Immediate Past President

Albert F. Brandel of Melville, New York, USA, was elected president of The International Association of Lions Clubs at the association's 91st International Convention, held in Bangkok, Thailand, June 23-27, 2008.

He is a retired police detective. For many years he investigated child abuse and neglect, juvenile delinquency, domestic violence involving children and missing children.

A member of the West Hempstead Lions Club since 1975 and an associate member of the Melville Lions Club, Past International President Brandel has held many offices in the association, including club president, district governor and international director. He has also served as a presenter and panelist at USA/Canada Lions Leadership Forums. He worked with the Long Island Lions Eye Bank as a transporter and has been the Lions Representative to UNICEF in New York for 10 years. He helped coordinate Lions relief efforts at the World Trade Center following September 11, 2001.

In recognition of his contributions, he has received numerous awards, including the 100% Club President Award, the 100% District Governor Award, 15 International President's Awards and the Ambassador of Good Will Award, the highest award the association grants to its members. He is also a Progressive Melvin Jones Fellow.

In addition to his Lions activities, he has served as a Little League volunteer and as a Eucharistic minister. He is a former member of the board of directors of the United Nations Association of the USA.