2026 IRF Service Award Winners Announced

The 2026 IRF Service Awards were presented during the opening general session of the 2026 Invitational. From serving on boards and committees to contributing to research and amplifying IRF messages across social media, volunteers play a vital role in advancing the Foundation’s impact on the incentives industry. The Service Awards recognize and celebrate the creativity, commitment, and leadership of these outstanding volunteers.

Mike May, Executive Chairman at Brightspot Incentives & Events, 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.

Mike served on the IRF Board of Trustees for seven years. During the time of his service, Mike was a strong supporter of the organization, supporting research, chairing committees, and serving on the Executive Committee. During his service as Chair, worked to steer the organization during a time of interim leadership. He gave extra hours to the search for a new President.

“When I took on the role of IRF President, Mike was an inspirational leader and knowledgeable resource. He helped guide the onboarding and upskilling to ensure continuity of service, and strong forward motion,” said Stephanie Harris, IRF President. “But Mike’s work during unusual circumstances didn’t end there. Mike also served as Immediate Past Chair on the Executive Committee during the 2020 year where IRF was unable to hold an Invitational while navigating the pandemic. His guidance during that time was invaluable.”

Volunteer of the Year Award

Janelle Jones, Emergent Holdings/AF Group, was recognized as the 2026 IRF Volunteer of the Year. Janelle served on the Content & Communications Committee in 2025 and is serving on the Next Gen Education Committee in 2026.

Stephanie commented, “Janelle was nominated for her contributions and insights on every call, delivered with “unmatched” energy and enthusiasm. She volunteered to participate in crossover projects with the Research Committee and was among the first to secure and execute an in-class presentation for the Future of Workforce Initiative. She continues to be a champion for that initiative, completing multiple in-class presentations.”