The Green Sheet Online Edition
June 22, 2026 • 26:06:02
Trade Association News: A tribute from Dee Karawadra
Celebrating John McCormick's 25 years of service to SEAA
Last night, we had the opportunity to celebrate John McCormick's retirement from the SEAA Board after an incredible 25 years of service. As everyone was sharing their favorite "Johnny stories," the famous nap-under-the-table story came up again. More than 20 years later, it still gets a laugh.
But as I thought about it, it seemed more symbolic than funny. The countless hours, late nights and tireless effort required to help lead an organization like SEAA for a quarter century would wear anyone out. (Although, to be fair, some of those late nights may have been self-inflicted.)
What I've always appreciated most about John is his ability to find a way to get things done.
From climbing Kilimanjaro together to helping me navigate my early years as a new SEAA Board member, John was always the guy who could figure things out when others couldn't.
One memory that perfectly captures who he is happened on Kilimanjaro. John realized he had forgotten to pack his rain gear. While most people would have panicked, he went full MacGyver and built his own rain suit out of plastic bags.
As he stood there proudly wearing his creation, he smiled and said, "Necessity is the mother of all inventions." That was John. Practical. Resourceful. Unflappable. Always finding a solution.
Most people attending SEAA this year will see a world-class conference. They will see the education sessions, networking events, exhibitors and celebrations.
What they won't see was the thousands of volunteer hours invested by leaders like John to help build SEAA into one of the most respected organizations in our industry.
Twenty-five years on the Board isn't just a milestone. It's a testament to commitment, conviction and a genuine desire to serve others.
John, thank you for your leadership, friendship, guidance, dedication and service to our industry. SEAA is stronger because of your contributions, and many of us have benefited from your wisdom over the years. Congratulations on your retirement from the Board. It is incredibly well deserved.
And (for those who remember the famous nap-under-the-table story) after 25 years of service, I'd say you've more than earned the right to take one. Thank you, my friend. 
Editorial Note: Few industry organizations inspire the kind of loyalty and friendship found within the Southeast Acquirers Association, which celebrated its 25th anniversary this month during its annual conference in Miami. One person who has been part of that journey from the very beginning is John McCormick, director/vice president at General Credit Forms, who recently retired from the SEAA board after 25 years of service. Over the years, McCormick earned a reputation not only as a dedicated industry leader, but also as a trusted mentor, problem solver and friend to many in the payments community. In the following note, Dee Karawadra, CEO of ImpactPays and a longtime friend and fellow SEAA board member, reflects warmly on McCormick's contributions, character and enduring impact on the organization and the people around him. Dee's tribute, given during the conference and later shared on social media, is published here with permission.
Dee Karawadra is president and CEO of Impact PaySystem. Since 2001, Impact PaySystem has been a leading provider of payment processing technologies and services to merchants throughout the United States. Through alliances with payments industry leaders such as Chase Paymentech, First Data, Buypass, Sage and more, Impact PaySystem offers tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each merchant. Dee will welcome your questions and comments at dee@impactpays.com.
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