Washington, D.C.—SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small Business” presents the Walter H. Channing Award of Excellence to Emmett Gumm of Delray Beach, Fla. Gumm receives the Channing Award for his volunteer service and leadership in an organization-wide restructuring that resulted in a stronger focus on the client, professionalism and a proactive approach to community outreach.

The Walter H. Channing Award recognizes individual volunteers for their outstanding service to SCORE. Gumm was given the award at the national SCORE Chapter Chair Orientation in Nashville, Tenn.

Gumm joined SCORE in 1988 after a 20-year career of senior sales, marketing and marketing management positions. As a SCORE volunteer, Gumm held numerous leadership positions including chapter chair, state district director and regional director. In October 1998, Gumm became president of SCORE.

Under Gumm’s leadership, SCORE made great strides to streamline operations. He is an ambassador for SCORE and has helped increase awareness of the value of SCORE counseling and services to the small business community. Gumm has been a strong advocate for lifelong learning and bringing new ideas and opportunities to the small business marketplace.

SCORE CEO Ken Yancey says, “Emmett represents a commitment to excellence and a steadfast dedication to SCORE’s mission of service to America’s small businesses.” Yancey adds, “Emmett led SCORE through a time of transition with a focus on the future of SCORE as a leading service organization—serving millions of Americans.”

Since 1964, SCORE “Counselors to America’s Small Business” has assisted more than 7 million aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners through counseling and business workshops. More than 10,500 volunteer business counselors in 389 chapters serve their communities through entrepreneur education dedicated to the formation, growth and success of small businesses.

For more information about starting or operating a small business, call 1-800/634-0245 for the SCORE chapter nearest you. Or, visit SCORE on the Web at www.score.org.