITDA margin in the past three years.

Utah

Peggy McDonough

President, MHTN Architects

Member since

2023

Impact Award

At MTHN Architects, Peggy prioritizes company culture and employee wellbeing, where the workplace and policies earned both JUST and WELL certifications. Most recently, Peggy led a collaborative strategy for the completion of The Epicenter at the University of Utah, an innovative hub for social impact and community engagement. As MHTN enters its second century, Peggy ensures that it continues to leave its mark on the built environment.

Craig Peters

President, North Face Roofing, Inc

Member since

2018

Leadership Award

Since founding North Face Roofing in 2010, Craig Peters and his team have transformed the company into a shining example of how strong leadership and a people-first approach can elevate a business and its employees. In an industry often criticized for treating workers as disposable, they created programs for their team and their families, resulting in fourfold company growth and 30% increase in crew output.

Marvin Acey

Partner, Rocky Mountain Recycling

Member since

2014

Legacy Award

Starting as a truck driver earning $6 an hour, Marvin Acey worked his way up through various roles before co-founding Rocky Mountain Recycling in 1999. Under his leadership, the company grew from three founders to approximately 250 employees at its peak. In 2020, after 21 years, Marvin and his partners decided to sell Rocky Mountain to a company with about $4 billion in annual revenues.

Chicago

Anita Andrews-Hutchinson

Co-founder and Chief Growth Officer, It Takes A Village Family of Schools

Member since

2023

Impact Award

Under Anita Andrews-Hutchinson’s leadership as co-founder, It Takes A Village Family of Schools has recently doubled its capacity, boasting six early learning centers, two elementary schools, and a sprawling 9.1-acre campus. Looking ahead, she and her team plan to leverage community partnerships to expand to serve 5,000 annually and scale their internal talent pipeline.

Matt Prince

CEO, Riley Construction

Member since

2015

Leadership Award

As the first non-Riley family member to become CEO, Matt Prince has championed a philosophy at Riley Construction that prioritizes excellence in construction and well-being. Throughout his tenure, he initiated the company’s lean journey, emphasizing respect for people and enhancement of processes, which yielded an increase in net profit by 25% and positive feedback from clients, architects, and subcontractors.

Dan Dickinson

Chairman and CEO, G.A.S. Capital Inc

Member since

2003

Lifetime Achievement Award

Starting G.A.S. in 1977 when he was 26, Dan Dickinson’s strategic leadership guided the company to over $1.4 billion in selling and leasing commercial and corporate aircraft and engines. He also led the creation of seven successful companies under his leadership, each addressing unique niches within the aviation sector and even venturing into power generation systems.

Charlotte

Hadley Perry Pacheco

President and CEO, Perry’s Diamonds & Estate Jewelry

Member since

2021

Impact Award

As the CEO of her family’s business, Perry’s Diamonds & Estate Jewelry, Hadley Perry Pacheco led accelerated growth, from $4 million to surpassing $10 million in annual revenue over seven years and boosting the company’s gross profit margin by a whopping 7%. Her long-term vision is as clear as a flawless gem. She’s setting ambitious growth targets and laying the groundwork for future generations.

Robert Miller

President, RAM Pavement Service

Member since

2017

Leadership Award

In 2004, with two loyal employees and a truckload of determination, Robert Miller set out to conquer the paving world. In its first year, his company, RAM Pavement, generated a modest $250,000 in revenue — fast forward two decades, and the company now boasts an impressive annual revenue of nearly $22 million. He projects RAM could reach $125 million in revenue within the next two decades.

Carl Howard

President and COO, Autobell Car Wash Inc.

Member since

2014

Lifetime Achievement Award

Carl Howard drives innovation at Autobell Car Wash, leading efforts like app development for seamless subscription services and changing the operating platform during the pandemic. His commitment to the community shines through. During his leadership, he has helped nonprofits raise over $5 million and awarded over $1.7 million in scholarships, positively impacting communities throughout the Autobell footprint.

Martha Percival Brown

Former CEO, Tipperary Sales Inc., Owner and Operator, Martha Brown Coaching

Member since

2015 – 2023

Legacy Award

From the outset, Martha Percival Brown had a clear vision: to lead Tipperary Sales for about 10 years before pursuing new ventures. But it wasn’t just about personal goals; it was about ensuring the company’s continued success. Martha strategically turned over key areas of the business — sales, marketing, and merchandising — to her successor, then added operations and finance later.

