Excellence in Cooperating Association Partnership

The Excellence in Cooperating Association Partnership Award recognizes an individual who has made significant and lasting contributions throughout their career to strengthen partnerships between the National Park Service and cooperating associations.

This award was named the James V. Murfin Award from 1988 to 2023. The National Park Service is shifting to more descriptive award names that clearly reflect the work awarded. We will continue to recognize the individuals who inspired or influenced these awards.

James V. Murfin

James V. Murfin served as a Servicewide Cooperating Association Coordinator and worked diligently for more than a decade to encourage excellence and innovation in the partnership between cooperating associations and NPS. Murfin’s efforts in the areas of publishing, training, and marketing enabled associations to increase the quality and selection of educational and interpretive materials. Murfin’s vision and commitment continue to influence those who work with the National Park Service and cooperating associations, providing inspiration, and ensuring success for a partnership that continues to flourish. Read a brief biography of James V. Murfin.

Additional Award Recipients

Year	Recipient	Postion/Organization
2019	Cathy Bonser	Executive Director Redwoods
2018	Stacy Madalena	Eastern National
2017	Deborah K. Piscitelli	Harpers Ferry Historical Association
2015	George Minnucci	Eastern National Regional Manager
2014	Linda Lutz-Ryan	NPS Intermountain Region Cooperating Association Coordinator
2012	Rosalyn Fennel	NPS Washington Servicing Office (and Bevinetto Fellow)
2010	Terry Maddox	Great Smoky Mountain Association
2008	Charley Money	Alaska Geographic
2006	Chesley Moroz	Eastern National
2004	Christina Watkins	Graphic Designer
2002	Greg Moore	Golden Gate Conservancy