Page 4 - VIADA Directory 2020

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Unity and Power with One Voice we will continue
to be successful…VIADA is the very best Trade
Association in the country. In 2020 we will
celebrate our 60th anniversary. The ability to
promptly recognize industry changes is one of
our greatest assets. Because of these constant
industry fluctuations, our goal is for our members
to have the answers to their questions easily at
their fingertips. The Association strives to elevate
and improve our compliance education and skill development.

We need to stand firmly united in every situation concerning the Virginia Dealer
at the legislative level; together we are stronger. We desire to have an open-door
relationship with the MVDB, knowing their goals are to serve us as well as the public
with transparency, good character, and integrity. The Dealer Board is a tremendous
asset to all Dealers, protecting our stability and longevity. The Board is made up of the
Don Sullivan, Sr., President Chairman and Executive Director, who are both appointed by the Governor. 10 of our
Sullivan Auto Trading fellow Dealers, both franchise and independent, are appointed to serve 4-year terms.
Fredericksburg, VA By having licensed dealers on the Board, who understand the day-to-day challenges
of conducting our business in today’s market, we are governed and guided by trust-
worthy peers. The MVDB staff is the heartbeat of the Dealer Board and of VIADA,
making our ever-growing, ever-changing Industry in Virginia superlative.
I have been in the presence of auto dealers since the age of 15, and during those many seasons, I have been fortunate
enough to meet and learn from several in the Eastern region. My VIADA membership made it possible to develop
relationships with the very best in the country. It has opened my eyes to the big picture of this industry. By sharing years
of experience and knowledge with dealers who have integrity second to none, I became a more successful dealer. The
VIADA Board of Directors is made up of a youthful group of dealers who are capable of changing and growing at a rapid
pace. Supporting them is a cornerstone of legends that set the foundation of this great independent dealer association;
with our combined vision there is more greatness to come. I am confident that in every way, we are entering a future far
beyond our expectations.

The Association is extremely pleased to announce Alvin Melendez as our new Executive Director. Alvin came aboard
in July of 2019 with the task of organizing our convention in just two short months. With the help of his staff, he did a
phenomenal job, and with many extra hours of dedication, we had a tremendously successful Convention. Alvin has over
a 30-year career, both on the franchise side and as an independent owner; he is a past VIADA State President, and a
Certified Master Dealer. Alvin has a unique talent for organizing and inspiring those around him. Watching him bring the
very best out of his team shows the very impressive leadership skills needed to take the Association to a new level of
excellence.

The Convention atmosphere was refreshing. Social gatherings and networking were a time of fun, laughter, and relaxation,
creating memories that last forever. Our nationally recognized Speakers were excellent with vision and wisdom, giving
everyone endless new ideas to take back to our dealerships. The Workshops were enlightening and informative, making
us aware of our future and opportunities. The Vendors and Expo tables were very fruitful with info and opportunity. I want
to point out that our faithful Vendors continue to be a strong source of support that make the Association stable year
after year. It takes both the dealer and vendor supporting each other to make all things work for the good. We have the
very best in the business with our Vendor's state of the art tools, resources, and intuitive ideas constantly giving us the
opportunity to grow.

This year’s 60th-anniversary convention will truly be a history maker for our Association. We encourage you to plan ahead
so you can attend. We need your participation and support for the Association to be its best. We are stronger together.

2 | 2020 VIADA Membership and Services Directory