Sue Cupero, Smith & Wesson's VP of Sales & Marketing, was honored last week during the NASGW Appreciation Dinner with the Chairman's Award, chosen by NASGW Chairwoman Laurie Aronson of Lipsey's. Each year the Chairperson of the NASGW Board of Directors has the opportunity to recognize an individual in the Shooting Sports Industry for decades of service, significant impact, or commitment to working distributors. Recent past recipients include Steve Sanetti of NSSF and Bob Coyle of TALO Distributors.

"Sue Cupero's dedication to our industry and her infectious positivity has helped her climb the ranks at Smith & Wesson," said NASGW Chairwoman Laurie Aronson. "She is one of the rockstars of our industry, and she deserves all the recognition bestowed upon her. Presenting her with this award was an honor for me."

Sue Cupero's rise to VP of Sales and Marketing began in 1979 in the accounting department. After serving the industry for nearly 43 years and building relationships all along the way, this recognition was well deserved.

In addition to receiving the Chairman's Award, Smith & Wesson received the award for Innovator of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year in a three-way tie with Ruger and CZ-USA, and was a finalist for Best New Handgun of the Year for their Shield Plus handgun.

"Smith & Wesson had a big night," said NASGW President Kenyon Gleason. "The cherry on top was seeing Sue recognized with the Chairman's Award. What a great honor for such a well-respected member of our industry. Congrats to Sue and the whole team at Smith & Wesson."

The Appreciation Dinner is the kickoff event for the Annual NASGW Expo. It is an opportunity to thank manufacturer partners that make two-step distribution possible in the shooting sports industry and recognize the companies and products that stood out over the past year. With the NASGW Expo canceled in 2020, this year's Appreciation Dinner and Expo had an added level of excitement as attendees were all thrilled to be back together for an in-person event. The entire week was a great reminder of how meaningful relationships and the NASGW Expo are in the shooting sports industry.