Award Presentation
June 1, 2024 | The Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City

The Lee-Douthit-Levine Perseverance Award was created in 2022 as a means of recognizing an AAF volunteer who despite all odds accomplished great feats while executing the voluntary responsibilities of a Local, District or National position.

Named after three extraordinary people (one from each of the three AAF Regions) who dedicated their lives to volunteerism in their communities and to the AAF, this annual honor shall be acknowledged during the Salute to Achievers event at ADMERICA.

 

2024 Recipient 

Kurt Thigpen

Kurt Thigpen

Governor, AAF District 14 

The Honorable Kurt Thigpen is the co-founder of Ace Studios, an ADDY-award winning creative agency based in vibrant Reno, Nevada. As the CEO, he's not just steering the ship—he's also a seasoned keynote speaker and bestselling author, sharing his expertise on effective marketing strategies, DEI initiatives, and personal branding with audiences all over. Beyond his day job, Kurt is deeply committed to community, public education and advocacy. He has served as the esteemed Governor for AAF District 14 for 2.5 years, having climbed the ranks of district leadership after serving as AAF Reno President for two terms previously.  He represents northern Nevada and northern California in leading the charge for excellence in advertising. He has also served as an elected Trustee for the Washoe County School Board and continues to make an impact as an appointed board member of the State Public Charter School Authority. When he's not in the boardroom, Kurt enjoys spending time with family, exploring new destinations, nurturing his creativity, getting lost in a good book, and occasionally catching up on some well-deserved rest.