In memory of industry leader and advocate Lisa Dell’Alba, the NACS Foundation, together with her industry peers, has established the Lisa Dell’Alba Convenience Industry Leadership Scholarship.
Lisa, the president and CEO of Square One Markets Inc., was passionate about developing future leaders in the convenience retail industry, especially emerging leaders from small operators.
“There was no part of Lisa that wasn’t about giving back. She was more than passionate about our industry—she was passionate about the people. She led by example and inspired and motivated so many people,” said NACS President & CEO Henry Armour.
About
Established in 2025, the Lisa Dell’Alba Convenience Industry Leadership Scholarship provides one graduate of the NACS Leadership for Success program the opportunity to participate in the NACS Executive Leadership Program at Cornell University. The scholarship covers the cost of program tuition, which includes instruction, course materials, assessments, lodging, scheduled meals and entertainment. An additional $1,000 stipend will be available to cover transportation and out-of-pocket expenses.
Lisa joined the NACS Board of Directors in 2010. She served as chair of the NACS Convention Committee and the NACS Member Services Committee, and was the 2023-24 NACS Treasurer on the NACS Executive Committee. Lisa volunteered her time and talents to the week-long NACS Leadership for Success program as an instructor and a mentor for participants as they completed their capstone project.
The application deadline is December 15, 2025.
Eligibility
Individuals who have successfully completed the NACS Leadership for Success program are eligible to apply.
- Preference will be given to individuals who are employed by a convenience retail operator with 25 or fewer stores.
- The scholarship will be awarded in February 2026, to enable participation in the 2026-2027 program year.
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Scholarship Applications Available this Fall
Individuals applying for the Lisa Dell’Alba Convenience Industry Leadership Scholarship must submit the following materials:
- Statement of Interest: A short, 1–2-page essay that introduces the applicant, highlights their qualifications for the scholarship, and describes their future career goals.
- Executive Summary: A 1-page pitch of an idea that the applicant would develop further should they receive the scholarship to advance leadership opportunities within their own organization or the overall convenience retail industry.
- Resume/CV: Include professional and personal accomplishments that are relevant to the scholarship application.
- References: Identify two individuals—inside the convenience industry or within the community—who can submit letters of recommendation on the applicant’s behalf.
Application will be made available in October 2025.
The application deadline is December 15, 2025.
The scholarship will be awarded in February 2026, to enable participation in the NACS Executive Leadership Program (endowed by Reynolds) at Cornell University’s campus in summer 2026.
To learn more about the scholarship, or to inquire about contributing to the program or the NACS Foundation, e-mail [email protected].
Selection Criteria
The Lisa Dell’Alba Convenience Industry Leadership Scholarship supports an emerging industry leader who demonstrates leadership potential and a passion for developing others within their organization and/or greater convenience retail industry.
Applications will be reviewed by an expert committee and judged on the following criteria:
- Industry leadership and future potential (50%): As demonstrated by resume, letters of recommendation, and short essay
- Significance, impact, and innovation of proposed project (25%) – As demonstrated by proposal idea, resume and essay
- Service to the convenience retail industry and community (25%) – As demonstrated by resume, letters of recommendation, and short essay
Scholarship recipients will be invited to share their leadership journey and insights at the NACS Executive Leadership Program, ensuring Lisa's legacy continues to inspire future generations.