Finalists, Lifetime Achievement Award Announced For Outdoor Retailer Inspiration Awards
Finalists for the 12th annual Outdoor Retailer Inspiration Awards were announced today, recognizing individuals, companies, and organizations for their dedication to encouraging outdoor recreation and improving the outdoor experience. This year’s recipients will be unveiled in a live, in-person ceremony on Thursday, June 9, 2022, the first night of Outdoor Retailer Summer at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver.
An independent judging panel determined the 2022 finalists across five categories: individual, emerging leader, manufacturer, nonprofit organization, and retailer. The finalists are:
- Individual: Gloria Hwang, Kindra Roberts, Shaheen Sadeghi
- Emerging Leader: Katie Doherty, Mercy M’fon Shammah
- Manufacturer: BioLite, Goal Zero, MPOWERED, Sawyer Products
- Nonprofit: Climate Neutral, National Forest Foundation, The Cairn Project
- Retailer: Moosejaw, Pack Rat Outdoor Center
This year’s Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes Larry Harrison, who’s career in the outdoor industry has spanned 50 fun and rewarding years. He worked with and for Eagle Creek, Wilderness Experience, JanSport, LOWA, Rockport, Sierra Designs, and adidas Outdoor, among others, concluding his full-time career with Outdoor Retailer where he holds the rare distinction of having attended every Outdoor Retailer. Harrison also served on the Board of Directors for the Outdoor Industry Association and the Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition, and has spearheaded numerous outdoor events, experiences, and awards programs while serving the community and creating more stewards of the outdoors.
“All of the honorees at the Outdoor Retailer Inspiration Awards are demonstrated changemakers and truly inspiring others to get outside,” said Marisa Nicholson, Outdoor Retailer senior vice president and show director. “This year’s finalists are creating more opportunities for outdoor recreation, making the outdoors safer and more accessible, and are committed to supporting communities and protecting the natural places we enjoy.
“We’re also so thrilled to celebrate Larry Harrison for the impact he has had on many of us and our industry throughout his career,” continued Nicholson. “He co-founded these awards 12 years ago, and we’re looking forward to recognizing him and this year’s recipients at the ceremony which will undoubtedly leave us excited about the future for our incredible community.”
The ceremony to announce the 2022 recipients and honor Harrison will be hosted by rock climber, outdoor advocate, and past recipient Timmy O’Neill. Held inside the Colorado Convention Center on Night 1 of Outdoor Retailer Summer, June 9, doors for the live ceremony open at 6 p.m. Outdoor Retailer’s 40th Anniversary Party immediately follows the awards program at the Hyatt Regency.
Outdoor Retailer Summer is back at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver this June 9-11, 2022, providing opportunities for commerce, community, and connections for the outdoor industry. Alongside industry celebrations, attendees can find three days of education sessions, networking opportunities, and more than 550 exhibitors. Registration and the daily schedule can be found at www.outdoorretailer.com.