St. Louis

Tom Messner

President and CEO, Spartan Light Metal Products

Member since

2022

Impact Award

As CEO of Spartan Light Metal Products, Tom has seamlessly integrated his commercial and shop floor expertise, advancing new technologies and talent development while preserving the legacy of our founder, Henry Jubel. His vision for Spartan’s future includes robust growth in both top-line and bottom-line performance, driven by innovation and a commitment to excellence.

Lus Haberberger

CEO, Luzco Technologies, LLC

Member since

2019

Leadership Award

Guided by Lus Haberberger’s vision, Luzco stands out for its people-centric culture and rapid growth. Under her guidance, revenue skyrocketed by 337% over the last couple of years, earning recognition as one of the top 10 fastest-growing private companies in the area for two consecutive years. On top of that, an impressive 67% of her workforce comes from diverse backgrounds, with 28 different nationalities represented.

Jim Maher

CEO and Founder, Archford

Member since

2003

Lifetime Achievement Award

From humble beginnings, Archford now serves mostly-family businesses, 1200+ families, and manages more than $1 billion in assets, with Jim Maher leading the way. In business, Jim led revenue growth of 127% in the last five years. In philanthropy, he and wife Jenny developed Archford Angels, a program where employees donate to a nonprofit of their choice, generating over $1 million for 82+ community nonprofits.

David Maher

Managing Shareholder, Maher & Company PC

Member since

2015-2023

Legacy Award

David Maher has led a business exit at Maher & Company that puts people before profits. While many CPA firms are being acquired by larger entities, he strategically chose a unique path — an internal transition to five younger shareholders. Maintaining consistency for both employees and clients took precedence over potential financial gains from an external sale despite multiple offers from larger firms.

Colorado

Jacob Nuechterlein

President and CEO, Elementum 3D

Member since

2022

Impact Award

At the intersection of material science and additive manufacturing, Jacob Nuechterlein has carved out a unique niche with his company, Elementum. Leveraging a generous $100,000 investment, he identified a significant gap in the material science market. Today, he boasts an impressive client list that includes Formula 1 racing teams, NASA, and the Department of Defense.

Alexa Cataldo

CEO, Sample Supports, LLC

Member since

2018

Leadership Award

Alexa Cataldo, alongside her dedicated team, has grown Sample Supports, a developmental disabilities service provider, from 50 individuals in services to 500 over ten years. Under her leadership, they’ve maintained low turnover rates in a high-burnout industry. Alexa’s goal is to expand their work with step-down placements, serving those often deemed too challenging for traditional community settings.

Dr. Carl Clark

President and CEO, WellPower

Member since

2003

Lifetime Achievement Award

Under Dr. Carl Clark’s leadership since 2000, WellPower has become a beacon of innovation in community mental health. He’s grown the organization from $18 million to $150 million and his team from 200 to over 1,400. On top of that, he’s instrumental in reducing unnecessary arrests in behavioral health or addiction issues, helping address food insecurity and providing a living wage for all staff.

Randy Benedict

President and CEO, Professional Restoration

Member since

2006

Legacy Award

When Randy founded his restoration company over 30 years ago with just $10,000 in a checking account, he never imagined he’d one day sell Professional Restoration in a wildly successful transaction. He found a national restoration firm that aligned with his vision, and Randy’s business was ready to sell. By letting loose and relinquishing control, Randy found a strong leadership team that was an integral part of bringing the transaction to fruition.

Orange County

Pranav Dalal

Founder, CEO and Chief Disruption Officer, Office Beacon

Member since

2023

Impact Award

Established in 2001, Pranav Dalal’s Office Beacon has grown from a nascent remote staffing company to one of the largest privately held firms. Before “remote staffing” was common, Pranav began offering services from India, then expanded operations to include the Philippines, Mexico, and, most recently, South Africa. Today, his company is on track to grow over 23% in revenue in the next year.

Davey Glantz

Principal, Glantz Supply

Member since

2002

Leadership Award

As the leader of a fourth-generation family business founded in 1906, Davey Glantz has successfully blended traditional values with modern innovation. Under his leadership, the company has flourished, now boasting 27 locations coast-to-coast and employing over 300 people, most recently opening two locations this past year. Looking ahead, he wants to continue to invest in his team and new technologies.

Jennifer Dietz

President, Financial Statement Services Inc.

