WANADA hosted its Annual Meeting last Thursday evening at the iconic National Building Museum, bringing together 200 distinguished attendees from across the automotive industry and government. The event celebrated leadership transitions, honored long-standing service, and featured engaging entertainment and discussion.
Highlights included the installation of new WANADA Board members Ned Doetsch of Apple Ford and Vincent Sheehy V of Sheehy Auto Stores, marking a fresh chapter for the association. A ceremonial passing of the gavel saw outgoing Chairman Jamie Darvish of DARCARS hand leadership to incoming Chairman John Altman of Beyer Auto Group, underscoring WANADA’s commitment to continuity and progress.
A particularly moving moment came when Joe Koch presented Harold Redden with a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his remarkable 25 years of service to ADEI. Industry insights were front and center as NADA President Mike Stanton addressed the audience, followed by a comprehensive President’s Report from John O’Donnell and a Chairman’s Report from Jamie Darvish.
The evening wasn’t all business—attendees enjoyed stand-up comedy from impressionist Matt Friend, whose sharp wit and celebrity impressions kept the crowd laughing. The program concluded with a thought-provoking fireside chat moderated by former Governor Chris Christie, offering candid perspectives on leadership and policy.
The Annual Meeting showcased WANADA’s role as a unifying force for dealers, industry leaders, and policymakers, blending celebration with strategic dialogue to set the tone for the year ahead. Finally, WANADA would like to thank BG Crovato Products & Services, B&R Associates, CBM, Chesapeake Contracting Group, RBC Wealth Management, and Truist for generously sponsoring the event.
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