02/24/2009
Selma's Jere Peak Presented NWTF's Top Honor
 Jere Peak received the Five-Star Award—the NWTF's highest volunteer recognition—during the NWTF's Convention and Sport Show. Click image for print quality version |
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Jere Peak, of Selma, Ala., received the National Wild Turkey Federation's Five-Star Award during the Federation's 33rd annual Convention and Sport Show, held in Nashville, Tenn., Feb. 19 to Feb. 22.
The Five-Star Award is the NWTF's highest volunteer recognition. The NWTF's Five-Star Award is not given every year and, in fact, only four other outstanding volunteers have received it.
"Jere's outstanding leadership has helped move the Federation forward," said Peggy Anne Vallery, president of the NWTF. "He's a man of honor who has earned the respect of the board of directors, staff and membership as well as the outdoor industry. Jere's tremendous dedication to promoting the Federation's mission and his reputation as a good man and leader make him a deserving recipient of the Five-Star Award."
An NWTF Patron Life Sponsor member, Peak is currently chairman of the NWTF national board of directors and the nominating committee. He also serves as a member of the strategic planning, compensation, awards and executive committees. Peak was first elected to the board of directors in 1999 and has served as president and vice president.
"The past recipients of this award are volunteers that have dedicated their lives to the Federation, so it's an incredible honor to follow in their path," Peak said. "Having volunteers trust me enough to elect me to the national board of directors, and then honor me with this award, is very flattering. I am happy to have made some small contribution."
As a volunteer, Peak has served in many capacities in his local and state chapters including serving as president of the Alabama State Chapter and of his local chapter, as a member of the Alabama State Board of Directors and as banquet chairman for his local chapter.
Peak helped organize his local NWTF chapter in Selma, which was recognized in 2006 as a member of the half a million dollar club; in 2005 as a 15-year Golden Gobbler Chapter, and earned the prestigious L.A. Dixon award in 1992. The chapter has held 18 consecutive Golden Gobbler banquets to date.
"I'm fortunate to be part of a sport and an organization I truly love," Peak said. "The NWTF is more than just turkey hunting. It's also about plugging into conservation, passing on hunting traditions to youth, helping people with disabilities, sharing outdoor experiences with women and so much more. The NWTF appeals to people in so many areas, and that's why it's been so successful."
Peak earned a business degree from Auburn University in Auburn, Ala., where he majored in marketing. He is part owner of an independent insurance agency and Peak serves the National Board of Directors for the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America as an Alabama director. He and his wife Peggy have been married for 31 years and have three children.
