Sacramento, Calif. (February 19, 2016) – DBA International awarded Gary Wood, a statesman for the debt buying industry, the Bud Reitzel Lifetime Commitment Award, the industry’s highest recognition, at the 19th Annual DBA International Conference in Las Vegas.
Prior to DBA having a Federal Legislative Consultant, Gary helped organize many Capitol Hill visits where he laid the ground work for getting DBA’s voice heard with Legislators. As the years progressed, Gary was an active consultant in the legislative arena. Gary’s background of being a former staffer on Capitol Hill made him a natural mentor for DBA’s advocacy program.
As a dedicated mentor and energetic leader, Bud Reitzel brought integrity, innovative thinking and passion to the industry he helped create. Following his passing in 2012, DBA International established an award that honors an individual who shares Reitzel’s commitment to honesty, doing what was right, respecting the consumer and treating everyone fairly.
“DBA’s members continue to raise the bar for the industry and we are thrilled to recognize Gary Wood for his passion and hard work,” said DBA President Trish Baxter. “DBA International would not be what it is today if it were not for Gary’s passionate leadership skills, and years of service on the Board including two years as Board President.”
Gary Wood is the third recipient of this distinguished award, joining Dennis Hammond (2015) and Michael Bendickson (2014).