Each year, we recognize the individuals and companies who define excellence in employee ownership—those advancing ESOPs, strengthening our community, and setting the standard for what’s possible.

These leaders are driving employee ownership to new heights—and represent the very best of us.

Welcome to Volume 41, Issue 5 of the ESOP Report This month we've packed the report with tons of articles and news about ESOPs that you won't want to miss!

Inside this Issue:

• TEA’s National Conference 2026: Building Momentum and Energy Across Policy, Leadership, and Culture
• The Dawn of an ESOP Renaissa

California/Nevada

Employee Owner of the Year

Jennifer Pierce
HdL Companies

ESOP Company of the Year

Pavement Recycling Systems

Florida

Employee Owner of the Year

Annette Knopp
KMI International

ESOP Company of the Year

CFS

If you couldn’t join us in Washington, DC for The ESOP Association’s National Conference in May, you missed one of the most engaging, educational, and fun events of the year! 

On Thursday, May 15, Jim VandeHei, co-founder of POLITICO and Axios gave a captivating keynote address followed by an insightful conversation with The ESOP As

The ESOP Association’s 2025 National Conference is right around the corner!

Kathryn Daly

Chartwell Capital Solutions

Jeffrey Gelburd

Murray Securus

Ted Becker

Drinker Biddle