Darling's

What is the Owen Darling Award?

The Owen Darling Award, named after the founder of Darling's in 1937, is a highly esteemed accolade. Its creation in 2014 was inspired by Owen's grandchildren, Jay, Carrie, and Lynne Darling. While working in the dealership and interacting with the public, they frequently heard about their grandfather's admirable deeds, which had gone unrecognized. They recognized that many of their colleagues in the company shared similar qualities and wanted to pay tribute to both their grandfather and their fellow team members.

The award winner is presented at our annual all-employee meeting held in January, and the prize includes a paid vacation to a destination of their choice.

2026 Owen Darling Award Winner: Eric Seekins

Eric Seekins is the kind of person people naturally gravitate toward. When he walks into a room, others follow not because he asks them to but because of who he is. He is open welcoming and genuinely willing to help and people feel that right away.

Eric embodies everything the Owen Darling Award stands for. He lives our core values every single day through empathy humility and an unwavering commitment to both our customers and our communities. Whether he is keeping operations running smoothly behind the scenes or making sure a customer feels taken care of Eric approaches every situation with care and intention.

One moment says it all. While driving the courtesy van Eric noticed a woman caring for three children in a situation that did not feel stable or safe. Later realizing there were unclaimed turkeys from a company initiative Eric did not hesitate. He asked if he could deliver those turkeys to her family before Christmas so they could have a meal together. That instinct to notice to care and to act is who Eric is.

Throughout his time with Darlings including his role at Greenpoint Eric has handled one of the most critical responsibilities in our operations. Managing thousands of parts moving in and out of a facility is no small task yet he never lost sight of what mattered most taking care of people. Customers coworkers and team members alike know they can rely on Eric not just for his knowledge but for his kindness and leadership.

Eric impact reaches far beyond his job description. He is a mentor a steady presence a friend and someone who quietly lifts everyone around him. When he received recognition in the past he used it to buy pizza for his entire team because that is Eric. He shares success celebrates others and leads by example.

When we think about the legacy of Owen Darling the empathy humility and dedication to company and community it is clear why Eric Seekins is this year recipient. He does not seek recognition. He simply does the right thing every day.

Congratulations Eric. Your impact is felt across Darlings and we are incredibly proud to recognize you as our 2026 Owen Darling Award winner. You truly deserve it.