Speech written and presented by VP, Jessica Vallia:
"This year’s recipient of the prestigious Colorado Award is a true giver by nature. He is one to always thank everyone around him while being humble and kind in his approach. He is not only a very active member of PPC but he is extremely active in several other organizations both photography related and volunteer organizations in his local community. He truly wants the world around him to be a better place for others and does not mind giving his own time to make that dream a reality.Â
After joining PPC in just 2020 he’s served on just about every committee we have, if not every committee. He has held several positions of both Chair as well as more than one position on the Executive Board. He has probably put in just as many hours volunteering in his short time with PPC as he did in his day job prior to his recent retirement from corporate banking (if not more). It is a great honor to present this award to our President, Michael Ryno.Â
Michael has dedicated his time in retirement to not only learning the skills to master his photography (he’s quite the budding portrait photographer these days) and volunteering in our community but he also volunteers his time with The Lone Photo Tree Club (he’s served not only in their committees but as their president as well), he regularly writes articles for Photo Focus, he volunteers at Wellspring Community in Castle Rock working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, volunteers at Douglas County Conservancy an organization dedicated to protecting Colorado ecosystems and land, he has a media pass and provides imagery for the Elizabeth Stampede Rodeo, works with Wild Hearts Haven Horse Rescue, and volunteers his photography skills annually for the City of Lone Tree. And these are just the current places he’s volunteering his time and energy. Don’t worry, I have been assured by his beautiful wife Lori, he does in fact have time to sleep.Â
I think I can speak for everyone who knows Michael’s spirit for giving in saying, no one is more deserving of this award than he is and we are proud to add him to the list of Colorado Award recipients. Thank you Michael for always thinking about the future & well being of PPC as well as all professional & aspiring photographers in Colorado."
