[National Episcopal Historians and Archivists press release] Mark J. Duffy, the canonical archivist and director of the archives of the Episcopal Church, is the 2013 recipient of the Canon John W. Davis Award given by the National Episcopal Historians and Archivists (NEHA).

The Rt. Rev. Russell E. Jacobus, seventh bishop of Fond du Lac, is the recipient of the Bishop’s Award 2013 given by NEHA.

The awards were presented during NEHA’s Annual Meeting at the Tri-History Conference in San Antonio, Texas, June 11-14.

Named for its first recipient, longtime NEHA President Canon John W. Davis, the award pays tribute to outstanding contributions a NEHA member has made to the organization and/or the fields of Episcopal Church history and archives. Duffy is a longtime NEHA member and previously served on its board of trustees.

Over the past three decades, Duffy has made innumerable contributions to the field of religious archives through publications, professional service, and institutional dedication. He has served as director of the Episcopal Church Archives since 1992, having previously worked at the Harvard University Archives and as chief archivist for the City of Boston.

Wishing to honor bishops who have actively championed the work of historiographers and archivists, in 2000 NEHA instituted the Bishop’s Award. Made occasionally, the award is presented for exemplary support of historical research and archival preservation. In presenting the award, the Rev. Bindy Snyder, NEHA president, noted Jacobus’ support and commitment for the work necessary to restore the diocesan archives following a devastating flood in 2008. Jacobus also joined the annual NEHA Conference at DeKoven Center in 2009.

Founded in 1961, NEHA has focused on practical matters of archivists and historians in the Episcopal Church since it held its first meeting and continues to provide a forum for exchanging ideas, giving mutual support, and defining its role as an archival and historical network for those who participate in preserving, exploring and sharing the historical dimensions of the Episcopal Church. NEHA encourages every congregation, diocese, and organization in the Episcopal Church to collect, preserve and organize its records and share its history.