AMITYVILLE, N.Y. — We continue our weeklong rollout of the five 2025 SSI Industry Hall of Fame inductees with Donna Soloway, board of directors member for NAPCO Security Technologies.
Soloway joins Christine Lanning, Tracy Larson and Pierre Racz as this year’s honorees, with one more inductee to be unveiled tomorrow. The five inductees will be celebrated at ISC West in Las Vegas next week.
The Donna Soloway Hall of Fame File
- Loving wife and partner of Dick Soloway, chairman and CEO of Napco (and 2004 SSI Industry Hall of Fame inductee), making for the SSI Industry Hall of Fame’s first “power couple,” along with Andrew and Christine Lanning
- Grew up on Long Island, N.Y.; lives in Manhattan
- Educated in Europe; fluent in numerous languages
- Enthusiast and collector of modern art
- Active in numerous charities
- Board of directors, NAPCO Security Technologies, Inc., since 2001
- Past president of the board of directors of the Auxiliary of NYU Medical Center
- Former member of the board of trustees of NYU Medical Center
Why Donna Soloway is in the Hall of Fame
- Longtime active member of the alarm industry
- Columnist, including “On the Security Scene,” for security trade publications, with contributions to Security Sales & Integration and SDM
- Member of NAPCO Security Technologies board of directors
- Started the Youth Scholarship program at the MBFAA for college-bound children of active police persons and firefighters, later adopted by the NBFAA (now ESA); currently, is a very worthwhile program, with many state associations having adopted it
- Instrumental in relocating ISC West from Anaheim, Calif. (Disneyland), to Las Vegas, where it has been the premier industry event for the past 30 years
- Organized special events, including those for charities, for industry associations such as the Security Industry Association (SIA), Electronic Security Association (ESA) and The Monitoring Association (TMA)
Keys to Success
“Success in the security industry — and in life — is built on dedication, resilience and a commitment to lifting others along the way. Over four decades, I’ve seen how integrity and passion create lasting impact not just in business but also in the people we mentor and the communities we serve.”
“Collaboration is key. Listening with an open mind and leading with empathy fosters real progress.”
“Most importantly, always give back. Whether it’s through mentorship, advocacy or charitable work, true success is measured not just by what we achieve but also by how we help others rise.”
Enduring Memories
“Being part of the security industry for decades — as a columnist, industry advocate and board member of NAPCO Security Technologies — has given me a unique perspective. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the dedication and innovation that drive our field forward, including the security industry’s March on Washington and numerous charitable marathon walks, etc. But one of my most rewarding contributions has been launching the Youth Scholarship Program at MBFAA.”
“What started as a local initiative to support the children of police officers and firefighters has grown into a national program embraced by industry associations across the country. Seeing these students succeed and knowing that our industry’s generosity played a role in their future has reinforced what I’ve always believed: true success is not just about professional achievements but also about the lasting impact we leave on others.”
Donna Soloway and Her Hall of Fame Words of Wisdom
“Our industry’s success has always been fueled by innovation, creativity and perseverance. With the security industry and its technologies evolving faster than ever before, and with a world in dire need of better security for all, it is crucial that we remain responsive and resilient. Working alongside my husband, Dick, the founder of NAPCO Security Technologies, has deepened my commitment to contributing meaningfully to our ever-changing field, ensuring that it stays robust and forward-thinking for generations to come.”
Making Our Industry Better
“Our industry has always thrived on innovation, resilience and strong relationships. Yet, to secure its future, we must continue to share our passion and cultivate new talent, while valuing the experience of those already with us. Over the years, I have witnessed the profound benefits that structured mentorship and associations can bring. I encourage seasoned professionals to share their insights and support the growth of emerging talent.”
“Recruitment efforts are important, but equally critical is fostering an environment where individuals feel supported and encouraged to grow. Mentorship plays a key role, and I hope to see more experienced professionals actively guiding the next generation.”
“I also hope to see more women enter this field. With workforce shortages across the industry, we need to tap into a broader talent pool and create opportunities for those who may not have traditionally considered a career in security. By combining mentorship, retention and outreach, we can build a stronger industry for the future.”
Donna Soloway and Her Hall of Fame Legacy
“I hope to be remembered as someone who made meaningful contributions to our industry, while having the honor of working alongside some of its best and brightest, to create a safer world. Throughout my journey, I have fostered growth through collaboration, education and a wide range of industry initiatives — from pivotal moments that have shaped our field to events that capture the fun and glamor of our community. If a few of my true stories continue to inspire or bring a smile, that will be a fitting tribute to all we have achieved together.”