– Industry leader honored for significant contributions to the carpet industry –
Dalton, GA. – Nov 12, 2025 – Today, The Carpet and Rug Institute (The CRI) awarded industry leader Becky Boley of Shaw Industries with the 2025 Joseph J. Smrekar Memorial Award in recognition of her contributions to the carpet industry. The award was presented by Russ DeLozier, president of The CRI, during the organization’s annual meeting.
“Becky Boley’s tireless dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact on our industry,” said Russ DeLozier, president of The CRI. “As The CRI’s board treasurer for the past four years, Ms. Boley’s expertise has carefully guided The CRI, and this award reflects her outstanding service to our organization and its members.”
Marking its 27th year, the Joseph J. Smrekar Memorial Award was established in 1998 by Milliken and Company to honor the late Dr. Joseph Smrekar, a longtime industry professional who set the standard for service to The CRI and the carpet industry.
The award is a commissioned piece handcrafted by Dalton artist Chris Beck.
About The Carpet and Rug Institute
The mission of The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) is to educate consumers, help advance technical initiatives, and advocate on behalf of the carpet manufacturing industry. This work is informed by science and guided by our commitment to integrity and transparency in everything we do. To learn more about CRI, visit www.carpet-rug.org
