[Society of American Archivists] Mark J. Duffy, the canonical archivist and director of the archives of the Episcopal Church, is the 2012 recipient of the Sister M. Claude Lane, O.P., Memorial Award given by the Society of American Archivists (SAA). The award will be presented at a ceremony during SAA’s Annual Meeting in San Diego, California, August 6‒11.

The award honors an individual archivist who has made a significant contribution to the field of religious archives. Over the past three decades, Duffy has made innumerable contributions to the field of religious archives through his publications, professional service, and institutional dedication. He has demonstrated continued commitment to SAA’s Archivists of Religious Collections Section through his service as chair and web coordinator.

As one nominator noted, “Mark has elevated the archives from a traditional, historical manuscript collection to a thriving and visible archives, records, and research program. He has ushered the archives into the 21st century, emphasizing and representing to Episcopal Church governing bodies the importance of electronic records document management, an enterprise-wide retention schedule, open-source solutions to long-term digital preservation, and a case for a modern, expanded archives and research center.”

In addition to working with the Episcopal Church Archives, Duffy also has consulted with about a dozen other religious bodies in establishing archives.

Created in 1974, the award is funded by the Society of Southwest Archivists and honors Sister M. Claude Lane, O.P., a Dominican nun who was the first professionally trained archivist at the Catholic Archives of Texas in Austin. Malachy R. McCarthy of the Claretian Missionaries Archives was the 2011 recipient.

Founded in 1936, the Society of American Archivists is North America’s oldest and largest national archival professional association. SAA’s mission is to serve the educational and informational needs of more than 6,000 individual and institutional members and to provide leadership to ensure the identification, preservation, and use of records of historical value. For more information.