When I first stepped into the IT Nation community, I never imagined how transformative this journey would be. Last week, as I stood on stage at IT Nation Connect 2024 to receive the Partner Excellence Award, I was overwhelmed with gratitude—not just for the recognition, but for the incredible people and shared mission that make IT Nation so much more than a professional network. 

The IT Nation Torch Awards were created to honor individuals and organizations reshaping the IT channel through innovation, leadership, and a “Go-Giver” spirit. Receiving this recognition is a humbling reminder of the power of community and collaboration.

For me, the “Go-Giver” philosophy isn’t just an abstract idea—it’s a guiding principle. Inspired by the examples of Arlin Sorensen, Nancy and Laurie Sorensen, Peter Sorensen, and Bob Burg, I’ve seen firsthand how putting others first leads to transformative growth. Their mentorship and unwavering commitment to serving others in the marketplace have been life-changing, not just for me but for countless others in our community. 

The IT Nation’s motto, “Wise Together, Rise Together,” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this community. Whether it’s encouraging peers to join Evolve groups, supporting members through successful transactions, or celebrating the achievements of our partners, we are stronger when we work together. 

To my fellow honorees—CompTIA, First Column Enterprises, Fusion Technology Solutions, Xyber Solutions, Senteon, and Rich Freeman—you exemplify what it means to drive meaningful change in our industry. Your dedication inspires me to push harder and give back more. 

IT Nation Connect is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of the relationships and ideas that fuel progress in the IT channel. As I accepted the award, I reflected on the incredible journey we’ve taken as a community. The photo below captures a moment that will stay with me forever—standing alongside Gregg Lalle, the visionary leader behind IT Nation, who has tirelessly championed the values we hold dear. 

This award is not the culmination of a journey but a reminder of the work still ahead. Together, we can continue to grow, innovate, and support one another in achieving new heights. Whether you’re an MSP considering joining an Evolve group or an industry veteran looking to mentor others, there’s a place for you in this community. 

To everyone at IT Nation—thank you for this incredible honor. To my colleagues at FOCUS Investment Banking, thank you for your support and partnership. And to those considering how they can make a difference in this industry, I encourage you to embrace the “Go-Giver” philosophy. Together, we truly can rise. 

Here’s to the future of IT Nation and the transformative power of community. 

Read the related press release here.