Community | PPPC Communiqué PPPC Names David Lewenberg As Its 2024 Hall of Fame Award Winner Genumark’s executive vice president and chief operating officer was honored during NATCON 2024 in Toronto. By Margaret Williamson Batuszkin THE 43RD ANNUAL Promotional Product Professionals of Canada Awards and After-Party was held during the association’s National Convention in Toronto in September. The Awards and After-Party is considered the association’s most anticipated social night of the year, where members are recognized and celebrated for their excellence. More than 40 awards were given in various categories during the ceremony, including the Hall of Fame, Humanitarian and Momentum Awards. This year’s Hall of Fame Award winner was David Lewenberg, EVP and COO of Genumark – the No. 35 distributor in the PPAI 100. Last year’s winner and PPPC’s 37th Hall of Fame inductee, Merrick Falkenstein, EVP of St Regis Group – PPAI 100’s No. 22 supplier – presented Lewenberg with the award. During the presentation, Falkenstein referred to Lewenberg, who entered the promo world 30 years ago, as an “industry lifer.” Prior to joining Genumark, Lewenberg served as a sales rep at Avon Sportswear before moving to Actionware, where he later became a partner. He not only managed a corporate sales division at Actionware but also oversaw a decorating division that included screen printing and embroidery services. From this experience, he gained an important perspective of what it’s like to run a decorating facility. Today, Lewenberg’s colleagues at Genumark refer to him as a tireless, dedicated and invaluable member of the team. He’s been with the company more than 25 years and was often a primary liaison and leader to its vendor community. This commitment paved the way for enduring, respectful supplier relationships, which have been an integral component to the company’s success. Having served on the PPPC National Board from 2009 until 2016, Lewenberg is known for his positive impact on the association and promotional products industry. Beyond his professional achievements, he’s a strong family person and philanthropist who has worked with many charities. During his acceptance speech, Lewenberg attributed his success to an approach inspired by his parents. “I’ve always had a very simple approach that I learned from my late father, Morris, and my amazing mother, Rifka,” he said. “Work hard, care about people, and work harder.” Lewenberg was joined by his mother; his wife, Risa; and their children for the awards ceremony. Williamson Batuszkin is PPPC’s marketing and communications manager. Having served on the PPPC National Board from 2009 until 2016, Lewenberg is known for his positive impact on the association and promotional products industry. 74 • NOVEMBER 2024 • PPAI
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