News

The 2025 MRN/SWANA Mid-Atlantic Conference: Resilience is officially in the books! The packed program featured three thought-provoking general sessions and four rounds of engaging concurrent sessions, giving attendees the chance to dive into some of the most pressing topics in solid waste and recycling. From cutting-edge innovations to real-world solutions, there was something for everyone. Add in plenty of opportunities to connect with peers and explore our vendor showcase and the conference delivered both insight and inspiration. Read a recap of the day.

During the lunch session, Maryland Recycling Network (MRN) held elections for the 2025-26 Board of Directors. Members in attendance voted to re-elect Kitty McIlroy as president, Michele Blair as vice president, and Anthony Drury as secretary/treasurer, along with the full slate of Directors. We thank the BOD for their contributions and look forward to continuing to build upon the positive momentum we have been experiencing. See the full list here.

MRN also honored two of its own at the conference: long-time members and dedicated volunteers Dave Mrgich and Bob Stumpff.

MRN Chairman Bob Stumpff presented Dave Mrgich (pictured left) with the 2025 Extraordinary Achievement Award, honoring his decades of dedicated service to recycling in Maryland. As Chief of the Maryland Department of the Environment's Waste Diversion Division, Dave has been a tireless advocate for waste reduction and a pillar of the MRN community. With his retirement set for June 30, 2025, we thank him deeply for his service—he will be missed!

MRN BOD Member Chaz Miller then presented Bob Stumpff (pictured right) with the Dwight Copenhaver Lifetime Achievement Award for his commitment and leadership in promoting recycling in Maryland. Bob’s remarkable career spans roles at the University of Maryland College Park and the City of College Park, where he led innovative improvements in recycling and solid waste operations. Though retired since 2018, Bob continues to lead as MRN’s Chairman, keeping the Board focused and moving forward.

Bob was also recently featured on MRN blog for his years of service to the industry and to our organization. MRN member Charlie Reighart says it best: "Bob Stumpff is just the kind of guy you want if you're looking to make progress on anything, because he's the steady, unsung hero who gets things done without fuss or fanfare." Read more about Bob's incredible career.

Congratulations to Dave and Bob for these well-deserved honors!