Member since

2013

Lifetime Achievement Award

When FSSI’s owners looked at succession planning, Jennifer dismissed the option of selling to an outsider.  In 2021, Jennifer spearheaded an ESOP initiative, making all FSSI’s employees owners, sharing in the company’s success and the opportunity to build wealth.  Employees have responded with record-breaking productivity and profitability.  With eyes on the future, Jennifer looks forward to watching her team grow and lead the company.

John Rochford

Chairman, Snyder Langston

Member since

2003

Legacy Award

John Rochford and his team at Synder Langston invested heavily in developing their young leaders, driven by a desire to preserve the company’s legacy and culture, rather than pursuing an external sale or merger. Even John’s exit strategy has been focused on the meticulous preparation of the next generation of leaders to take the company to the next level. This December he will finalize his exit from his $400 million company.

Minneapolis/St. Paul

Aaron Sakaria

CEO, Fresh Industries Limited

Member since

2023

Impact Award

Aaron Sakaria began his journey 15 years ago in Shanghai, China, where he started a home furnishings trading company. Today, Fresh has evolved into a multifaceted enterprise with a global reach and a commitment to revitalizing small-town America. On top of this, since 2019 the company has seen a 257% growth in revenue and EBITDA growth from 1% to 12% under Aaron’s leadership.

Brooke Lee

CEO, Anchor Paper Company

Member since

2015

Leadership Award

Brooke Lee is the CEO of Anchor Paper Company, representing the fourth generation of family leadership in a hybrid ESOP business. Under her leadership, 100-year-old Anchor Paper has grown by 31% over the past 10 years despite the declining demand for paper products. She also led the company to secure a significant national account, expanding its reach beyond its traditional Midwest base.

Dale Andersen

President and CEO, Delkor Systems, Inc.

Member since

2001

Lifetime Achievement Award

Innovation is at the heart of Dale Andersen’s leadership philosophy, and his company Delkor Systems. Over the past 25 years the team at Delkor has created what is now recognized as the most advanced U.S. manufacturers of packaging machinery.  Leaning on his out-of-the-box POV he’s grown his team from 10 to 350 and increased revenue from $5 million to $150 million annually.

Jim Ginther

Owner and CEO, United States Compliance LLC

Member since

2014

Legacy Award

Over a nine-year period, Jim Ginther’s family-owned company achieved a fourfold increase in top-line revenue and a tenfold increase in bottom-line profits — attracting potential buyers. A successful transaction in 2023 allowed other family owners to exit the business, Jim staying on to lead the company into its next growth phase, which he has termed “USC 3.0.”

Atlanta

Michelle W. Johnson

Partner, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP

Member since

2023

Impact Award

In the demanding field of employment law, Michelle Johnson leads with integrity and decisiveness. Under her leadership, Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough’s labor and employment practice has expanded in size and influence, setting new industry standards for excellence. Michelle is dedicated to going beyond the basics of legal expertise, offering tailored advice for optimal outcomes for her clients.

Robert Isherwood

CEO, AMBAC International

Member since

2017

Leadership Award

When Robert transitioned from CTO of a marketing firm to CEO of AMBAC International, a 100-year-old precision manufacturing company, it marked a key career move. His leadership blends a deep connection to the shop floor with a commitment to modernizing while preserving AMBAC’s legacy. As AMBAC grows, Robert plans to shift from operations to a consultative role, continuing to grow innovative companies and developing teams.

Sean Taylor

CEO, Smith + Howard Advisory, LLC

Member since

2000

Lifetime Achievement Award

Sean Taylor joined Smith + Howard as an intern 31 years ago, and under his leadership, the firm has transformed from a small team of 24 to an influential firm of over 300 employees. One of Sean’s greatest achievements during his tenure is driving strategic growth through acquisitions. Over the past year, he led four acquisitions, significantly expanding professional service capabilities and his client base.

Michael Barker

Former President and CEO, House of Cheatham, Inc.

Member since

2015-2024

Legacy Award

Taking over House of Cheatham from his father-in-law in 1996, Mike transformed the family-owned hair care company from under $7 million to a successful $110 million sale in December 2021. He expanded its product line, notably with Aunt Jackie’s, and demonstrated his commitment through annual bonuses, a $3 million gift to Clark Atlanta University, and anonymous scholarships. Mike now serves on various boards, collaborates with his brothers, and cherishes time with his grandchildren.

Prior award-winners