The National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) Executive Director Marilyn Bentz was presented with ATA's Industry Impact Award at the Industry Celebration at the 2026 ATA Trade Show in Indianapolis.
This award is designed to honor leaders in the archery industry who inspire others and grow participation in archery and bowhunting. A group of archery industry peers nominated Bentz to receive the award which celebrates contributions made through creativity, service, technology, philanthropy, engagement, longevity, sustainability, overcoming adversity or raising awareness.
"I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to contribute to the archery and bowhunting industry for many years. I'll continue my efforts to increase participation and promote safety," said Marilyn Bentz, Executive Director of the National Bowhunter Education Foundation. "Thank you to ATA and my friends in the industry for this honor. I work with a wonderful network of people who share my dedication to our industries' success."
"ATA is pleased to recognize industry leaders like Marilyn Bentz for their ongoing efforts to grow and support the industry," said ATA President & CEO Jeff Poole. "Marilyn represents the industry well while engaging new audiences as the NBEF Executive Director."
Bentz has led the National Bowhunter Education Foundation as Executive Director since 2003. This global nonprofit is dedicated to bowhunter safety and education through standardized curriculum. Previously, she served on the NBEF Board of Directors from 1996 - 2003. Bentz also served on the Archery Hall of Fame Board of Directors and as two-term board member of the Archery Trade Association. Continuing to serve the bowhunting industry, Bentz was elected to the Tree Stand Safety Awareness Foundation in 2025.
In recognition of her contributions to the archery and hunting community, Bentz has received the prestigious Fred Bear Achievement Award. She received IHEA's coveted Gladney Davidson award in 2016 for making significant contributions to hunter education. Bentz was inducted into the 2005 Legends of the Outdoors Hall of Fame in 2005.
Marilyn Bentz began her career in the outdoor industry through a professional connection with renowned entrepreneur Chuck Saunders. She advanced through key leadership roles in top archery and hunting companies, including National Sales Manager and Director of Marketing at Saunders Archery, followed by senior positions such as Director of Sales and Marketing and Vice President of National Sales at McKenzie Targets, Knight & Hale/Code Blue–PRADCO, and Golden Eagle/Satellite Archery/Bear Archery/North American Archery.
NBEF helps bowhunters learn to be safe, successful and stewards of the sport. NBEF offers bowhunting instructional items, books, videos, 3-D models, apparel and more at nbef.org.