Arrow Exterminators celebrates retirements of two team members
Atlanta-based Arrow Exterminators recently celebrated the retirement of two leaders, Rick Bell and Ken Stieren. Their official retirement date was May 31.
Rick Bell, vice president of government affairs and industry stewardship, retired after a 48-year career in the pest control industry. Bell has been a member of the Arrow family for 36 years, where he led the development of the company’s technical services department and made lasting contributions to its termite business.
To honor Bell’s legacy, Arrow will establish a scholarship through the Pest Management Foundation. The scholarship will support future pest management professionals and carry forward Bell’s commitment to education, leadership and excellence.
Ken Stieren, whose 40-year journey in the pest control industry began in 1984, also retired.
In 2012, Ken joined Arrow’s executive team as senior vice president of sales. At that time, new sales totaled $30 million. Today, that number has grown to over $130 million, thanks in large part to his leadership and collaborative approach across departments.
“Rick and Ken have each left an indelible mark on Arrow Exterminators and the pest control industry at large,” said Emily Thomas Kendrick, CEO of Arrow Exterminators. “Their leadership, wisdom and dedication have helped shape who we are today. While their presence will be deeply missed, their legacies will continue to guide and inspire us for generations. We are forever grateful for their service, and we wish them both a joyful and well-deserved retirement.”
NPMA honors Envu biologist
Envu research biologist Debbie Koufas was one of 88 recipients of this year’s National Pest Management Association’s (NPMA) Impact Award. Koufas was recognized alongside the 88 other recipients during the 2025 NPMA’s Women’s Forum in Austin, Texas.
“Debbie’s decades of knowledge and expertise are directly responsible for shaping forward-looking innovations that help our customers solve their daily challenges,” said Tiffany Fremder, chief marketing officer at Envu. “Her work, alongside many others at Envu, gives us the ability to help protect the spaces people live in for a healthier environment.”
When developing Envu’s new Barricor Essential Mosquito Control, for example, Koufas helped to screen and refine essential oil- and botanical-based formulations to find a balance of efficacy and environmental responsibility. Her work has directly addressed the growing challenge in the industry of how to provide reliable, professional-grade mosquito control, while satisfying the preferences of environmentally conscious consumers.
“Beyond her technical contributions, Koufas is a mentor, leader and advocate for scientific excellence. Her work bridges the gap between scientific discovery and practical, business-ready solutions for pest management professionals. Debbie’s legacy is a source of immense pride for our team and a testament to the vital role women play in advancing our industry,” added Fremder.
Visit here for more information about Envu’s role in the Women’s Conference.
NPMA honors 3 with lifetime membership
The National Pest Management Association (NPMA) recently revealed that lifetime membership in the organization has been bestowed upon Pest Management Professional (PMP) Hall of Famers Bob and Judy Dold (Class of 2002) and Bernie Holst Jr.
“Bob, Judy and Bernie aren’t just leaders — they’re visionaries who have transformed our industry through their passion and commitment,” said Faye Golden, president of NPMA. “Their countless hours of service to NPMA have not only advanced our profession but have inspired generations of pest management professionals who continue to benefit from their wisdom and guidance.”
The Dolds have run the Northfield, Ill.-based Rose Pest Solutions for decades, while Holst is the founder of Horizon Pest Control, Midland Park, N.J.
As NPMA Lifetime Members, the three individuals will receive the benefits of membership and complimentary registration to PestWorld.
“It brings me immense joy to see Bob, Judy and Bernie receive this well-deserved recognition. Their tireless advocacy, innovative thinking and genuine love for our industry have created a lasting legacy,” said Dominique Stumpf, CAE, NPMA CEO. “Through their exceptional contributions to NPMA, the Professional Pest Management Alliance, QualityPro and the Pest Management Foundation, they’ve helped build the strong, dynamic organization we are today.“
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