Celebrating the Changes Ahead

Jul 1, 2022 | Industry

By Sandy Blalock • ARA Executive Director

The 79th Annual Convention and Expo planning is well under way, and we have some great programs, presentations, networking opportunities and, of course, all of the best vendors in the industry are scheduled to take part in this event. We have lots of fun planned as well and this year we are at Disney so plan to bring the entire family.

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As we prepare to celebrate this event in 2022, we want you to know that this Convention is your association’s way of bringing the latest information, training, products and services available to the professional automotive recycler. We always work hard with a committee of your recycling peers to make sure that the entire event is right on target for what the industry needs today.

This year we will see another change in leadership as Shan Lathem, only the fourth woman to ever take the leadership reins of ARA is inducted into the presidency of ARA. Shan will bring her own unique touch to the role of president and many in our industry are excited to see her shine. She brings not only her experience over the last three years of being on the Executive Committee (EC), but many years in leadership, including serving as president, with the Florida Automotive Dismantlers and Recyclers Association (FADRA). With the Convention being held in her home state we hope that we will see lots of Florida auto recyclers there to welcome her into her new leadership position.

Marty Hollingshead will pass the gavel to Shan as he prepares for his final year on the executive committee as immediate past president. Marty is a huge asset to ARA and made many contributions to the industry during his time in leadership. He is a one-of-a-kind industry advocate that has selflessly led ARA as our industry continues to evolve and grow, to assure we guide the industry into the future.

What has always amazed me is how the dynamics of the leadership of ARA every year finds a way to have a positive impact on auto recycling and the membership of ARA. As we emerge from the global pandemic and continue to focus on how to continue growth and profitability for the professional auto recycling industry, we will welcome in the newest member of the Executive Committee leadership team, Shannon Nordstrom.

I don’t think he needs an introduction because Shannon is a successful multi- generational auto recycler who has led our ARA Certification Program for many years. He is a testament to all that the potential certification offers to professional automotive recyclers. He will be a great asset to ARA in his new role and I look forward to watching him grow into his future role as President in four years.

We will also, sadly, see Scott Robertson leave the EC and continue onto the ARA Board of Directors as Past President. Scott led ARA through some of our toughest times and served not one but two terms as President due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Scott, we will miss your leadership but know that you will always support ARA in the future.

Our heartfelt prayers will continue for ARA 2nd Vice President Nick Daurio and his family as they continue to mourn the loss of Nick’s father, John A. Daurio, Sr. John Sr. founded Daurio Auto-Truck Inc. in 1957. It has expanded into a third-generation business due to his leadership and success. This year, Nick will move into the 1st Vice President position on the EC. I’d like to close with a reminder you that you can meet all of ARA’s leadership at our 79th Annual Convention and Expo September 22-24th at Disney’s Dolphin resort. Register today at www.a-r-a.com/convention!

Reach Sandy Blalock at sandy@a-r-a.org. Share your thoughts pertaining to the advancement of professional automotive recycling. Your letter could be published in an upcoming issue.

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