ConnexFM, the Multi-Site facilities network, is proud to honor Nelda Alston, PRSM Charter Member and longtime staff member, with the Lawrence W. Whelan ConnexFM Lifetime Achievement Award.
This award, presented at the recent CONNEX2021 National Conference, recognizes extraordinary accomplishments by ConnexFM members, who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to the facility maintenance profession over a long career. The award’s namesake, Lawrence W. Whelan was an industry pioneer who led the industry through his commitment to continued education and service expertise, passed away in 2009.
“Nelda has seen not only the association grow from its infancy but witnessed facilities management professionals transform how Multi-Site Organizations function,” said Bill Yanek, ConnexFM CEO.
Alston indeed had a front row seat for the last 26 years. “I came to PRSM from Blockbuster, where I worked in the Facilities Department. My boss was one of the original founders of PRSM, which formed in the office next to mine. We quite literally started in a basement, and I’ve seen it grow since then,” Alston recollecting on joining the association as a member in 1995.
After 10 years with Blockbuster, Alston joined the association staff in 2001 as Office Manager and eventually as Director of Office Operations. “She may prefer to stay behind the scenes, but Nelda’s dedication to both staff and members ensured the association had all the necessary resources to succeed for the past 20 years,” said Yanek.
In her tenure, she has seen the staff grow from four individuals in the Dallas headquarters to over 20, resulting in three office moves. Alston has been involved in all areas of the association including membership, conferences and office operations. “Looking back at the first meeting in the basement, no one even knew we existed. But I’m glad I got to experience this. I got to see our association through the times. That’s my favorite thing,” said Alston.
Being honored with the Lawrence W. Whelan Lifetime Achievement Award had special meaning to Alston. “This is the most prestigious award anyone could receive because Lawrence Whelan was a great person and I’m so honored,” said Alston at the Awards Presentation at CONNEX2021 National Conference. “I want to thank our members – you’ve supported us and been there through the ups and downs for over 25 years. We would have never made it if it had not been for all of you. I have a lot of memories and I am so thankful. I love all of y’all.”
Watch Nelda Alston receive the award at CONNEX2021 National Conference on a special presentation of ConnexFM’s The Daily Grind. Read the full coverage of the 2021 ConnexFM’s Annual Awards here.
About ConnexFM
ConnexFM, formerly known as PRSM, is the leading membership organization for multi-site facilities managers and supplier professionals. Established in 1995, and based in Irving, TX, ConnexFM empowers facilities management professionals with events, best practices, benchmarking, education, discussion forums and trusted partnerships. Members depend upon ConnexFM to help them achieve greater success and a competitive advantage through quality programs and resources. For more information visit www.connexfm.com.
