Distelhorst is an award-winning Certified Association Executive and former Chairman of the Board of the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE), and he brings an extensive background in management to the MIA. He spent 18 years at the National Association of College Stores (NACS), retiring as chief executive in 1998. He was also a vice president of Smith, Bucklin & Associates, the world's largest association management firm. He served on the ASAE board for 16 years and chaired the ASAE Foundation. He is a former President and CEO of the Convention Industry Council, and prior to joining the MIA, he served as President and COO of RecTech Association Directories, Inc.

Distelhorst's appointment coincides with the relocation of the MIA's headquarters from Columbus, OH, to Cleveland, and the launch of several new initiatives to expand the association's membership and influence. "As we work to enhance member services and programs and increase the MIA's visibility and influence in the consumer marketplace, we are confident that the MIA and its members will benefit greatly from Gary's rich experience and leadership qualities," said MIA President Robert Stasswender, President of Southwest Marble & Granite Works, Inc. "His skills, ideas and commitment to success for those in the natural stone industry will prove invaluable in helping us communicate to architects, designers, builders and homeowners the beauty and versatility of natural stone products in residential and commercial settings."