2024 IRF Service Award Winners Announced

The 2024 IRF Service Awards were announced during the opening general session of the 2024 Invitational. From serving on Boards and Committees to participating in research studies to amplifying our messages on social media, volunteers are critical to the impact the IRF is making on the incentives industry. The IRF Service Awards help us recognize and celebrate the innovative work of our volunteers.

Bich-Lien Kaldahl received the Outstanding Service to IRF Award. This award honors a member of the incentives community who has made a significant impact on the trajectory of the IRF over a long period of time. Recipients of this award have demonstrated stewardship, strategic guidance, and selfless dedication to the organization. The award was presented by Susan Adams, IRF Board Chair and Kelsy Nicol, Volunteer Management Committee Chair.

Stephanie Harris, IRF President said, “This year, we are recognizing an individual who has held multiple roles during her time at the IRF. She began serving on the board in 2014 and serves as an advisor still today. She has been instrumental in the success of our auctions by bringing insight to the air category – an industry she was in for more than 30 years. She remains an involved contributor serving as board air advisor, and part of our sponsorship committee. She is an industry legend, a golf fiend, and a true globetrotter.”

The recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award was Joe Fijol, Founder & Principal, Ethos Event Collective. This award recognizes individuals who have gone above and beyond in their volunteer capacity to support and advance the mission of the IRF over the past year. The award was presented by IRF Sponsor Development Committee Chair Karen Devine and Co-Chair Rutger Hoorn.

“Joe has been part of the sponsorship committee for several years. He is a major IRF supporter. He served on the sub-committee working to overhaul the IRF sponsorship process, has volunteered to speak on webinars and at the Invitational. Joe is a strong voice in committee meetings, supports new ideas, and is a positive voice for the IRF in the industry,” said Kelsy Nicol.