I know it's been a long time since I've posted, but I felt some of the old schoolers in here may find the following interesting and satisfying to know...
This year's Affiliate Marketing Legend Pinnacle Award at the Affiliate Summit conference went to
Mike Mackin [webmasterworld.com]. Mike is a former WebmasterWorld moderator. Additionally, his "
wanna meet up? [webmasterworld.com]" post spawned the first unofficial PubCon gathering before it became an official WebmasterWorld event a little while later.
Mike gave selflessly to the webmaster and affiliate community during his time on the boards. Well over a decade ago, he picked me off a random message board and mentored me in the SEO and affiliate space. Without him, I have no idea where I would have ended up in this industry.
He never asked for anything in return and actually preferred to keep his name out of the limelight. It was an absolute honor and pleasure to accept the award – along with
RhinoFish [webmasterworld.com], Kellie Stevens and
DrCool [webmasterworld.com] – on Mackin's behalf as we watched him stand up at his table tucked in the back of the room (typical Mike) and receive a standing ovation from the entire room.
Below is the speech Missy Ward gave before announcing he was the recipient:
"This Legend nominee has been an affiliate, an affiliate manager, a moderator, and has also filled many other traditional roles, but his biggest contribution to our industry isn't what he achieved on paper, or in affiliate commission reports.
He was an early leader in our industry, before we had many leaders - but he's done his work so humbly and selflessly, that many of you here today, may not have heard of him.
From the beginning of affiliate history, he's been a shaper and a molder. A teacher and a mentor. An influencer. And most importantly, a relationship starter.
He has had decades of ethical achievements and contributions... and he's never looked for anything in return, especially recognition or awards.
Those you see on stage here, who have come to accept our industry's very highest award on his behalf, are all well-known, well-connected, high-achievers themselves - and each one of them says this Legend played a critical role in helping them get started in affiliate marketing.
Today is the day we'd like to recognize his invaluable contributions to our industry and to all of us personally.
Ladies and gentlemen, the recipient of the 2013 Affiliate Summit Pinnacle Legend award, is Mr. Mike Mackin." Well deserved MF'er, well deserved.
