Editor’s Note: This article is part of our series of highlighted exemplar recognitions. See our introduction post for all the details, or view all the posts in this series.

David Elden is a Level 2 Judge from Fort Wayne, Indiana. His recognitions this wave focus primarily on his efforts to help develop other judges. Here is what Judges had to say about David’s efforts:

“Dave, you continue to produce great learning tools for the Judge community. Your recent blog post on OGW Update was extremely helpful and gave a quick synopsis of the changes that affect us with the new set. For that alone, you deserve this. There are numerous other reasons that will go unsaid, though.”

“David your work to continually help educate judges deserves recognition. Both your Blog and your continued work at events, asking questions to judges to help educate them on both policy and rules is a prime example of what judges should strive for. Keep up the good work!”

“David, your orchestration and maintenance of monthly judge meetings creates a sense of community and belonging for our state. What started as a local project has really grown this season, and your regular supporting articles and presentations are exemplary to the program. We are better with you than without you!”

Here’s what Bernd Buldt, his Area Captain, had to say:

I’ve known Dave for almost ten years now, first a a player, then as a judge. During this time I’ve observed how he “transformed” — from a somewhat shy and nerdy player into a mature judge who cares more about his fellow-judges every year. Having chosen rules and policy knowledge as his area of excellence, he helps us all — both in our monthly meetings and online through articles and posts — not only to stay sharp but, in the end, to become stronger judges. Way to go, Dave!