From OIA:
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) presented Michael Collins, the former vice president of public affairs for REI, with the prestigious OIA Chairman’s Award last evening at the Capitol Summit. The award was presented by OIA board chair, Jennifer Mull and the evening included a surprise appearance by Interior Secretary Sally Jewell.
“Mike has been an invaluable industry advisor and leader,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, President and CEO, Outdoor Industry Association. “Mike helped build OIA’s reputation in Washington D.C. and represented the industry in high profile initiatives such as Secretary Kempthorne’s Centennial Challenge Initiative, The Western Governors Association Recreation Task Force and Outdoor Alliance for Kids. More importantly, he played a key role in crafting and funding the national economic argument for the outdoor industry that has resulted in OIA’s two national recreation economy reports and increased recognition from policymakers nationwide of the true value of outdoor recreation.”
The OIA Chairman’s Award is granted to individuals who have provided exemplary contributions to the outdoor industry. Rarely presented, the Chairman’s Award is given to an OIA member who demonstrates unprecedented leadership, commitment and inspiration during service by the OIA Board of Directors.
Collins was recognized for his strong support and contributions to OIA’s advocacy efforts, including participation on every OIA Government Affairs advisory council. He also served on the Outdoor Alliance board of directors, a growing coalition of industry user groups.
Collins joins the ranks of past Chairman’s Award recipients, including:
Jamie Bainbridge, nau
Betsy Blaisdell, formerly of Timberland
Steve Barker, Eagle Creek
Jill Dumain, Patagonia
Kevin Myette, formerly of REI
Myrna Johnson, formerly of OIA
Peter Metcalf, Black Diamond Equipment
Terri Perlman, REI
Amy Roberts, formerly of OIA
Greg Scott, Mountain Equipment Co-op
Jay Steere, Timberland
Mike Wallenfells, formerly of Mountain Hardwear
Skip Yowell, JanSport
Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, CO, with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.
