A Legacy of Leadership: The Eric Stoll Shepherd Award

What does real leadership actually look like?

Is it measured by success or by the people you impact along the way?

On April 14, 2026, Chris LoCurto and Joel Fortner joined us for an incredibly meaningful award ceremony to honor Eric’s legacy.

The Backstory

Eric began working with Chris and Joel years before the development of Old South Wood Preserving, LLC. What started as a professional relationship quickly grew into a deep and lasting friendship.

While Chris and Joel are widely known for their work in small business leadership and coaching, their impact on Eric went far beyond business. At Eric’s own request, they challenged him in more personal areas of life. His walk with God, his relationship with his wife and children, and the way he showed up as a leader for his team.

Eric didn’t just want to build a successful business. He wanted to become a better man, husband, father, and leader. And Chris and Joel walked alongside him in that journey.

Each year, Chris LoCurto hosts an event for his clients where a select number of awards are given. The highest honor is the Shepherd Award.

This award is not simply about business success. It recognizes a leader who truly cares for their people. Someone who invests their time, faith, energy, and heart into those they lead. A shepherd in every sense of the word.

An Impact Left for Generations

During their visit with us, Chris and Joel shared something none of us will ever forget. They announced that Eric was this year’s recipient of the Shepherd Award.

And then, in an even more powerful tribute, they shared that the award would be renamed in his honor—now known as The Eric Stoll Shepherd Award.

Moments like this remind us that true leadership goes far beyond titles or achievements.

It’s about faith, character, and the lasting impact we leave on others.

Eric embodied that kind of leadership and now his legacy will continue to challenge and inspire others for years to come.

We invite you to watch the video below and see this powerful tribute for yourself.