Waterkotte praised Klump, who played a paramount role during a time of dramatic change in the association. In March 2014, long-term president Carol Christison passed away from long battle with cancer. “Her loss left a huge hole in our organization,” Waterkotte said.
Klump, who served as IDDBA chairman during this period, demonstrated leadership during this transition that helped IDDBA to a future of new opportunities and set it on its current course, according to Waterkotte. “As we have all seen and experienced, it’s times like these when the leadership of certain individuals helps an organization not only persevere, but succeed,” he said.
The Chairman’s Award recognizes those who put in a lifetime of service and dedication to the industry and have led with vision and commitment. Klump has been a part of IDDBA’s board of directors since 2006. In addition to working for Butterball, he has held several corporate positions with ConAgra, Sara Lee Refrigerated Foods and Hillshire Farm.
