2026 John J. Mulrooney Award Nominations Are Now Closed
The call for 2026 John J. Mulrooney Award nominations is now closed.
This prestigious award recognizes individuals who exemplify steadfast leadership, strategic thinking, personal integrity and service to others and the forest products industry.
This year’s award recipient will be announced at Traders Market, taking place Nov. 4–6, 2026, and formally honored at T-100, taking place March 1–3, 2027.
About the John J. Mulrooney Award
Since our founding in 1893, the North American Wholesale Lumber Association has seen many great leaders. One of those was John J. Mulrooney, a career lumber wholesaler who later served as NAWLA’s chief executive for nearly 20 years until his untimely death in 1979.
NAWLA established the John J. Mulrooney Award to commemorate his life and career, emphasizing his important contributions to the forest products industry. Since his passing, NAWLA has recognized an elite group of individuals who exemplify the qualities Mulrooney embodied: steadfast leadership, strategic thinking, personal integrity and service to others.
2025 Recipient: Donna Whitaker
At NAWLA, we are thrilled to honor leaders who inspire with integrity, vision and service — and this year, we proudly present the prestigious John J. Mulrooney Award to Donna Whitaker. Join us in celebrating her remarkable legacy!
Donna Whitaker brings more than 32 years of experience in the lumber industry, holding pivotal roles and building a legacy of leadership and mentorship. She began her career with Rayonier and was part of Interfor’s historic first acquisitions in the Southern U.S. As vice president of sales and marketing at Interfor, Donna has also contributed her leadership to numerous boards, including the Southern Forest Products Association.
Throughout her career, she has been inspired by incredible leaders and mentors who shaped her path and fueled her passion for lifting others up. Known for her strategic insight, collaborative leadership and tireless advocacy, Donna has helped pave the way for women in an industry long dominated by men. Entering her next chapter, she remains deeply committed to advancing women in the forest products industry, creating environments where they are empowered to grow, lead and thrive.
See the Official Mulrooney Award Reveal