The International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS) has launched an award in memory of yacht and small craft marine surveyor, John Excell. The John Excell Award for Outstanding Achievement is open to all students enrolled on the distance learning diploma in marine surveying. It will be awarded on a periodical basis to deserving students – those who deliver not only outstanding academic achievements but who also demonstrate first-class interpersonal skills. Suitable recommendations will be put to the IIMS Education Committee for review and acceptance.
John Excell, who was an Honorary Fellow member of the Institute, died in April 2021 following a long illness at the age of just fifty-one. He held high office within the Institute and was Director of Yacht & Small Craft Surveying, a member of the management board, and an MCA coding examiner. John was passionate about training 
and sharing his knowledge with fellow surveyors and gave generously of his time to do so. It is, therefore, fitting that this award should be presented in his memory.
Speaking following the launch of this new award, IIMS Chief Executive Officer, Mike Schwarz, said, “John was a friend and a colleague. One of the good guys, he touched so many in the surveying and boating community and is sadly missed by fellow members and his clients. His life was cut tragically short. I can think of no finer way to keep his spirit alive than to have an education award that bears his name.”