September 27, 2010
For Immediate Release

Sheldon named NRWA Man of the Year

NEW ORLEANS, La. – Fred Sheldon, a resident of Omak, Wash., was named the National Rural Water Association’s 2010 Man of the Year at the association’s annual conference held Sept. 27 - 29 in New Orleans, La.                

Sheldon recently completed a two-year term as president for the association, serving as the leadership and political “face” of nearly 28,000 water and wastewater utilities across the United States. He was honored as Man of the Year in recognition for both his recent service to water industry and his long-time achievement in the industry.                       

“I would like to thank everyone for their friendship and support, and would like to thank Rural Development,” Sheldon said.                                     

Sheldon worked for the City of Omak for twenty three years serving as their Public Works Director and overseeing different city departments before his retirement. 

He was instrumental in the establishment of his State Rural Water Association and has served several terms as Board President and Vice President. In 2004 he was recognized by his peers for his hard work and dedication to rural water in his home state and was awarded the prestigious “Pioneer Award,” an award given each year to a leader in the drinking water industry.

In 2010 he was once again recognized for his service and dedication to Rural Water as he was presented with the first ever “Fred Sheldon Lifetime Achievement Award” from the Evergreen Rural Water of Washington  Board of Directors.

Sheldon was also awarded an award of appreciation from the USDA Rural Development, for his part in maintaining association’s deep and long-standing relationship with Rural Development.

“When you see the people from USDA, don’t forget to thank them for what they do,” Sheldon said during his speech at the conference opening session.

Sheldon often used his speeches to remind the gathered water professionals of the importance of building relationships and gratitude to the mission of rural water.

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