The National Coffee Association (NCA) named Stephen Schulman, licensed Q grader at S&D Coffee & Tea, as its 2014 Volunteer of the Year. The award was presented at the NCA annual convention in New Orleans last month. Based on strict criteria developed by the NCA’s External & Member Relations Board Committee, the Volunteer of the Year award recognizes one individual’s outstanding efforts, energy, and leadership skills.

“We could not be more pleased about this recognition of Stephen’s many contributions to the NCA,” says S&D vice president of marketing John Buckner. “He knows coffee inside and out, has a passion that’s supported by tremendous acuity and talent, and he’s incredibly generous with his expertise.”

Schulman’s contributions to the NCA community have included development of several unique blends used for special purposes, such as the Congressional Blend served at NCA’s Coffee on the Hill event and sent to every member of Congress, and the MyVirtualCoffeehouse blend offered as a featured promotional item in an NCA promotional campaign. Schulman has also conducted cupping instruction at NCA conventions and served as an expert participant on committees and task forces. 

“This award was a complete surprise,” Schulman says. “I just enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for specialty coffees and helping to promote the cause.”