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.

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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.

2025 Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award Recipient

Alan Karen, Senior Vice President of Global Sales, SATCO | NUVO Lighting

2024 Rick Wiedemer Guiding Light Award Recipient

Bill Gildin, President, SATCO Products, Inc.
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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.