Sioux Falls, SD – The American Coalition for Ethanol (ACE) celebrated leaders and advocates in the ethanol industry at its 38th annual conference in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
The Merle Anderson Award, named for ACE’s founder, went to Rick Schwarck of Absolute Energy, LLC. ACE CEO Brian Jennings and board president Dave Sovereign, representing Golden Grain Energy, presented Schwarck with the honor. The award recognizes individuals who have made lasting contributions to the U.S. ethanol industry. Schwarck, who stepped down as CEO of Absolute Energy last year, continues as board chairman and remains active in ethanol policy, exports, and cancer and aromatics research tied to emissions and biofuels.
“I’m honored to receive an award named after Merle Anderson, a pioneer who inspired so many of us to think bigger and fight harder for ethanol,” Schwarck said. “This industry is full of people who care deeply about rural communities, cleaner air, and giving consumers fuel choices.”
The Grassroots Award was presented posthumously to Greg Veerman for his decades of creative work with ACE, including the “Power by People” brand. His wife, Jane, accepted the award.
ACE also recognized Chief Marketing Officer Ron Lamberty for 25 years of service. Lamberty presented the Paul Dana Marketing Vision Award to the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council for its “It’s Okay to Go Low” E15 campaign, which partnered with Kwik Trip/Kwik Star to emphasize affordability and consumer trust.
Cindy Zimmerman was honored for decades of reporting on the industry as she prepares to retire from business travel in 2025. In addition, Congressman Randy Feenstra (IA) received the 2025 Policy and Legislative Leadership Award for his biofuels advocacy, including year-round E15, RFS, and the 45Z tax credit.
