CHICAGO — Fred Springer, president and chief executive officer of Burford Corp., Maysville, Okla., has been named recipient of the Robert A. Fischer Distinguished Service Award by the American Society of Baking.

The award was presented March 4 during the A.S.B. opening session of BakingTech 2013, held at the Marriott Downtown Chicago Magnificent Mile hotel. BakingTech 2013 is being conducted March 3-5.

Established in 1999, the Robert A. Fischer Distinguished Service Award “recognizes outstanding service and leadership by an individual to the society,” according to the A.S.B. Awarded annually, the recognition is kept secret until announced.

Mr. Springer has been with Burford for about 40 years and was named president of the company in 2002. In addition to his involvement in the A.S.B., he has been active with other industry groups including AIB International, where he is a past chairman. He is a past president of the Allied Trades of the Baking Industry, a past president of BEMA and was co-chairman of BEMA Tech 99. He also has served on the board of directors of the American Bakers Association.

In accepting the award, a surprised Mr. Springer expressed appreciation to the A.S.B. and acknowledged family members (many of whom were present) and his employees.