The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) has announced the passing of Dirk Van Dongen, NAW’s former CEO.
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Van Dongen served four decades at the helm of NAW.
“I often told Dirk Van Dongen that he was a living legend. Throughout his four-decade tenure, he transformed NAW into a powerhouse in Washington. Dirk mentored generations of trade association leaders, including myself,” said Eric Hoplin, CEO of NAW.
“He played a pivotal role in electing hundreds of members of Congress, all while advising them on the importance of free enterprise. His office walls told the story of his influence, adorned with photos of presidents, prime ministers, and countless leaders of the House and Senate. When he passed the baton of NAW leadership to me, his graciousness and generosity were unparalleled. Dirk was not just a mentor but a friend to me and many others. While he will be deeply missed, the impact he made will resonate for generations.”
Dirk’s journey with NAW began in 1968 when he transitioned from AT&T’s marketing department to direct the association’s membership drive through phone solicitations. This boosted NAW’s membership and set the stage for his career.
NAW listed his accomplishments in a tribute to Van Dongen on their website:
- An unparalleled understanding of the impact of regulation and taxation on businesses and masterful in advocating for government policies that fostered economic growth
- A formidable presence in American politics, starting from the Reagan administration
- Served as co-chairman of several finance committees for the election of GOP presidential candidates
- Instrumental in assembling coalitions of business interests that were pivotal in passing landmark legislation, including the 1986 tax reform bill and the 2001 tax cuts under President George W. Bush
NAW represents the $8 trillion wholesale distribution industry, which employs 6 million workers in the U.S.
Van Dongen leaves behind his wife, Maryann, and his daughters Rachel and Marisa.
