This week, our CEO, Ryan Johnson received the James O. Cox Award for Outstanding Member Of The Year from the Institute for Supply Management - Houston Chapter.
The Outstanding Member of the Year Award was created in 1953 by the Purchasing Management Association of Houston—now ISM-Houston, Inc.—to recognize long standing members who continue to volunteer to help operate our organization while demonstrating superior leadership and managerial capabilities in achieving their assigned tasks. The winner of the current year's James O. Cox award for Outstanding Member of the Year is announced in June at a special awards ceremony.
In 1973 the award was renamed to honor James O. Cox who was a journalist and member of the Houston Purchasing Agents Association chronicling our growth for over 34 years. The award recognizes members who have performed exceptional service to ISM-Houston, Inc. exemplifying true professionalism both on the job and within the community.
Mr. Johnson released the following statement after being presented with the award:
”I am deeply honored to have received the 2025–2026 James O. Cox Outstanding Member Award from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) Houston Chapter.
While I never seek personal recognition, being acknowledged by the very people I volunteer and serve alongside is incredibly rewarding. This milestone is not a solo achievement. It is a direct reflection of the powerful relationships, mentorship, and community support I have been fortunate to experience over my years with ISM - Houston.
The history of this recognition makes it particularly meaningful. Established back in 1953 by the Purchasing Management Association of Houston, this award was later renamed in 1973 to honor James O. Cox, a dedicated journalist who spent 34 years chronicling our chapter's growth. To join a legacy that has celebrated over 70 years of volunteer leadership, true professionalism, and exceptional service to our purchasing and supply chain community is profoundly humbling.
I am especially grateful for the unwavering support of my business partner, Ronnie Ruzicka, and the entire team at Space City Distribution. Stepping away to fulfill volunteer leadership roles requires a reliable group handling operations back home. Having a team that consistently delivers "Service that is Out of This World" allows me the freedom to give back to our industry. This award belongs to all of us.
Thank you to the board, my fellow committee members, and the entire ISM-Houston community for this prestigious honor. I look forward to continuing our work together, supporting our members, and investing in the next generation of supply chain leaders.”