NAFA Presents Distinguished Service Award To Former Executive Director, Dave Lefever

A familiar face to many returned to NAFA's annual conference for the first time in more than five years to receive the Association's coveted Distinguished Service Award. Dave Lefever, who as NAFA's Executive Director led the Association for two decades during an important era in fleet management, was honored on April 9 during NAFA's Annual Business Meeting.

Outgoing NAFA President Christopher Amos, CAFM, who had submitted Lefever's name for award consideration, presented Lefever with the award. The Distinguished Service Award represents the Association's highest form of recognition; the award is bestowed upon those with exemplary professional and personal contributions to the industry, society, and/or community.

"I had intended originally to nominate him for Honorary Membership, but in reading the definitions of the national awards it was clear to me that his contributions met the standard of 'exceptional circumstances' for the Distinguished Service Award," said Amos.

During Lefever's time with NAFA, the Association changed dramatically, mirroring the business world around them. Some of his tasks included helping fleet administrators persuade their bosses to purchase computers for the fleet shop and introducing the world of the Internet.

"I had the privilege to be with you during exciting and turbulent times," said Lefever upon accepting the award. "We were involved in battling alternative fuel mandates that could have put an end to corporate fleets and created incredible organizational burdens for government fleets. My most vivid memories are the ways that NAFA Members supported this profession and each other. I've worked for other associations. They are not the community that NAFA is. This community is marked by the generous giving of thousands of volunteers. You set the priorities, you guide the chapters, and you teach each other. You help each other find jobs – day after day, year after year, decade after decade. It's a glorious history."

Lefever retired as NAFA's Executive Director in 2005 while struggling with a serious health issue. He was replaced by Phil Russo, CAE, NAFA's current Executive Director.

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