NSU instructor receives prestigious award from Special Libraries Association

BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — The Special Libraries Association (SLA) recently named Northeastern State University instructor Tom Rink as the recipient of its 2023 John Cotton Dana Award. Named after its founder and first president, the prestigious award is bestowed upon an information professional who has demonstrated a lifetime of remarkable accomplishments, as well as exceptional service to SLA and the library and information profession.

"It is always very humbling to receive awards,” Rink said. “The Special Libraries Association has been my professional 'home' for my entire career and has provided me with a multitude of volunteer opportunities to support my growth and to expand my leadership skills.”

Rink, a former police officer turned librarian, currently works as an instructor for Library Services at NSU on the Broken Arrow campus and is the resource coordinator/faculty liaison for both the College of Liberal Arts as well as the Gregg Wadley College of Science & Health Professions.

He has been an active member of SLA and has held numerous leadership positions at every level, including president of the association. Rink was inducted into the SLA Hall of Fame in 2020.

“Volunteering is built into my DNA, and while I have never volunteered to seek recognition or accolades, to be named the recipient of SLA's highest award, the John Cotton Dana Award, is an honor beyond my expectations,” Rink said.

About SLA
The Special Libraries Association is a nonprofit international organization for innovative information professionals and their strategic partners. SLA serves information to professionals in more than 60 countries and in a range of working environments, including business, academia and government agencies. SLA promotes and strengthens its members through learning, advocacy and networking initiatives. For more information, visit sla.org