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Brewers Association Celebrates Craft Beer Innovators at 2025 Awards

On April 9, 2025, the Brewers Association (BA) proudly announced the winners of the 2025 Industry Awards, spotlighting remarkable individuals and groups that have significantly influenced the craft brewing sector. The BA, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting small and independent American brewers, has been presenting these prestigious awards since 1987. The recipients will be honored at a special ceremony on April 30, 2025, during the Craft Brewers Conference® (CBC) in Indianapolis.

Award Winners and Their Contributions

Bart Watson, the president and CEO of the Brewers Association, expressed his gratitude to this year's award winners, emphasizing their vital role in nurturing the craft brewing community and contributing to its progress.

Russell Schehrer Award for Innovation in Craft Brewing

Winner: Ron Jeffries (posthumously), Founder of Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales
This award honors those whose innovative ideas propel the brewing industry forward. Ron Jeffries, who sadly passed away in 2024, was an icon of the craft beer movement. He founded Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales, known for its unique sour beers and inventive brewing techniques. Jeffries’ early support for the Michigan Brewers Guild and his mentorship inspired countless brewers. His legacy continues through the vibrancy of craft brewing he helped foster.

Brewers Association Recognition Award

Winner: The NC Beer Community
This award acknowledges individuals or groups whose passion and encouragement have propelled the craft brewing movement. The NC Beer Community showcased extraordinary resilience and collaboration in response to the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Helene in 2024. During this crisis, breweries became crucial support hubs, providing emergency relief and raising substantial funds. Their humanitarian efforts demonstrated how the beer community can unite during adversity.

F.X. Matt Defense of the Industry Award

Winner: Ted Zeller, Norris McLaughlin, and the Brewers of Pennsylvania
This award is presented to an individual or entity for championing the craft brewing industry. Ted Zeller’s legal work since 2006 has made a significant impact on the craft beer sector. His advocacy in Pennsylvania has led to landmark legislative changes that benefit breweries. His leadership and collaborative spirit have strengthened the brewing community across the state.

Brewers Association Mentor of the Year Award

Winner: Shawn Mullen, Stone Brewing Company
Shawn Mullen's dedication to fostering new talent within the industry earned him this accolade. Since joining the BA’s mentorship program, he has helped numerous individuals develop their careers in brewing. His journey from a liquor store beer buyer to a key player at Stone Brewing exemplifies the potential for growth within the craft beer world.

Nomination and Selection Process

All award recipients were nominated by their peers, and winners were determined through votes from the BA board members and past awardees, ensuring a fair and representative selection process. The Brewers Association also hosts two significant competitions—the Great American Beer Festival Competition and the World Beer Cup®—to highlight the best brewing talent.

About the Brewers Association

The Brewers Association represents over 5,600 U.S. breweries and advocates for the interests of small and independent craft brewers through education, events, and industry resources. With their seal identifying independent craft brewers, the BA continues to champion the diversity and spirit of the craft beer culture.

For more insights into the craft beer scene and the impact of these awards, visit CraftBeer.com. Follow them on social media for updates about upcoming events and announcements regarding the craft beer industry. Let's raise a glass to the innovations and community spirit that continue to drive the craft brewing movement forward!