The Pennsylvania Turfgrass Council's Dr. George W. Hamilton, Jr. Distinguished Service Award is presented to individuals who have exhibited outstanding service to the turfgrass industry. The award is considered PTC’s highest individual honor and recipients are recognized by the membership in a formal ceremony at the PTC winter conferences. The 2025 Award is presented to David Guerin, Jr. 

For more than half a century, Dave Guerin Jr. has been a pillar of the turfgrass and golf course management community. His journey at E.H. Griffith, Inc. began humbly—working in the warehouse, unloading fertilizer from rail cars, and serving customers face-to-face. From those early days, Dave absorbed every detail of the business, building a foundation of knowledge and respect for the industry that would shape his career.

After earning his business degree from Penn State University, Dave returned to E.H. Griffith with renewed purpose. Rising through the ranks to vice president and ultimately president, he carried forward the legacy of his father while forging his own path of leadership. His tenure has been marked not only by business success but by an unwavering commitment to service, integrity, and community.

Dave’s contributions to the industry are widely recognized. He has consistently invested in the future of the profession, offering financial support to both local and national golf associations and funding turfgrass scholarships for Penn State students. His philosophy of “paying it forward” has ensured that generations of young professionals have the opportunity to thrive.

Equally important is the culture Dave has cultivated at E.H. Griffith. He surrounds himself with a team he considers family, instilling values of respect, integrity, and dedication to customer service. Many of his employees have spent their entire careers at the company, a testament to the environment he has nurtured. Under his leadership, E.H. Griffith has earned numerous national awards for sales and service—achievements rooted in Dave’s genuine appreciation for the turfgrass industry.

Dave Guerin Jr.’s career is more than a story of professional success; it is a testament to the power of legacy, mentorship, and community. His decades of service, his generosity, and his leadership embody the very spirit of this honor.

PTC congratulates David on this award!