Guiding Light Award

Created in 2017, the "Guiding Light Award" recognizes lighting industry companies who have demonstrated consistent and enduring efforts to support and fund basic science research to find a cure for cancer.

The Award is presented annually at the Goombay Bash to an individual or company who exemplifies the leadership qualities that will guide others towards a brighter future in which no one will suffer the hardships of this horrible disease. Honorees serve as H Foundation ambassadors within the lighting industry and continue their excellent work in the fight against cancer.

2025 Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award Recipient

Alan Karen

Alan Karen is the Senior Vice President of Global Sales at Satco | Nuvo Lighting, a leading manufacturer of innovative lighting solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. With more than two decades of leadership experience, Alan has been instrumental in expanding Satco’s global presence, building strategic sales initiatives, and strengthening long-term industry relationships. Known for his customer-centric approach and dedication to excellence, Alan continues to drive the lighting industry forward through innovation and collaboration.

Beyond his professional achievements, Alan has been a passionate and long-time supporter of The H Foundation and its mission to find a cure for cancer. Since the early days, Alan has served as a dedicated Ambassador of the Goombay Bash, representing the lighting industry's united commitment to a cause that touches everyone. He’s not only been a consistent presence at the event, but a year-round advocate, encouraging others to “check out The H Foundation and the work they are doing to make a difference in cancer research.”

Watch Alan's Announcement Video

Those who know Alan speak of his humility, kindness, and selflessness—qualities that define both his personal and professional life. For years, he showed up to the Goombay Bash with hope in his heart, supporting the mission for others. Then, in 2024, that mission became personal. Alan was diagnosed with cancer—his own life suddenly shaped by the same fight he had supported for so long. Like The H Foundation’s story, Alan was faced with a choice: let the diagnosis change his course or rise to the challenge. Alan chose to fight.

He battled quietly, and after a hard-fought journey, he received the powerful news that his cancer was undetectable following treatment.

Emerging from that battle with renewed purpose, Alan took on the Goombay Spirit in full—sharing his story to inspire others, promoting the importance of screenings and research, and serving as a beacon of hope for those facing their own battles.

In recognition of his unwavering support, enduring strength, and compassionate leadership, The H Foundation, the Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Committee, and all those devoted to the fight against cancer are proud to honor Alan Karen with the 2025 Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award at the Goombay Bash on Saturday, July 26th.

History and Past Recipients of the Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award

Since its inception in 2001, The H Foundation and its annual Goombay Bash has been celebrated and supported by a sense of community. This grassroots spirit has underscored the message that Cancer is Personal, affecting real people – families, friends, and neighbors.

The “Guiding Lighting Award” was created in 2017 and presented that year to lighting industry companies Generation Lighting, Hinkley, Kichler, Quoizel, Satco, and WAC Lighting to honor their long-term commitment to the H Foundation and to recognize their consistent and enduring efforts to fund basic science research to find a cure cancer. The Award is given annually to an individual or company who exemplifies the leadership qualities that will guide others towards a brighter future in which no one will suffer the hardships of this horrible disease. It celebrates the community spirit that has used ingenuity to shine a spotlight on and raise money for basic science cancer research.

The late Rick Wiedemer, former CEO of Hinkley and a nearly 20-year supporter of The H Foundation, was honored with the 2022 Guiding Light Award at the 20th Annual Goombay Bash.

Rick’s generosity, leadership, and tireless support helped grow The H Foundation’s impact within the Lighting Industry. His commitment to funding basic science cancer research was rooted in one simple belief: “For everyone.”

In recognition of his legacy, the award has been renamed the Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award, honoring his enduring influence and selfless dedication to the fight against cancer.

2024 Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award Recipient

Bill Gildin, President, SATCO Products, Inc.
Make Donation In Honor of Melissa Gildin

2023 Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award Recipients

Dirk & Shelley Wald, Co-CEOs, Schonbek, WAC, Modern Forms

2022 Guiding Light Award Recipient

In 2022, The H Foundation Guiding Light Award was renamed to the Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award to honor Rick’s inspirational legacy within The H Foundation and the Lighting Industry.