Applications are now open for the Lisa Dell’Alba Convenience Industry Leadership Scholarship, a first-of-its-kind award established by the NACS Foundation in memory of longtime industry leader and mentor Lisa Dell’Alba.
Each year, two deserving recipients will receive full tuition to attend the NACS Executive Leadership Program at Cornell University, a weeklong immersive leadership development experience designed to accelerate professional growth and expand leadership capacity. The inaugural scholarship will be awarded in 2026—and thanks to Cornell’s generous support, a second scholarship will also be awarded annually, doubling the program’s impact.
The scholarship honors Lisa’s deep commitment to developing the next generation of convenience leaders—particularly those from small, independent and family-owned businesses—by investing in rising professionals who demonstrate leadership potential, integrity and a passion for making a difference in their companies and communities.
Eligible candidates must be employed in the convenience retail industry and demonstrate leadership promise, a commitment to professional development and a desire to positively impact the industry. Applications are open now through February 16, 2026.
“Lisa believed in lifting others up and making people feel seen. This scholarship is a meaningful way to carry her legacy forward and invest in the kind of leadership our industry needs most—humble, authentic and people-first,” said Kevin O’Connell, executive director of the NACS Foundation.
The scholarship was shaped by an informal steering committee of Lisa’s industry friends and peers, including Lonnie McQuirter, Don and Jennifer Rhoads, Jared Scheeler, Annie Gauthier, Chris Bambury, Jigar Patel, Dee Dhaliwal, Kevin Martello, Julie and Tom Jackowski, Kevin Farley, Larry Jackson, Michael and Bianca Davis, and Allison Dean—whose care and contributions ensured the values behind the program reflect Lisa’s spirit of mentorship, excellence and service.
For questions about the scholarship or application process, please contact scholarship@conveniencecares.org.