New York State Motor Truck Association President Kendra Hems was named the 13th recipient of the American Trucking Associations President's Trucking Association Executives Council Leadership Award during the group's annual Management Conference & Exhibition. “Tenacious is a word used to describe Kendra when it comes to fighting issues in New York such as congestion pricing, toll increases and employee misclassification,” said outgoing ATA Chairman Phil Byrd, president of Bulldog Hiway Express, Charleston, S.C. “A strong coalition builder, Kendra, along with ATA and the business community, was able to defeat a proposed 45% toll increase and worked closely with the ATA Litigation Center to challenge the diversion of toll revenues.” In addition, Hems was recognized for her efforts on the industry’s image, including spearheading a state fundraising drive for and securing a long-term commitment to the Trucking Moves America Forward movement. “Kendra operates in one of the most difficult political and regulatory environments in the nation. Her proactive professionalism and consistent success have been of great benefit to both her members and all of ATA. This award and the esteem of her colleagues is well earned,” said Ed Crowell, president of the Georgia Motor Trucking Association and current TAEC chairman.