Honoring Volunteerism & Dedication Within the TEA
Since 2012, the Distinguished Service Award has recognized TEA members who go above and beyond in their volunteer efforts to support the Themed Entertainment Association.
In 2017, the award was renamed in honor of the late Peter Chernack –TEA President, lifelong volunteer, and passionate advocate for the industry.
This award is not based on career accomplishments, but on a consistent pattern of selfless service and meaningful contributions to the TEA community.
NOMINATIONS ARE DUE 5 SEPTEMBER 2025!
What Makes This Award Unique?
- Focus: Volunteer service, not career milestones
- Recipients: Typically avoid the spotlight and recognition
- Purpose: Celebrate the spirit of giving back that sustains the TEA
About Peter Chernack
Peter Chernack was a:
- Themed entertainment industry innovator
- Former TEA President
- Devoted volunteer and mentor
- Advocate for the TEA's mission
He passed away in 2016, leaving behind a 40-year legacy of leadership and service.
Award Eligibility
To be considered, nominees must:
- Be a TEA member in good standing
- Have 5+ years of involvement in both the industry and TEA
- Show exceptional contributions to TEA projects or programs
- Be able to attend the Thea Awards Gala to accept the award
Not Eligible:
- Current TEA International Board directors (including Divisional Presidents)
Note: Non-president divisional board members are eligible
- Members of the TEA Past Presidents Council
- Recipients of:
- TEA Master Award
- Buzz Price Lifetime Achievement Award
Receiving this award does not disqualify someone from receiving a TEA Master or Lifetime Achievement award in the future.
Nomination Process
When:
- Each July, nominations open to all TEA members
Who Can Nominate:
- Any TEA member
- Divisional Boards are encouraged to prioritize nominations
What to Include:
- Nominee’s name & contact info
- Statement detailing their volunteer contributions
- Nominator’s name, contact info, and date
NOMINATIONS ARE DUE 5 SEPTEMBER 2025
Selection Process
- Verification: Nominations reviewed by the TEA Past Presidents Council (PPC) Chair
- Review: Council members evaluate nominations in September
- Voting: PPC selects one candidate (or none) by majority vote
- Approval: Nominee submitted to the TEA International Board
- Outcome:
- If approved: Nominee becomes the recipient
- If rejected: PPC submits an alternate
- If alternate is rejected: No award given that year
Nominations remain valid for 3 years and can be resubmitted after expiration.
Award Presentation
Where: Annual TEA Thea Awards Gala
Includes:
- On-stage recognition
- Award plaque presentation
- Recipient acceptance speech
Questions?
Contact terry@teaconnect.org for more details about the award or nomination process.
2025 PETER CHERNACK AWARD RECIPIENT
PREVIOUS PETER CHERNACK AWARD RECIPIENTS
2024
David Green & Lisa Passamonte Green
2023
Kevin Murphy & Peter Weishar
2022
Lynn Allmandinger
2021
Dale Sprague
2020
Wendy Heinmann-Nunes
2019
Michel Linet-Frion
2018
Annika Oetken & Joe Fox
2017
Peter Chernack (awarded posthumously)
2016
John Robinett
2015
Pat MacKay
2014
Karen McGee
2013
Judith Rubin
2012
Gene Jeffers