The Awards of Distinction and the True Professional of Arboriculture awards are the highest honors given by ISA. These awards recognize ISA members and credential holders who are role models to their peers and positively represent the profession.

The awards are given based on nominations from ISA members and industry professionals. The ISA Awards Committee reviews the nominations and makes recommendations for the Board of Directors to approve. The awards were presented during the ISA 2026 Annual International Conference held 10-12 August in Detroit, Michigan, U.S.

Awards of Distinction

Award of Merit

Dave Scharfenberger

Former Co-owner and President

Wachtel Tree Science, Inc.

 

L.C. Chadwick Award for Arboricultural Research

Lara Roman, Ph.D.

Research Ecologist

USDA Forest Service

 

Sharon J. Lilly Award of Achievement

Joe Aiken

Senior RTM Great Lakes & Canada

Arborjet | Ecologel

 

Alex L. Shigo Award for Excellence in Arboricultural Education

Gregory Dahle, Ph.D.

Professor

West Virginia University

 

R.W. Harris Author's Citation Award

Andrew D. Hirons, Ph.D.

Senior Lecturer

Myerscough College, UK

 

A.D. Ali, Ph.D.

Manager of Special Projects

Davey Tree Experts

 

Millard F. Blair Award for Exceptional Contribution to Practical Arboriculture

Carlos Llanos-Rojas

Forestry Engineer and CEO

ASFOR Group Cali, Colombia

 

Early-Career Scientist Award

Mysha K. Clarke, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor

University of Florida

 

Honorary Membership

Bob Rouse

Senior Vice President, Industry Expertise

Tree Care Industry Association

 

True Professionals of Arboriculture

Cosijoopii Montero

Director

Extreme Reforestation A.C

 

Wayne S. Dubin

Vice President and Division Manager

Bartlett Tree Experts

 

Adrianne Tanner

Arborist and Contract Coordinator

Barberton Tree Service