As both are on the threshold of departing their official positions with the League, ARRL President Kay Craigie, N3KN, presented ARRL CEO David Sumner, K1ZZ, with the ARRL President’s Award. The presentation came during the ARRL Board of Directors’ 2016 Annual Meeting, under way through January 16 in Windsor, Connecticut. She also recognized two Board members for their 50 years of League membership.

The legend on the ARRL President’s Award plaque recognizes Sumner for “for lifetime dedication to advancing the art, science, and enjoyment of Amateur Radio.” Sumner announced last year that he would be stepping down at the end of May after 44 years on the ARRL Headquarters staff, most of that time as CEO. A successor has not yet been announced. Both President Craigie and CEO Sumner are attending their last ARRL Board of Directors meeting.

Licensed in 1962, Sumner has been engaged in Amateur Radio in the domestic and international arenas for most of the years since. Sometimes called “Mr Amateur Radio” in recognition of the breadth and depth of his knowledge and expertise, Sumner is an active contester and DXer.

President Craigie will hand over the gavel to incoming President Rick Roderick, K5UR, at the conclusion of the Annual Meeting. She has held the League’s top elective office since 2010.

President Craigie presented 50-year membership plaques to ARRL Pacific Division Director Bob Vallio, W6RGG, and to ARRL West Gulf Division Director Dr David Woolweaver, K5RAV.