Running a pair of associations in New York and New Jersey, Paula Frendel stays busy.

During the NIADA Awards Ceremony, Frendel was honored by her fellow state executive directors. The New York and New Jersey Executive Director, Paula Frendel, CAE, was named the AEC of the Year.

“This is the greatest honor with all the amazing executive directors we have in the U.S.,” Frendel said. “It’s a true honor, especially since it’s voted on by your peers.”

The 2023 AEC of the Year David Cardella announced the honor for Frendel, while praising the work of all the state association leaders.

Frendel was one of four finalists, along with Amy Bennett, GIADA; Karen Brown, TNIADA; and Annette Chapman, MIADA.

“They all do a tremendous job. I think they all deserve this honor,” Cardella said.

Frendel has led the NYIADA since 2012. She helped organize the NJIADA. She monitors legislation being considered in the legislatures of each state and works to keep dealers up-to-date with the regulations.

This past year Frendel completed coursework and passed the exam to become an ASAE Certified Association Executive. She is one of just 4,500 association professionals to earn the honor.