Announcing the 2023 DPHA Professional Award Winners!

During last week's 22nd Annual Conference and Product Showcase in Chicago, we announced the 2023 DPHA professional award winners! The companies and individuals honored below showcase the best of what DPHA has to offer in service, knowledge, and professionalism.

This special issue of Connections features all of our 2023 Professional of the Year Winners, as well as what their nominators had to say about them. Congratulations to all of the winners!

JAMES J. BABBITT JR. AWARD, (Formerly President's Award):

ANDREW MOSS

Andrew started quietly working in the background to help an area that needed a refresh. For years, the DPHA Conference has always been the shining star of the association. Within the past few years, DPHA has been working hard to create meaningful engagement all year long; to provide content, networking, and education continuously throughout the year. Knowing this area needed attention, Andrew stepped up in a colossal way!

Along with his co-panelist, Andrew has grabbed DPHA's Wednesday Webinar Project with both hands breathed life into it, and created a valuable tool for this association. Additionally, he continues to take a more active role in this association every day, most recently, being nominated to the Board of Directors. Andrew's ability to help run Advance Plumbing, stay humble, and get into the trenches to get the job done made him the perfect candidate to win this prestigious award. 

CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT
OF THE YEAR: THE FURNITURE GUILD

"Anyone you call is always happy, pleasant, warm, friendly, and exceedingly competent. If a client wants something that is not possible there are always options offered and workarounds figured out to make sure the client's wishes are accommodated if at all possible." 

"Friendliest, most helpful customer service department I deal with. It's challenging to specify a product that is nearly custom in nature...you don't have to feel anxious to call for help because you feel the sincerity when they say that's what they are there for."

MANUFACTURING PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR: ANTHONY HAJJAR

"Anthony has been with Jaclo for 14 years and brings a positive attitude and supportive nature everywhere he goes."  

"Anthony is a bright and engaging participant in DPHA and is always there to lend a helping hand. He is extremely well-liked across the country, a strong educator, and an enthusiast of all things DPH. 

Anthony is the VP of Operations on the DPHA Board of Directors, co-chair of the Program & Showcase Committee, and a previous recipient of the DPHA President's Award."

REPRESENTATIVE AGENCY OF THE YEAR:
THE RAIN COMPANY

"The Killgore girls have taken the Pacific Northwest by storm in recreating the rep game. This team thinks outside of the box, creates custom charcuterie trays like Martha Stewart, and even has Doug licensed and bonded to handle any complex display work thrown their way. Their clients consistently reference their up-to-date website and know they can always catch someone on the phone when questions arise.

Their clients state they are very specific about which vendors they choose to bring on and believe in the product that they are repping, loving the story of each vendor. One nomination even states Kim is the best rep they have seen in their 20-something years in the industry."

REPRESENTATIVE PROFESSIONAL
OF THE YEAR:
KELLI GAGNON

"Kelli has been a staple in the DPH industry for over 30 years. She has experience in both the showroom and representative sides of the business which helps her understand the challenges Showroom sales staff face.

She goes above and beyond for her clients to make sure they are properly educated on her products, and she is always available to assist with problems that arise. Her technical knowledge of our industry is among the best there is."

SHOWROOM PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR: NATHANAEL CHOWN

"Nathanael believes in fostering an intricate relationship between the design community and members of the decorative plumbing and hardware industry. He is active in several affiliated groups and has spent much of his own time volunteering and participating in efforts to further education, interaction, communication, and promoting the DPH category.  He is also the VP of Communications on DPHA's Board of Directors.

Whether it be charity auctions for pet rescues, procuring products for women’s shelters, or participating on DPHA committees, Nathanael is always willing to share his insight, help with action items, and encourage others to become more involved."

SHOWROOM OF THE YEAR:
DESIGNER BATH BY SALEM PLUMBING SUPPLY

The company is currently run by third-generation siblings, Mindy and Jason Sevinor. A key element that makes Designer Bath stand apart from the competition is their “we care” attitude. In its essence, that is the fundamental core belief and approach that drives all interactions. Their sales associates are given the authority to rectify any issues and take pride in their work. Designer Bath recognizes that its customers are integral to its success and that each department relies on one another.  The 7,000-square-foot showroom unveiled itself to the public fall of 2017 and is a top-tier experience center that allows clientele to get the real feel of the products they provide in the Boston area.