Nov. 4, 2008

Established in 1993, the National Association of Athletic Development Directors (NAADD) provides educational and networking opportunities for individuals with a mutual interest in collegiate athletics development. The organization now boasts nearly 700 active members representing Divisions I, II and III, the NAIA and junior/community colleges and universities.

NAADD is currently seeking nominations for its 2008-09 Donor, Volunteer and Fundraiser of the Year awards. Recipients from both the college and university divisions will be selected. Additionally, NAADD requests nominations for the Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a development professional for his/her outstanding service to their institution and the development industry.

"Having NAADD recognize Marty Zlotnik as the 2007-08 Volunteer of the Year provided UBC athletics the opportunity to not only acknowledge his efforts, but also to show the university community that athletics was making a significant difference in the lives of students and that supporters of the university found value in contributing to their alma mater in ways that played to their interests," said Steve Tuckwood, associate athletics director for development at the University of British Columbia. "Marty was so touched to be recognized for something that comes naturally to him. The nomination took me just 20 minutes to complete, but its significance will resonate with Marty for years."

Michael Middleton, the executive director of Brigham Young University's Cougar Club echoes the sentiment, saying, "The decision to nominate one of our key volunteers for one of NAADD's national awards is one that I will never regret. Mitch McCuistion has been part of our Cougar House program for eight years now - from helping establish the program to reaching the million-dollar mark in gifts - I know it meant a lot to him that our athletics department wanted to recognize his efforts. While the privilege of presenting Mr. McCuistion in Dallas where he was honored as NAADD's 2008 University Division Volunteer of the Year was a highlight in my career, more importantly I know that this recognition will always be a memorable part of Mr. McCuistion's on-going relationship with Brigham Young University."

We encourage you to take advantage of this unique stewardship opportunity by nominating worthy candidates for recognition by NAADD. Nominations must be made online at www.naadd.com and include detailed information regarding the nominee's philanthropic and/or volunteer contributions and impact to the institution. The awards criteria is listed below:

Donor of the Year Award:

Nominees must have demonstrated significant contributions to college athletics through philanthropic support.

Recognition of a donor need not be limited to this year, but can include significant involvement over several years.

Volunteer of the Year Award:

Nominees must have demonstrated significant contributions of time and energy toward raising monies for college athletics.

Recognition of a volunteer need not be limited to this year, but can include significant involvement over several years.

Fundraiser of the Year Award:

Nominees must have demonstrated significant achievement in athletics fundraising.

The accomplishments of the nominee should recognize achievements in the current year, as well as over the professional career of the individual.

Nominees must be the head of athletics fundraising at the institution.

Nominees must be current NAADD members.

Athletics directors are not eligible for this award.

All nominations are due in the NAADD office by January 9, 2009. Winners will be recognized at NAADD's 16th Annual Convention, June 18-21, 2009, at the Orlando World Center Marriott Resort. Click here to nominate a deserving individual for a NAADD award.

Please contact Jason Galaska, NAADD Administrator, at 440-892-4000 or jgalaska@nacda.com with any questions.

We look forward to receiving your nominations!

Marija Pientka
Associate Athletics Director Development
University of Wisconsin
NAADD Third Vice President