Mark Denkler will take over as the new president of the National Shoe Retailers Association (NSRA) effective January 1, 2021. Denkler replaces Chuck Schuyler who is retiring as NSRA president after 15 years of service.

Denkler, who was honored as the NSRA Retailer of the Year in 2016, began his career in the banking industry in Houston, Texas. In 1994, he and his wife LaRonda assumed ownership of Vince Canning Shoes in Delray Beach, Florida that had been started by his grandfather in 1952. They later purchased Tootsies Shoe Store in 2015.

First elected to NSRA's Board of Directors in 2004, Denkler has taken leadership roles on the Executive, Finance, Nominations for Directors and Officers, Benefits and Services, and the Informational Resources Committees. He was elected as chairman of NSRA's Board of Directors in 2011-2013 and again in 2019-2020. Denkler is active in the Delray Beach business community serving on various city advisory Boards and is involved in the Chamber of Commerce, Rotary Club and the Delray Merchant’s & Business Association.

Schuyler describes Denkler as “the perfect choice to take the NSRA to the next level,” noting Denkler’s experience as a banker, retailer and active member of the Association. “He understands our industry, the NSRA and our members,” says Schuyler. “He will be able to address the needs of the independent retailers and footwear vendors as we address new challenges in the coming years.”

“I am very honored to assume the leadership of the NSRA,” says Denkler. “The Association certainly helped my wife and I become successful shoe retailers, and I look forward to continuing to give back to the organization. I thank Chuck Schuyler for all he has contributed to the success of the Association and the independent shoe retailers. We hope to expand our work in helping our members as we begin a new era in a post-pandemic economy. Whether it’s using technology and social media, sourcing new product or planning for the next generation, the NSRA will continue to provide top-notch education and resources to our vendors and retailers. We want to make the industry a better place to work and live.”