The American Soybean Association (ASA) recognized two leaders with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual ASA Banquet at Commodity Classic last week.

ASA President Ray Gaesser (left) presents Dave Drennan (right) from Chesterfield, Mo. the Lifetime Achievement Award – Membership Focus at the ASA banquet. Photo Credit: Sandra Martin

The award honors individuals who have provided outstanding leadership and dedication to ASA and helped further the interests of soybean farmers.

Dave Drennan from Chesterfield, Mo. was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award – Membership Focus. Drennan started his career with ASA in 1975 as newsletter editor. He was named interim Field Services Director at age 24. Dave was ASA’s first Membership Manager in 1979 to spearhead ASA’s membership efforts. In that year, ASA’s membership increased eight percent and more than 1,400 members from the previous year. Drennan was also recognized as the number one ASA Regional Manager for membership recruitment in 1980 from ASA’s 11 regions.

ASA President Ray Gaesser (left) presents David Womack (right) from Shelbyville, Tenn. the Lifetime Achievement Award – Association Focus. Photo Credit: Sandra Martin

David Womack from Shelbyville, Tenn. was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award – Association Focus.

Womack has been involved in the state and national soybean organizations for more than 30 years. Womack held leadership positions in ASA, was a founding member of the United Soybean Board (USB) and the last president of the American Soybean Development Foundation.

“In my opinion, you couldn’t find a more deserving and qualified individual who has committed more than Mr. Womack to serving the Tennessee and American soybean associations and to improving the standing of soybean producers everywhere,” said Julius Johnson, Commissioner, Tennessee Department of Agriculture in his letter of recommendation for Womack.

Womack also served on the National Biodiesel Board (NBB), Tennessee Soybean Association (TSA) and Tennessee Soybean Promotion Board (TSPB).