2010 International Educator of the Year

Wing Ding 32 which was held in Des Moines, Iowa was the setting for the awarding of the International Rider Education Merit Awards.  Additionally, the Rider Educator of the Year was presented to the top Educator in the association which includes all of the North Continent, New Zealand, England, Denmark, Puerto Rico, and Israel. 

Nominations were submitted by those having knowledge of the efforts of these fine Educators, stating why they should be considered for the prestigious award.

The number of nominations far exceeded the awards to be presented, and the International Rider Education Staff was asked to choose the final nominees. 

At the Masters Breakfast held at Wing Ding, there were 4 Merit Awards presented for Medic First and 4 for Motorist Awareness.  Following the presentation of those awards, the International Staff awarded 15 Rider Education Merit Awards to Educators from across the world.

In a unanimous selection, the winner of the 2009-2010 Rider Educator of Year award was presented to West Virginia Senior District Educator, Don Henrey. 

Don Henrey has taken the Rider Education program in West Virginia to new heights in his effort to bring educational opportunities to the members.   Don has become a certified Rider Coach in both the ARC and TRC, filling a tremendous need within the Region.

He has traveled at his own expense to attend training in Ohio as well as volunteering to assist teaching Rider courses within the Region at the Virginia Convention. 

His interest in Medic First along with the other outstanding Instructors has led West Virginia to now possess one of the most productive Medic First programs in the Region. 

It is through hardwork, and a team attitude that Don along with the other fine Officers of West Virginia have built a solid foundation for Rider Education within West Virginia. 

Congratulations to Don Henrey, and also to his lovely wife, Charlotte who has been there for Don and the members through it all. 

Gene & Betty Knutson

International Directors, Rider Education

GWRRA