CEDIA has named Anthony Grimani as the recipient of its 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award, while Patrick Hartman and Joe Wallace have been inducted as CEDIA Fellows.
The honours recognise individuals whose work has had a lasting impact on the smart home industry through innovation, leadership, and long-term commitment to the association.
Lifetime Achievement Award: Anthony Grimani
Anthony Grimani, co-founder of Grimani Systems and president of MSR Acoustics [pictured above], has been recognised for more than 25 years of contributions to audio and acoustics. A founding member of CEDIA, Grimani holds seven patents and has played leading roles in industry standards, education, and product development.
His career includes senior positions at Dolby and Lucasfilm THX, where he co-invented 5.1 surround sound, created the Home THX and THX PM3 programmes, and developed the Surround EX 6.1 channel audio format, first deployed in Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace.
Grimani continues to support CEDIA initiatives, currently serving on the RP32 Measurement & Validation of Audio Performance Task Force and as chair of the RP1 Performance Task Force.
“Anthony is passionate about our industry and has achieved some outstanding contributions that have impacted the future for us all,” said Alex Capecelatro, CEDIA board chairperson.
CEDIA Fellows: Patrick Hartman and Joe Wallace
The CEDIA Fellow designation is awarded to long-serving members who have significantly influenced the development of the association and the wider industry.
Patrick Hartman, general manager at Technology Design Associates in Reno, USA has worked in the AV and systems integration sector for 35 years. He has volunteered with CEDIA for 16 years, beginning as an instructor before taking on roles in professional development, industry leadership initiatives, and most recently serving as chair of the Instructor Working Group.
Joe Wallace, president of Wallace Integration Inc, brings more than 30 years of industry experience with a focus on large custom residential projects. His work with CEDIA includes helping to establish CEDIA University, leading the Education Content Action Team, contributing as a subject matter expert for certification exams, and serving on both the Certification Working Group and Instructor Working Group.
Both Fellows highlighted the importance of mentorship, education, and community throughout their time with CEDIA.
Recognition at CEDIA Smart Home Awards
Grimani, Hartman, and Wallace will be formally recognised during the 2025 CEDIA Smart Home Awards ceremonies across the Americas, APAC, and EMEA regions.