2026 Perry Burkhart, Jr. Award of Excellence Winner
Left to Right: Dave’s wife, Clair, Dave Sawin, and President Lori Burkhart Isbell.
“I have always been a work ethic guy,” explains Dave Sawin, Burkhart Northern Division Sales Director.
“Growing up on a farm provided me with that foundation, and I have always firmly believed that if you have a very strong work ethic, the foundation of success is there for the taking. Of course, it takes more than just that to succeed.” He further explains that having core competencies added to that foundation creates a clearer, easier path to success.
These attributes are clear in his leadership today: “All the attributes that come with being an Iowa farmer – the early mornings, working day in and day out, responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness, applied practicality and a fair share of grit – are all in his formula,” agrees Oregon Regional Sales Manager Ric Vordermark. “These traits ground him and have molded him to be a wonderful representative of Burkhart.”
Dave being congratulated on receiving his award.
It’s clear, then, why Dave was selected as the 2026 recipient of the Perry Burkhart, Jr. Award of Excellence. Director of Special Markets- Southern Division Sales Director Skip Pettus puts it best: “Dave Sawin’s selection [of the award] was not a surprise to me or the people that work with him daily! Who he is as a person and leader exemplifies what the award is focused on—financial performance, servant leadership, and community building.”
After 12 years with Burkhart, Dave was formally recognized at the Burkhart Annual Sales Meeting earlier this year by President Lori Burkhart Isbell, “in recognition of his exceptional leadership, financial acumen, and unwavering commitment to our people and organization,” according to the nomination form.
Dave’s wife, Clair, was brought in to surprise him in the moment.
Looking back at the moment of recognition, Dave recalls a wave of emotion as the announcement began. “About halfway through Lori’s comments, she mentioned corporate clients I’m responsible for, and that’s when it started to sink in,” he remembers. “It was a flood of emotions from shock and surprise to deep appreciation. To have that recognized so publicly was greatly appreciated.”
For Dave, the recognition reflects team success as much as an individual achievement. “It’s a really meaningful way for the company to show appreciation for the work my team and I accomplish,” he says. “Numerous associates are worthy of this award, so to be recognized as the recipient is both humbling and rewarding. It reinforces that hard work is noticed and valued.”
His award nomination pointed to several key strengths, such as his ability to exceed expectations in his role, consistently providing both strategic oversight and hands-on execution. Dave has stepped in to fill gaps in the Regional Sales Manager role when needed, ensuring continuity for both clients and associates, and played a critical role in maintaining relationships with major partners, such as Willamette Dental and Best for Dentistry, during periods of transition.
Dave Sawin speaking at the Annual Sales Meeting
“Dave is always willing to roll up his sleeves and do the hard work right alongside his team. He steps up to help where needed with a cheerful disposition. He truly cares about Burkhart, his team, and the success of both,” reads the nomination. The nomination continues: “Dave demonstrates an ability to quickly assess challenges, implement practical solutions, and maintain financial discipline, especially during periods of transition and change.” Dave is recognized as a true model of servant leadership. He is recognized for leading by example and embodying the values of Burkhart, by how he prioritizes the needs of others, invests in Associate development, and remains client-focused in decisions.
Dave Explains His Philosophy:
“I want and expect to be able to trust and respect every person on my team. I will support them to the moon when the intent and work ethic are pulling in the same direction as expectations. When that trust is broken, there is work to be done!” Colleagues and Associates alike cite Dave’s friendly demeanor, attitude, and his ability to lead by example. He was recognized for his ability to build community: “He intentionally fosters a supportive, collaborative environment that encourages collaboration across all departments. By creating opportunities for connection and open dialogue, he helps cultivate a culture of creativity and innovation that supports Burkhart’s broader objectives.”
At the center of his leadership philosophy is trust. “I want people to be part of the decision and the solution,” he explains. “That creates buy-in and accountability.”
More congratulatory hugs and handshakes from colleagues.
His guiding principle is simple but powerful: “It takes seven minutes to gain trust, seven seconds to lose it, and seven years to get it back.”
While results matter, Dave believes how those results are achieved matters just as much. “At Burkhart, the primary goals are achieving our financial and sales targets. However, financial success is not true success unless we do it the right way,” he says, “and execute against the core pillars of the company: through integrity, knowledge, and client success.”
Those who work closely with him describe a leader who is both driven and authentic.
Ric Vordermark calls him “a leader, not a manager.” He adds that Dave’s approachable nature and open energy make him someone people are naturally drawn to. “Dave is genuine, kind, observant, and wonderfully unassuming,” Ric says. “He’s levelheaded, firm and understanding, and never misses an opportunity to be of service. Dave is tireless, an inexhaustible source of support and coaching.”
Skip Pettus sums it up simply: “Dave ‘walks the walk.’ He is truly dedicated to uplifting both the people and the organization to a higher standard. His blend of heart, results focus, and service make Dave an exceptional—and deserving— recipient of this award.”
Once again, congratulations to Dave for such a well-deserved accomplishment.
About the Perry Burkhart, Jr. Award of Excellence
The Perry Burkhart, Jr. Award of Excellence was established in 2020 as the highest award at Burkhart. President Lori Burkhart Isbell grants this award every year, named in honor of her father and the company’s immediate past President.
To earn this award, a Burkhart Associate must exemplify distinction in their contributions, commitment, and achievement in the following categories:
- Made a financial impact to the company’s bottom line
- Modeled servant leadership
- Encouraged a supportive and interactive work community
Written by Dawn Kahl
Published in Catalyst – Q3 2026.
Category: Burkhart Culture
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