PPA National Award

The PPA National Award, established by Professional Photographers of America, stands as the highest honor an affiliate organization may bestow. Reserved for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service to professional photography, the award recognizes those who go above and beyond, selflessly supporting the craft, their peers, and the broader photographic community. Each year, PPA makes this distinction available to its affiliate organizations - state, regional, national, and international - who, in turn, select a recipient whose dedication and impact are deemed truly exceptional. Chosen by their peers, honorees of the PPA National Award embody the spirit of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of our industry.

PPA National Award Recipients
2025 Dennis Craft
2024 Ella Carlson
2023 Dennis Hammon
2022 Karen Nakamura
2020 Nancy Emmerich
2019 Jessica Vogel
2018 Leslie Kitten
2017 Linda Durham
2016 Linda Smith
2015 Rick Massarini
2014 Mark Lane
2013 Joan Genest
2012 Sher Carroll
2011 Kalen Henderson
2010 Kathryn Meek
2009 Don Emmerich
2008 Richard Trummer
2007 Jon Allyn
2006 Buddy Stewart
2005 Ernie Johnson
2004 William Eaton
2003 Harvey Goldstein
2002 Mark Roberts
2001 Verna Madigan-Willett
2000 Glen Nelson
1999 John Miele, Jr.
1998 William Stevenson
1997 Randy Bradford
1996 Warren Earl Motts
1995 Tom McDonald
1994 Ted Sirlin
1993 James Dunlap
1992 Frank Cricchio
1991 Robert Opfer
1990 Jason Hailey
1989 John Howell
1988 Marvel Nelson
1987 Joseph Van Dolah
1986 Robert Golding
1985 James Bastinck
1984 Roland Laramie
1983 Terry Wood
1982 Kenneth Whitmire
1981 Morton Sobin

Questions about the PPA National Award?

For more information, contact Chairperson John Powers

ASP Awards

Ready to Join the American Society of Photographers?

Whether you’re an experienced professional or a newly awarded degree recipient, ASP offers a community where photographic excellence is celebrated and elevated.

Are you New to (or Rejoining) ASP?

Join us and gain access to exclusive exhibitions, awards, mentorship, and a network of elite image-makers.

New Member Application

First-Time Degree Recipient?

Congratulations—your first year of ASP membership is on us. It's our way of welcoming you into a society built on achievement and artistry.

First-Time Degree Application