At ISC East two weeks ago, Leo Guthart was recognized at the Tri-Association Awards Dinner in New York City. He was named the winner of the George G. Lippert Memorial Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to the security industry.
It does not surprise SIAC in the slightest that Leo won this award. His commitment ran (and runs) deep on multiple critical issues facing the electronic security industry. He leads, innovates and participates in causes that benefit our companies.
As the Chairman of the Board of Directors for SIAC, Leo played a crucial role in our early growth and development. Without him, we wouldn’t be nearly as successful as we are today. His early and long-term commitment to our issues is heartfelt, important and ongoing.
For those unable to hear his remarks in New York, Leo once again focused on the importance of improving alarm management practices. He continues to see the false alarm problem as a potential Achilles heel for companies that manufacture, distribute, service, install or monitor electronic security devices. He is right. We must stay vigilant in working cooperatively with officials throughout the country.
Leo has held several high level, visible positions in our industry. He was recognized for his leadership at Pittway/ADEMCO and then Honeywell/ADEMCO, and is currently senior managing partner of Topspin Partners, L.P. and Topspin Partners, LBO, L.P, Venture Capital and LBO funds, based in Roslyn Heights, N.Y. He could step away, but instead he continues to help our industry.
If police response is lost, the industry is weakened, Leo pointed out in his remarks. We all need to listen to his message, and do our part to be part of the solution.
Thanks, Leo. Keep speaking out.