Phil Kirk, vice president for external relations at Catawba College, public speaker and consultant, was presented with a resolution from the Council of State Chambers at its semi-annual meeting at the Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia.

The resolution commends Kirk for several notable accomplishments, including his career contributions in helping restore respect to public schools, elevating the political process and forming professional stature among business lobbyists. In addition, Kirk was recognized for his strong ethical position, high expectations and his seemingly limitless energy to champion business and education.

"I am tremendously humbled to receive this recognition from the top state chamber executives in the nation," Kirk said. "For the past 16 years, I have learned so much from them and from visiting all parts of the country for our meetings, in addition to forming lasting friendships."

The Council of State Chambers is comprised of chief executive officers of state chambers throughout the country. Hunter Howard, president and chief executive officer of the S.C. Chamber of Commerce and the chairman of the Counsel of State Chambers, presented Kirk with the resolution.

Kirk served for 16 years as the president and chief executive officer of the N.C. Chamber (formerly NCCBI) and publisher of its magazine, North Carolina. For more information on Phil Kirk, visit www.phillipkirk.com.