Since it was established in 1992, this award has been given to recognize the efforts of individuals who have faithfully and generously contributed their time and talents on a volunteer basis to further the efforts of the America East Operations and Technology Conference. An America East Awards Committee selects the winner from those who volunteer and serve this event.

Formerly the America East Distinguished Service Award, this award was renamed in 2006 to honor the late Edward Thomas. Thomas was a long-time America East Committee member, Print Quality Contest consultant and the 1986 America East Committee chairman, as well as a recipient of the award in 1995.

Due to its renaming, this award was not given in 2006, but will once again be awarded in 2007, this time as the Edward Thomas Distinguished Service Memorial Award.

Contact VP of Association Services Melinda Condon, (717) 703-3070, with questions or concerns.

2005 Distinguished Service Award winner: Tom Northrop, publisher, (Washington, Pa.) Observer-Reporter