The Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry (INDA), is remembering K. Wayne Hays, a veteran of the nonwovens industry for more than five decades and one of the founders of INDA, who passed away on 21 August.
Hays became involved in the fledgling nonwovens business in the early 1950s and was the first Chairman of the International Nonwovens and Disposables Association, which later became INDA.
He served on numerous INDA boards, committees, and task forces, served as INDA’s interim president in 1996 and led the search that brought Ted Wirtz on board as INDA’s president from 1996 to 2004.
Hays was recognised with the IDEA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001 for his exceptional contributions to the association, including being a founding member, serving as interim president, and advancing the overall success of the association.
INDA president Dave Rousse, said: “INDA is saddened by the loss of an industry leader who was an integral part of INDA’s heritage. Wayne will be remembered for his many visionary contributions to our association and the industry.”