InTrans / Oct 14, 2024
Richards receives APWA distinguished service award
Iowa Statewide Urban Design and Specifications (SUDAS) and Public Works Service Bureau (PWSB) Program Specialist Beth Richards had a busy September, coordinating, planning, or attending four conferences in three weeks, but at least she saved the best for last.
It was during the American Public Works Association (APWA) Iowa Chapter Fall Conference held September 25–27 in Cedar Rapids that Richards received recognition for all her hard work, not just during the past month but for years of dedication.
Richards earned the association’s Stan Ring Distinguished Service Award that recognizes APWA Iowa Chapter members who have demonstrated exemplary long-term service and commitment to the state chapter and to the public works profession. The Stan Ring Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Iowa Chapter, and Richards is the first female and youngest recipient.
“Thank you to all who made this happen and have supported me in this journey,” said Richards, who was also elected president-elect of the APWA Iowa Chapter during the conference.
She added, “I appreciate my friends who made sure that my husband Jim was with me during the awards ceremony. Both his attendance and the award were pleasant surprises!”
Iowa SUDAS and PWSB Director David Carney congratulated Richards on her award, noting how much Richards contributes to the programs and beyond.
“An award doesn’t fully tell everyone how much Beth does for APWA and Iowa public works in general, and how much we all appreciate her,” Carney said.
Richards’ service was previously recognized by the chapter with the L.O. Stewart Service Award in 2023, the Chapter Service Award in 2016 and 2022, the Young Leader Award in 2015, and the President’s Award in 2010 and 2019.
Richards has been involved with the APWA since 2008, serving in many roles during her involvement with the association, and she will continue to serve as the chapter’s secretary and treasurer until taking over as president-elect in January.
Earlier this year, Richards was also recognized by Iowa State for going above and beyond in her duties, receiving the university’s CYtation Award. She has been with the SUDAS program since 2003.