AWDA Conference: University of the Aftermarket chairman champions education, scholarships at AWDA luncheon 

Nov. 5, 2024
Roger McCollum reinforces educating the next generation and honors trustees.

During the AWDA Monday afternoon luncheon, which recognized the educational commitment of the association, Roger McCollum, University of the Aftermarket Foundation chairman, stressed that education was paramount to the organizations’ joint mission. “It is simply education. And we're focused on that … and those scholarships are all about these guys,” he said, pointing to a slide of recent scholarship recipients. “These kids are great kids.”

 

He applauded the readers—those who review and select scholarship winners—and celebrated the caliber of students being offered opportunities. “We have awarded 327 scholarships to kids last year in the amount of $710,000,” McCollum said.

 

He also recognized the organization’s new Lifetime Trustees: Pete and Lorraine Kornafel, NexaMotion, Sylvania, and The Washbish family; and its Level Up! New Gold Lifetime Trustees: Bosch, First Brands Group, O’Reilly Auto Parts, The Williams Family/N.A. Williams.

 

McCollum concluded his talk by discussing the success of the Celebrate Mort Campaign, in honor of Mort Schwartz, who for his 90th birthday wants to support the University of the Aftermarket Foundation through scholarships and educational programs funded by UAF. The event raised $350,000 through its Celebrate Mort Reception held on Saturday, Nov. 2 at The Venetian Hotel. 

About the Author

Chris Jones | Editorial Director

Chris Jones is Group Editorial Director for the Vehicle Repair Group at Endeavor Business Media. He’s a multiple-award-winning editor and journalist and a certified project manager now providing editorial leadership and brand strategy for the auto care industry's most trusted automotive repair publications—Ratchet+Wrench, Modern Tire Dealer, National Oil & Lube News, FenderBender, ABRN, Professional Distributor, PTEN, Motor Age, and Aftermarket Business World.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tesla service, repair, and diagnostics

Keep update-to-date on how to maintain your customer's Tesla vehicles.

Tool Review: Ascot Supply 3/4" Drive 600 ft-lbs Split Beam Torque Wrench, No. 168-00600

Reviewed by Eric Moore, manager at DeMary Truck in Columbus, Ohio.

Diagnosing an engine misfire

Recognizing a misfire is the easy part; the challenge is determining its cause.

The ‘Iron Giant’

This technician spent two and half years putting together his ‘giant’ of a toolbox setup.

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!