NTSA Honors Richard Ford with Bob D. Schiller Award

    ARLINGTON, VA, January 16, 2020 /24-7PressRelease/ -- The National Tax-Deferred Savings Association (NTSA) has honored Richard H. Ford with its Bob D. Schiller Award for his lifetime achievements and meritorious service.

The award, bestowed posthumously on Ford, recognizes individuals who have given freely of themselves, their time and resources to the NTSA and to the 403(b), 457 and nonprofit retirement plan industry — individuals who have gone above and beyond expectations. It is named in memory of Bob Schiller, an enthusiastic supporter of the NTSA who devoted his time and energy to its success.

Ford, who died suddenly at the age of 67 on March 14, 2019, led by both word and action. He remained committed to the success of NTSA throughout his time with the organization, dating back to its formation in the late 1980s, and he was focused on increasing industry value, achieving growth for advisors and fulfilling clients' needs. In addition to that support, Ford was an extraordinary community volunteer and promoter. Ford served as a fundraising chairman for Santa Barbara County Channel City YMCA and Santa Barbara Dream Foundation (the latter granting wishes to terminally ill children), and for many years, he taught a water therapy and movement class for arthritic and sports injury victims at the Montecito YMCA, where he also served on the Board of Directors.

Ford's contributions and legacy were further acknowledged this year with the establishment of the NTSA Richard H. Ford Volunteer Service Award. This new award recognizes and promotes NTSA members' volunteer and service work, both with NTSA and with their local governmental and nonprofit communities.

Said NTSA President and NTSA Awards Committee Chair Kris Coffey, "Who was not encouraged by Richard? Who wasn't buoyed by his support, his joie de vive, his commitments, his engaging smile, his love for others, his passion for the industry, his ability to forge forward and to think outside the box, his sense of community, his wholistic approach … we have lost a leader, a friend, a torch bearer and a valiant gentleman."

About the National Tax-Deferred Savings Association (NTSA)

Formed in 1989, the National Tax-Deferred Savings Association (NTSA), part of the American Retirement Association, represents nearly 7000 financial advisors, consultants, administrators, and product creators and providers. NTSA has been nationally recognized for its thought leadership and policy expertise regarding public-sector retirement plans. NTSA represents its membership in Washington, D.C. and state capitals across the country to address issues and design retirement plans that improve employee outcomes. NTSA also provides high-quality education, professional development, and information resources for those involved in the 403(b), 457 and nonprofit marketplace.

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