For Immediate Release                                                                   

For Immediate Release
Contact: Andrea DiMickele
(480) 968-2552
Andrea@nsaspeaker.org

National Speakers Association Honors William E. Strickland, Jr. with Master of Influence Award
 
(Tempe, Ariz. 25, 2008) The National Speakers Association (NSA), the leading organization for professional speakers, presented William E. Strickland, Jr. with its 2008 Master of Influence Award at NSA's 2008 National Convention, August 2-5, in New York, N.Y. 
 
The award is presented to speakers who have significantly influenced generations of speakers and whose distinguished careers have brought honor and recognition to the speaking profession. Strickland is only the tenth person to be honored with this award in NSA's 35-year history.
 
"Strickland was our unanimous choice for Master of Influence," says Mark LeBlanc, 2007-08 NSA President. "His impact with people touches hearts, engages minds, and stir souls.  He is one of those rare individuals who makes a difference every single day.  In addition, he moves others to get involved and make a difference as well.  The ripple effect of his efforts will be felt for years to come."
 
Strickland is the President and CEO of Manchester Bidwell Corporation and its subsidiaries, Manchester Craftsman's Guild and Bidwell Training Center, both founded in 1968.  Over the past thirty years, Strickland has been transforming the lives of thousands of people through the creation of Manchester Bidwell, a jobs training center and community arts program.  Working with corporations, community leaders and schools, he and his staff strive to give disadvantaged kids and adults the opportunities and tools they need to envision and build a better, brighter future.  

"To be honored by an organization that represents the premier spekers in the United States and a significant international following is extraordinary and an honor i will cherish for all time," says Strickland about recieving the Master of Influence award.
 
Strickland resides in Pittsburgh, Pa. with his wife rose and daughters Julie and Olivia.  
 
 The National Speakers Association (NSA) is the leading organization for professional speakers. NSA's thousands of members include experts in a variety of industries and disciplines, who reach audiences as trainers, educators, humorists, motivators, consultants, authors and more.  Since 1973, NSA has provided resources and education designed to advance the skills, integrity and value of its members and speaking profession. Visit NSA's Web site at www.nsaspeaker.org.

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