ALEXANDRIA, VA. — The North American Renderers Association (NARA) announced Nov. 11 that David Kaluzny II, of Kaluzny Bros Inc., has been awarded the 2024 Don Franco Distinguished Service Award. As the organization’s “highest honor,” the award recognizes his leadership, dedication and contributions to the rendering and meat industries. Kaluzny was presented with the award by NARA Chairman, Michael Glenn, at the association’s recent 2024 Annual Convention in Santa Barbara, Calif. 

Previous winners of the award include JJ Smith of NARA and the Fats and Proteins Research Foundation (FPRF), and NARA’s David Meeker. 

According to the organization, with a distinguished career that has spanned decades, Kaluzny’s unwavering commitment and strategic vision have profoundly influenced both the national and global landscape of the industry. 

Throughout his career, Kaluzny has served in numerous leadership roles that have cemented his name as a pivotal figure in rendering and meat processing. His role as chairman of the then named National Renderers Association (2005-2007) is remembered through his leadership during critical periods, strengthening the organization and spearheading initiatives that initiated growth and resilience in the face of industry challenges.

Kaluzny has also played a key role on the Executive Committees of both NARA and the FPRF, where his insights have been instrumental in advancing the missions of the organizations. According to NARA, his visionary leadership as chairman of the FPRF has propelled groundbreaking research and innovation, emphasizing sustainability and efficiency within the rendering industry.

Kaluzny’s influence extends globally as well. As chairman of the World Renderers Organization (WRO), he secured a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), granting the WRO observer status at OIE meetings. This agreement has ensured that the rendering industry’s interests are represented on an international stage.

In addition to his industry-wide contributions, he has held influential positions in the Midwest, including president of the Chicago Midwest Meat Association (CMMA) and president of the Food Beverage and Equipment Executives of Chicago (FBEE).

Currently, Kaluzny serves as chair of NARA's Legislative Action Committee, where he leads advocacy efforts to promote the rendering industry’s interests within legislative channels. His commitment is also evident in his past service on a variety of NARA committees, including the Audit and Budget Committee, Community Relations Committee, Convention Planning Committee, Environmental Committee, TSE Committee, and the FPRF Liaison Committee. 

Beyond his organizational leadership, Kaluzny has represented the rendering industry on a national scale, testifying before Congress on behalf of the association to advocate for the rendering industry's needs.

“David Kaluzny II exemplifies the commitment, innovation, and dedication that the Don Franco Award was established to recognize,” said Kent Swisher, NARA president and chief executive officer. “His vision and tireless service have helped to shape the rendering industry. David’s leadership sets a standard for excellence that will benefit the industry for generations to come.”

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