Natural Stone Institute Activates Honorary Life Member Designation to Recognize Industry Leadership

 

Contact:
Natural Stone Institute
(440) 250-9222
networking@naturalstoneinstitute.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Oberlin, OH, February 27, 2026 —The Natural Stone Institute 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 the Natural Stone Institute 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.

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 Natural Stone Institute 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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About the Natural Stone Institute

The Natural Stone Institute (NSI) is a trade association representing more than 2,000 members in over 50 nations in virtually every aspect of the global natural stone industry. NSI is dedicated to increasing awareness of natural stone as one of nature’s most enduring, inspiring, and sustainable building materials. We offer opportunities for professionals of all fields, backgrounds, and career levels to connect on natural stone industry challenges, meet potential business partners, and grow their expertise and influence. NSI plays a central role in advancing professionalism, technical standards, and safety through a commitment to training, regulatory advocacy, third-party testing, and rigorous credentialing. Learn more about NSI’s programs, publications, and passion for the natural stone industry at www.naturalstoneinstitute.org.

About the Natural Stone Foundation
The Natural Stone Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the Natural Stone Institute, supporting education, scholarships, standards, and natural stone promotion. Learn more at naturalstoneinstitute.org/foundation.