The American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) has announced that Darrell Smith, president and CEO of the National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA), has earned the Certified Association Executive (CAE©) designation. The CAE is the highest professional credential in the association industry.

To be designated as a Certified Association Executive, an applicant must have experience with nonprofit organization management, complete a minimum of 100 hours of specialized professional development, pass a stringent examination in association management and pledge to uphold a code of ethics. To maintain the certification, individuals must undertake ongoing professional development and activities in association and nonprofit management. More than 4,700 association professionals currently hold the CAE credential. The CAE program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.

Smith also holds a bachelor of science degree from The Citadel, a masters of public health in environmental science and a PhD in environmental conflict. He is a Certified Industrial Hygienist by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene, a certified Sustainability Associate from the International Society of Sustainability Professionals and a Sustainable Business Associate from the U.S. Green Chamber of Commerce.

As part of a new NWRA staff development initiative, several other staff members are studying for professional certification exams in an effort to ensure that NWRA staff remain on top of their game and are delivering exceptional value to the NWRA membership.

For more information, visit www.wasterecycling.org.

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