The National System Contractors Association (NSCA) presented Alesia Hendley, business development manager at Sennheiser, with the first-ever John Greene Mentorship Award at the 26th annual Business & Leadership Conference (BLC), held Feb. 27-29, 2024, in Irving, Texas. NSCA, is, of course, the Cedar Rapids, Iowa-based, not-for-profit association representing the commercial integration industry,
This award is named after John Greene, a well-known industry educator and mentor. He was passionate about helping others reach their full potential, and he was always willing to go the extra mile to support his students and colleagues. Greene was a role model for many during his 30-year career. He passed on May 13, 2021, at age 63 after a lengthy battle with cancer. This award was created to honor his legacy of helping others. He not only dedicated his life to industry mentorship but also served as a volunteer and co-captain for Special Olympics Pennsylvania and Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation.
Hendley is an AV professional who found her passion for the industry at a young age as a sound engineer in her father’s church. Today, in addition to working for one of the world’s most prestigious microphone manufacturing companies, she’s also one of the industry’s top influencers and content creators. She’s a columnist on Commercial Integrator, and has appeared on CI’s 40 Under 40 influencer list, Installation’s Pro AV Watch List roundup, and SCN’s The Nine list. As an industry leader, she focuses on paying it forward and using her platform to amplify other voices.
“Learning that I won the first-ever John Greene Mentorship Award left me speechless,” says Hendley. “John always poured into me, especially early on in my career. He constantly cheered me on, shared his knowledge with me, and encouraged me in times when I wanted to quit. To know I’m playing a part in others’ lives the way John did for me is a true honor and a blessing. I plan to continue paying it forward with his contributions to not only me but also this entire industry forever in my mind and heart.”
While the industry recognizes that no one can replicate Greene’s charisma and passion, NSCA believes that leaders like Hendley can help the industry work together to continue to mentor up-and-coming leaders.
“John had a unique ability to genuinely connect with people,” says NSCA Executive Director Tom LeBlanc, “and Hendley’s ability to do the same was evident in the multiple nominations we received for her. She clearly believes in bringing the human connection to business.”
Amazing! The inaugural John Greene Mentorship Award goes to my #avtweeps bff, @thesmoothfactor! She is a mentor to so many of us. Thank you, Alesia, for all you give to our community and our industry fam!#BLC2024 pic.twitter.com/xbaqLyk3ae
— Dan Ferrisi (@DanFerrisiEdit) February 28, 2024
