Who We Are
History of the National Association of Railroad Referees (NARR)
The founding meetings to establish the National Association of Railroad Referees (NARR) were held in July 1991. During these meetings, the By-Laws were created, and Joseph A. Sickles was elected as the association’s Interim President.
The first Annual Meeting of NARR took place in May 1992, during which Joe Sickles was officially elected as NARR’s first President. Since its inception, NARR has served as a vital organization dedicated to the advancement and support of railroad arbitration.
Aims and Purposes
The National Association of Railroad Referees was founded with the following key objectives:
1. To promote the mutual exchange of ideas and information among its members concerning topics of mutual interest.
2. To communicate with the National Mediation Board and other appropriate agencies, groups, and organizations, offering aid and assistance in the promotion of railroad arbitration.
3. To be available to the National Mediation Board and other relevant entities to provide comments on various suggestions and requests as solicited.
4. To obtain and distribute information and documentation of interest to the professional pursuits of its members.
5. To engage in educational endeavors that further the knowledge and expertise of its members.
6. To take actions deemed appropriate by the Association to promote the interests of railroad arbitration and achieve its mission.
7. To enhance NARR’s effectiveness and creativity by incorporating diverse perspectives, experiences, backgrounds, talents, and information into the railroad arbitration arena.
Through these principles, NARR continues to uphold its commitment to fostering excellence in railroad arbitration and supporting the professional development of its members.
NARR Executive Board
Meeta Bass, President
Erica Tener, Secretary
Warren Dent, Treasurer
Michael Phillips, Vice President
Diego Peña, Vice President
Tom Pontolillo, Vice President
DeAndra Roaché, Vice President
NARR Past Presidents:
Joseph A. Sickles (1991–1994)
Herbert L. Marx, Jr. (1995–1998)
M. David Vaughn (1998–2000)
Francis X. Quinn (2000–2004)
M. David Vaughn (2004–2006)
Barry E. Simon (2006–2010)
Elizabeth C. Wesman (2010–2014)
Joshua M. Javits (2015–2016)
Joseph A. Cassidy (2018–2021)