The American Coatings Association (ACA) is seeking nominations for the inaugural David F. Darling Prize. The prize will recognize individuals who, through coatings science, technology, and research, demonstrate innovation in the areas of sustainability and environmental stewardship. Nominations and supporting materials received by December 1, 2022 will allow ACA’s Sustainability Committee to consider honoring the nominee at ACA’s CoatingsTech Conference, which will be held June 26-28, 2023, in Cleveland, Ohio.

The David F. Darling Prize recipient will be announced during the conference, where the winner will be presented with a plaque and accompanying $5,000 monetary prize.

David F. Darling was ACA’s vice president of health, safety, and environmental affairs, who passed away on January 30, 2022. A staunch and effective advocate for ACA and the industry for 25 years, his expertise and contributions to the coatings industry extended into the sustainability sphere and the related area of product stewardship, where he developed a wide network of professionals with the goal of creating scientifically informed solutions for the coatings industry. In recognition of his exemplary contributions to ACA and the paint and coatings industry, he was acknowledged with the award of Honor and Meritorious Service at ACA’s Industry Awards Dinner on April 4, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

More information is available at https://www.paint.org/dfd-prize/.