APTA to Honor Top Leaders at TRANSform

APTA will celebrate the ‘Best of the Best’ at the APTA Honors Luncheon Sept. 16 during the TRANSform conference in Boston, MA, Sept. 14-17.

Thirteen organizations and leaders will be recognized for their vision, leadership, and commitment to public transportation. The association will also induct six new members into the prestigious APTA Hall of Fame.

The 2025 APTA Awards recognize organizations and leaders in the public transportation industry in North America who have demonstrated significant leadership, are outstanding role models of excellence, and whose accomplishments and innovations have greatly advanced public transportation.

Following are the winners of the Outstanding Public Transportation Board Member Award, Outstanding Public Transportation Chief Executive Officer Award, and Outstanding Public Transportation Business Member Award.

Outstanding Public Transportation Board Member

David M. Stackrow

For nearly three decades, David Stackrow has been a steadfast force in public transportation governance, embodying the highest ideals of leadership, service, and innovation. Appointed to the Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA, Albany, NY) Board of Directors in 1995, his tenure is a testament to enduring commitment and visionary thinking.

Serving as board chair for three terms and in every officer role, Stackrow has guided CDTA’s evolution from a conventional bus operator to a mobility leader and community cornerstone. His influence reshaped policy, deepened community trust, and fostered transformative growth.

Outstanding Public Transportation Chief Executive Officer

Kenneth A. McDonald

Kenneth A. McDonald’s 28-year career in public transportation exemplifies strategic leadership, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to operational excellence. As president and CEO of Long Beach Transit, CA, and through a legacy of service across major agencies, McDonald has proven himself as one of the most accomplished and forward-thinking leaders in the industry.

His journey began at Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, where his work in operations and maintenance led to a 10 percent reduction in service interruptions and a boost in rail on-time performance from 85 to 92 percent.

Outstanding Public Transportation Business Member

Buddy Coleman

Buddy Coleman exemplifies what it means to be a business leader in service of the public good. As chief customer officer and principal owner of Clever Devices, Coleman has driven exceptional innovation in transit technology while elevating industry standards through integrity, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the community.

Since joining Clever Devices in 2009, Coleman has helped shape the company into a highly regarded provider of intelligent transportation systems. Under his leadership, Clever Devices has achieved consistent double-digit growth, executed three successful acquisitions, and expanded its global footprint.