Member of the Year

The Chris Walker Memorial Member of the Year Award is given annually, by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of NEFA, to individuals whose service to the Association exemplifies the volunteer driven spirit of Chris Walker.

In 2012, the NEFA Member of the Year Award was renamed to honor Chris Walker who passed away the year prior. Walker was a tireless advocate for all that was good in this industry and a dedicated NEFA Board member. He was a colleague, mentor, and friend to many throughout the industry and it is NEFA’s honor and privilege to continue his legacy by bestowing this honor to worth NEFA volunteers.

2024 MEMBER OF THE YEAR

2024 MEMBER OF THE YEAR

Brad Peterson, Channel

Brad Peterson has been a longstanding volunteer and supporter of NEFA for many years. He has consistently gone above and beyond in his role as a NEFA member, whether through his dedication to the mentorship of others or involvement in delivering educational programs. His hard work and leadership have not only inspired others but have also fostered an environment where growth and learning are prioritized. Brad served on the United Association of Equipment Leasing (UAEL) Board from 2001-2008 including President in 2007 and was instrumental in the forming of NEFA, occurring after the UAEL & EAEL merge in 2008.

Brad’s passion for the equipment finance industry and NEFA serve as a model for others to follow. It is because of members like Brad that the community within our industry continues to thrive and grow.

Past Honorees

2023
Anne Dalgaard, CPA, CLFP
Dynamic Rentals
2022
Scott Wheeler, CLPF
Wheeler Business Consulting LLC
2021
Kristian Dolan
Northteq
2020
Robert Hornby
CSG Law
2019
Bob Hanna
Cohn & Dussi, LLC
2017
Kayla Perlinger, CLFP
Oakmont Capital Holdings, LLC
2016
Robert S. Cohen
Moritt Hock & Hamroff, LLP
2015
Jim Merrilees, CLFP
2014
John Rosenlund, CLFP
2013
Chris Enbom
AP Equipment Financing
2012
Randy Haug
LTi Technology Solutions
2011
Chris Walker, CLFP
GreatAmerica Financial Service
2010
Tara Aasand
LTi Technology Solutions