Become a Hemphill NIFA Member

The “Spirit of NIFA” Award was established in 2021 in honor of the late Gary Hemphill. Gary’s NIFA involvement began in 1978 as a student in Region IV. He humbly volunteered as SAFECON support, host school advisor at Northeast Louisiana University (NLU), and as Region IV representative. Gary served in the U.S. Air Force and later completed his Master’s Degree at NLU, where he also taught and coached. From 1985-2011 he guided the organization as Executive Director of NIFA, while also spending his career as an Aviation Professor, Department Chair, and Flight Team Advisor at Delta State University. Not only did Gary carry NIFA on his shoulders and in his heart for over 26 years, but without him NIFA would not be where it is today. In 2011, NIFA awarded Gary its highest honor, the Founder’s Award, for his dedication and service to the organization. There have been only 10 recipients of this award in NIFA history. NIFA owes Gary much more than this award. NIFA owes its future to Gary.

The Gary Hemphill “Spirit of NIFA” Award will be presented to a person who exemplifies the same
passion toward humbly serving others, while leading a life of dedication and commitment to
excellence for future generations.

You can support NIFA in a special way and support the Spirit of NIFA Award by becoming a Hemphill NIFA Member at any amount. Your membership will directly support the Award.