David Fell Spirit of Service Award
Entry Deadline: June 30
Guidelines for David Fell Spirit of Service Award
The David Fell Spirit of Service Award is presented to a company and/or individual who participated in the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program to recognize their efforts for demonstrating the qualities and characteristics of leadership within their company, the community, and beyond.
CRITERIA
General:
- Natural Stone Institute member in good standing.
- Has participated in at least (1) Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. project (home).
- Exemplifies leadership and service to their local community and/or their team.
Specific:
- Demonstrates a commitment towards making a positive and measurable impact for the industry and the R.I.S.E. program.
- Models an attitude of empathy for veterans and the R.I.S.E. program.
- Positively influences others and builds a spirit of camaraderie within the department and/or organization.
- Demonstrates quality work that sets an example while including others.
- Nominees must submit a short video (less than 2 minutes) explaining their involvement with the R.I.S.E. program and how it impacted them, their company, and others.
About David Fell
The David Fell Spirit of Service Award is presented in memory of David Fell, President of BG Hoadley Quarries.
David passed away unexpectedly in 2021 and his memory now lives on through a meaningful contribution to the Natural Stone Foundation. This award will also honor one of his life aspirations.
David’s family discovered a list of goals David hoped to accomplish before his retirement. The list includes his desire to be involved with the excellent work that NSI members are doing through the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program. The award not only pays tribute to David’s memory but also accomplishes one of his life goals by honoring a company or individual who has participated in this program.
“We are so incredibly proud of this Award named for David because it conveys his belief that it’s a wonderful world when we give back by helping and serving others with our natural resources. Our nation’s heroes put their lives on the line to serve and save us!”
David’s Mother, Patsy Fell-Barker, BG Hoadley Quarries
To learn more about the award, please contact Pam Hammond at (440) 250-9222 or pam@naturalstoneinstitute.org.
Current Award Recipients
2025 Recipient — Karla Forest
2026 StonExpo – 2025 David Fell Spirit of Service Award
We are thrilled to announce that Karla Forest has been named the recipient of the 2025 David Fell Spirit of Service Award. Karla’s unwavering dedication to the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program has made a lasting impact, as she continues to lead with both passion and tireless commitment. From organizing donated materials to volunteering on the NSI R.I.S.E. Committee, Karla’s exceptional efforts have consistently gone above and beyond in support of our national heroes. Her deep passion for service shines through in everything she does, inspiring those around her to take action and create meaningful change.
Karla’s integrity and devotion to the R.I.S.E. program make her an incredibly deserving recipient of this prestigious honor. The David Fell Spirit of Service Award celebrates individuals who exemplify the values of selflessness, generosity, and dedication to others, and Karla embodies these qualities in every aspect of her work. Having served on the Natural Stone Institute R.I.S.E. Committee for several years, including as committee chair in 2024, she has played a pivotal role in expanding the program’s impact. Additionally, Karla has personally attended numerous home events and dedications, further deepening her connection to the heroes she serves.
Please join us in congratulating Karla Forest, the 2025 recipient of the David Fell Spirit of Service Award.
The David Fell Spirit of Service Award is presented in memory of David Fell, President of BG Hoadley Quarries. David passed away in 2021 and his memory now lives on through this prestigious award. Presented to recognize a company or individual involved with the Gary Sinise Foundation R.I.S.E. program, the award recipient demonstrates the qualities and characteristics of leadership within their organization, the community, and beyond.
“We are so incredibly proud of this award named for David because it conveys his belief that it’s a wonderful world when we give back by helping and serving others with our natural resources. Our nation’s heroes put their lives on the line to serve and save us!”
David’s Mother, Patsy Fell-Barker, BG Hoadley Quarries
Special thanks to Mario & Son for generously donating this award.
Honorary Lifetime Recipient — Gary Sinise
Past Award Recipients
2024 — Evan Cohen, Quality Marble & Granite
2023 — Greg Osterhout, Northern Stone Supply, Inc.
2022 — Bernie Van Etten, Murphy Marble Company
