Natural Stone Institute Launches Honorary Life Members Program
Past presidents of the Natural Stone Institute and Natural Stone Foundation.
OBERLIN, OH — The Natural Stone Institute (NSI) Board of Directors has formally activated the Honorary Life Member designation to recognize individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service and leadership to the organization and the natural stone industry. As defined in the bylaws, Honorary Life Members are individuals who have served as director or who have given outstanding service to NSI and are specifically granted such membership by the Board of Directors. While this category has long existed within the bylaws, it had not previously been utilized.
The Board determined that implementing the designation now is both timely and meaningful as the NSI continues to acknowledge the lasting contributions of those who have helped shape and strengthen the organization and the industry.
NSI's Inaugural Honorary Life Members
The following individuals were unanimously approved by the Board of Directors to receive the inaugural Honorary Life Member designation:
- Scott Buechel — Buechel Stone Corp. (Retired)
- David Castellucci — Kenneth Castellucci & Associates (Retired)
- Brenda Edwards — TexaStone Quarries (Retired)
- Patsy Fell-Barker — B.G. Hoadley Quarries (Retired)
- Monica Gawet — Tennessee Marble (Retired)
- Guido Gliori — Grazzini Brothers & Co. (Retired)
- Jeff Matthews — Trade International (Semi-Retired)
- Chuck Monson — Dakota Granite (Retired)
- G.K. Naquin — Stone Interiors (Retired)
- Dan Rea — Coldspring (Retired)
- Jack Seiders — Architectural Surfaces (Retired)
- Robert (Bob) Stasswender — Southwest Marble & Granite Works (Retired)
- Paul Vigna — Artisan Tile & Marble Co. of N.J., Inc. (Retired)
- Jonathan Zanger — Walker Zanger (Retired)
Each of these individuals has played a significant role in advancing the NSI's mission and contributing to the growth and professionalism of the natural stone industry. “I am deeply honored and proud to have played a role in suggesting other industry leaders who should be considered,” said Jeff Matthews, Honorary Life Member. “I know the list will grow over time, and I look forward to seeing NSI continue to acknowledge outstanding individuals, as well as great projects, through its award programs.”
Future Nominations
Looking ahead, the Board has requested that the Past Presidents Advisory Council annually review and recommend additional individuals for consideration. This includes past board members from organizations that joined the NSI through the mergers with the Building Stone Institute (BSI), Marble Institute of America (MIA) and the National Building Granite Quarries Association (NBGQA).
Members are encouraged to share suggestions for future consideration by contacting executive@naturalstoneinstitute.org.
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