Midland, Michigan — Northwood University presents its annual dealer education awards to five national auto dealers at the National Auto Dealers Association (NADA) convention in Dallas, Texas.
This year’s winners are:
• Rik Fregia, Vice President, Courtesy Automotive Group, Danville, IL
• Jamar Brinkley, Dealer Principal, Renaissance Cars, Roanoke Rapids, NC
• Chris Saraceno, Vice President and Partner, Kelly Automotive Group, Melbourne, Florida
• Brandon Tomes, Owner and General Manager, Tomes Auto Group, McKinney, TX
• Kevin Vanatta, owner of Newberry Motors, Inc., Newberry, Michigan
Since 1972, Northwood has recognized owner and dealer principals in the automotive marketing field for their notable individual contributions to public and private education within and outside the industry.
“This is our 51st year of recognizing outstanding dealer and community leaders who have made a significant contribution to our industry and to the development of the next generation of automotive leaders,” said Kent McDonald, president of Northwood. increase. “We are especially proud of this year’s winners and look forward to celebrating them later this month.”
Awards will be presented at a special Saturday breakfast at the Hyatt Regency in Dallas, Texas. Attendees will include Northwood University students, alumni, and automotive guests.
Rik Fregia is Vice President of Courtesy Automotive Group in Danville. Fresia started his automotive career at a Ford dealership owned by his father. When Ray Fregia Sr. retired and sold the shop, Rik Fregia teamed up with his younger brother Ray.
Fresia, who supports local organizations, has served on the board of the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce and Deer Crossing. He also chairs the New Hope His Baptist Church Scholarship Committee, which helps local high school seniors earn college degrees.
Fregia’s commitment to the community has earned her a Pride in Crystal Lake Award, a McHenry County Best Under 40 Businessman Outstanding Achiever Award, Automotive News’ 40 Under 40, and a Presidential Award of Excellence.