Workers’ Compensation Leaders Recognized with IAIABC President’s Awards

October 21, 2022 at 11:17 AM EDT

Gregor Kemper, Director of International Relations, German Social Accident Insurance (DGUV) and then-IAIABC President, recognized eight individuals for their service to the IAIABC and the workers’ compensation industry at the IAIABC 108^th Convention.

Conferred annually, the President’s Awards honor those who demonstrate commitment to reducing harm and aiding recovery from occupational injuries and illnesses. The IAIABC proudly celebrates these individuals and their achievements.

The 2022 President’s Award was given to Karl Aumann, Chairman of the Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission. This award is given in appreciation for dedicated leadership and service to the IAIABC and workers’ compensation community.

The 2022 Frances Perkins Award was given to Jill Gradwohl Schroeder, Administrator of the Nebraska Workers’ Compensation Court. This award is awarded for following in the footsteps of Frances Perkins, US Secretary of Labor and IAIABC President, who was a role model for progressive leadership in workers’ compensation.

The 2022 Samuel Gompers Award was presented to Chris Godfrey, Director of the U.S. Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs. This award is given in recognition of outstanding efforts “In improving the working conditions of the masses.”

The 2022 IAIABC Award of Merit was presented to Meng Li Che, Assistant Chief Industrial Appeals Judge with the Washington Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals. This award recognizes an individual for outstanding contribution of leadership and commitment in furthering the goals of the association.

The 2022 International Collaboration Award was presented to Irina Nemirovsky, Research Data Specialist with the California Commission on Health and Safety and Workers’ Compensation. This award is given for excellence in promoting collaboration and understanding between international workers’ compensation and social security agencies.

The 2022 Outstanding Achievement in EDI was presented to Amy Royce, Senior Data Consultant with NCCI. This award is given for outstanding contribution and commitment to the development of Electronic Data Interchange standards for workers’ compensation reporting.

The 2022 Associate Member Award of Merit was presented to Steve Wurzelbacher, Director of the Center for Workers’ Compensation Studies at NIOSH. This award recognizes outstanding contribution of leadership and commitment in furthering the goals of the Association.

The 2022 Past President Award was presented to Ron Dressler, Director of the Utah Labor Commission Division of Industrial Labor. Ron started his presidency in September of 2020 and helped lead the IAIABC through the Covid-19 pandemic with steadfast dedication and passion.