The Cavett Award
The Cavett Award is the National Speakers Association’s most cherished award. It is presented annually to the member whose accomplishments over the years have reflected outstanding credit, respect, honor and admiration in the Association and in the speaking profession, and whose actions most closely parallel the illustrious career of NSA’s Founder Cavett Robert, CSP, CPAE. Since it was established in 1973, NSA's strength has sprung from its Founder Cavett, whose love, encouragement, generosity and wisdom embody the spirit of NSA today.
Since it was established in 1973, NSA's strength has sprung from its Founder
Cavett Robert, CSP, CPAE
His love, encouragement, generosity, and wisdom embody the spirit of NSA today and continue to guide the Association as it grows in number and diversity.
Humility, generosity, and teamwork are just a few of the qualities Cavett possessed, and in fine professional-speaking style, expressed so eloquently. Cavett once said to NSA Past President Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE, "You guys have done so much more with this (NSA) than I ever imagined." The truth was that NSA members have simply built upon the legacy that he humbly established for us.
Likewise, Cavett displayed an uncanny ability to inspire others and share his wisdom and expertise. "A desire to help others is our most noble attribute; it gives immortal momentum to life and is our only certain path to heaven," he would say. Hence, the Cavett Award, the highest award bestowed by NSA, was created to celebrate and honor those members whose careers demonstrate the spirit of sharing, guiding and inspiring other professional speakers.
The Cavett Award is NSA's most cherished award.
It is presented annually to the member whose accomplishments over the years have reflected outstanding credit, respect, honor, and admiration in the Association and the speaking profession, and whose actions (in terms of sharing, guiding, and inspiring other members) most closely parallel the illustrious career of our Founder Cavett Robert, CSP, CPAE.
Recipients
2025
Brian Walter, CSP, CPAE
2024
Scott McKain, CSP, CPAE
2023
Dr. Willie Jolley, CSP, CPAE
2022
Ruby Newell-Legner, CSP
2021
John B. Molidor, PhD, CSP
2019
Phillip Van Hooser, MBA, CSP, CPAE
2018
Terry Brock, CSP, CPAE
2017
Randy Pennington, CSP, CPAE
2016
Lenora Billings-Harris, CSP
2015
Gary Rifkin, CSP
2014
Chris Clarke-Epstein, CSP
2013
Scott Friedman, CSP
2012
Stephen Tweed, CSP
2011
W Mitchell, CSP, CPAE
2010
Jim Rhode, CSP
2009
Louis Heckler, CSP, CPAE
2008
Michael McKinley, CSP, CPAE
2007
Mark H. Sanborn, CSP, CPAE
2006
Charles E. "Tremendous" Jones, CPAE
2005
Glenna Salsbury, CSP, CPAE
2004
Terry Paulson, CSP, CPAE
2003
Pat Vivo, CSP, CPAE
2002
Bob Murphey, CPAE
2001
Zig Ziglar, CPAE
2000
Jim Tunney, EdD, CSP, CPAE
1999
Edward E. Scannell, CSP, CMP
1998
Al Walker, CSP, CPAE
1997
Naomi R. Rhode, CSP, CPAE
1996
Patricia Fripp, CSP, CPAE
1995
Thomas J. Winninger, CSP, CPAE
1994
George Morrisey, CSP, CPAE
1993
Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE
1992
D. John Hammond, CPAE
1991
Rosita Perez, CPAE
1990
D. Michael Frank, CSP, CPAE
1989
Jeanne Robertson, CSP, CPAE
1988
Robert H. Henry, CSP, CPAE
1987
Doc Blakely, CSP, CPAE
1986
Don Hutson, CSP, CPAE
1985
Nido R. Qubein, CSP, CPAE
1984
Ira M. Hayes, CPAE
1983
Joe Larson, CSP, CPAE
1982
Ty Boyd, CSP, CPAE
1981
Dave Yoho, CPAE
1980
William H. Gove, CSP, CPAE
1979
Cavett Robert, CSP, CPAE