David Kaluzny II was recently honored with the North American Renderers Association's (NARA) 2024 Don Franco Distinguished Service Award, recognizing his significant contributions and leadership in the rendering and meat industries. Kaluzny, from Kaluzny Bros., has been a vital force in shaping the industry, serving in many prominent roles over his career and impacting both national and international rendering practices.
As chairman of the National Renderers Association (now NARA) from 2005-2007, Kaluzny’s leadership helped guide the organization through crucial periods. He has also played a pivotal role in the Fats and Proteins Research Foundation (FPRF) as chair, leading innovation initiatives focused on sustainability and efficiency. His global influence is exemplified through his work with the World Renderers Organization (WRO), where he brokered an agreement with the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), establishing observer status for the WRO and ensuring the rendering industry's interests on a worldwide platform.
In addition to these international contributions, Kaluzny has been active in the midwest, leading organizations like the Chicago Midwest Meat Association (CMMA) and the Food Beverage and Equipment Executives of Chicago (FBEE), which has fostered regional industry collaboration.
Kaluzny currently chairs the NARA Legislative Action Committee, directing advocacy efforts to ensure the rendering industry's voice in policy discussions, and he also heads the FPRF Nominating Committee, focusing on cultivating future leaders in the field.
Beyond his industry roles, Kaluzny has represented the rendering industry before Congress, leveraging his education in business administration and finance from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. At NARA’s 2024 annual convention in Santa Barbara, California, he received the Don Franco Award from NARA Chairman Michael Glenn, marking a crowning achievement in his career and setting a benchmark for leadership in the rendering industry.
According to NARA President and CEO Kent Swisher, "David Kaluzny II exemplifies the commitment, innovation, and dedication that the Don Franco Award was established to recognize," adding that his leadership will benefit the industry for years to come.
