Chris Nordyke for Linus Pauling Innovator of the Year Award

My nomination for the WIN 09 Linus Pauling Innovator of the Year Award is Chris Nordyke. Chris is not the typical innovator. He doesn't claim any research breakthroughs nor (to my knowledge) does he hold any patents. In fact he is an insurance agent for State Farm, a seemingly plain position. I believe that Chris is an exemplary innovator because of his initiative, leadership, and willingness try things others would considered too big of a risk.

Here are some examples:

School Appreciation Day was a series of coffee events hosted by Chris at a local coffee shop. He invites school staff and provides free coffee.

"I prefer to spend our marketing budget on creating fun experiences for people",Chris explained. "These coffee events allow us to thank our current clients, connect with future clients, and show our appreciation to schools in the Corvallis community."

Through Speaker Lunch Chris books notable entrepreneurs such as Zappos' co-founder Alfred Lin for the benefit of local entrepreneurs and business professionals.

Money Talks for Couples was an educational program hosted by Chris to help couples understand the basics of health insurance. Money Talks attendees received courtesy admission to a film at the Darkside.

My personal favorite are the First Monday BBQs hosted right in front of the his State Farm office where anyone can come and eat, drink and enjoy at Chris' expense. In addition, for every hotdog eaten and insurance quote given at the event he was donating money to the Boys and Girls Club.

Many of us know Chris through social media. Recently he has been producing rather unique videos. Here is one of them:


I don't know what the ROI of these efforts have been for Chris. I believe that Chris is deserving of recognition as an innovator for his willingness to try them.

Oh...and don't forget the car.