Bethany, Conn. -- Laticrete has created the “Heart of Laticrete” Award to recognize employees who make a difference in the lives of those inside and outside of the company.

David A. Rothberg, chairman and CEO, has been named the first-ever recipient in honor of his dedication to ensuring that the company values survive the generational transition of ownership. He has worked to not only preserve the legacy begun by Laticrete founders, Henry M. Rothberg, Ph.D., and Lillian Rosenstock Rothberg, but to also nurture their firm roots in its current culture. In commemoration, the award was renamed The David A. Rothberg Heart of Laticrete Award, which will be presented annually to an employee nominated by his or her peers.

"David's generosity is not as widely known within the company as it should be, as David has never deliberately drawn attention to his works,” said Edward Metcalf, Laticrete North America president and COO. “Projects he has supported run the gamut from direct personal assistance to people in need, to public arts, to educational achievement to assisting in the completion of construction projects of all scales. He has contributed his time and resources to countless good deeds over the years and his vision and practices have become embedded in our values.”

The first David A. Rothberg Heart of Laticrete Award was given to Troy R. Wicks, regional sales manager of SPD, for his significant disaster recovery volunteer work over the past 15 years, including installing Laticrete products in third-world countries and participating in 45 projects at schools, feeding centers, housing, libraries, churches, and hospitals in 18 countries across 5 continents.

"Troy has made a difference in the lives of thousands of people of all ages in many disadvantaged communities around the globe,” said Metcalf. “In literally dozens of countries he has helped to build hospitals, schools, community centers, libraries and other public assets. On many of these projects Troy has brought his expertise to task by installing durable and low-maintenance floors with Laticrete Spartacote and other Laticrete products. Both David and Troy represent the best of Laticrete and the values that stand behind our company name. We are honored to serve with them as team members and to celebrate the recognition of their good works."

For more information, visit laticrete.com.