There is something special about gathering together as an association.
Each year, our Family Convention gives us the opportunity to step away from the day-to-day demands of running a dealership and reconnect with colleagues who understand both the challenges and the rewards of our business. As I reflect on our time together at Nemacolin for the 2026 Family Convention, I am filled with gratitude — for the friendships we strengthened, the new connections we made and the commitment we share to moving our industry forward.
On behalf of the Kentucky Automobile Dealers Association, thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2026 Family Convention. Your participation made the event an incredible success. Whether you attended the general sessions and heard from our great lineup of speakers, connected with our outstanding sponsors and exhibitors, participated in family activities or simply took time to visit with fellow dealers, you helped create an atmosphere that showcased the very best of our association.
One of the things I appreciate most about KADA is that our members are always willing to share ideas and help one another succeed. The conversations that happen between sessions, over meals and throughout the convention often become just as valuable as the presentations themselves. Our members all face many of the same opportunities and challenges, and there is tremendous value in learning from one another.
I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to our sponsors, exhibitors and preferred partners. Their continued investment in KADA allows us to provide quality educational programming, meaningful networking opportunities and valuable member services throughout the year. We are fortunate to have partners who are committed to the success of Kentucky’s franchised automobile dealers, and we thank them for their unwavering support.
While convention is one of the highlights of our year, it is only one part of the work your association does on your behalf. Every day, KADA advocates for dealers in Frankfort, provides educational opportunities through Kentucky Dealer University, offers legal and regulatory resources, and works to ensure that Kentucky dealerships remain strong and competitive.
As we look toward the months ahead, I encourage every member to stay engaged. Attend a Kentucky Dealer University class. Participate in your district meetings. Build relationships with your elected officials. Reach out to fellow dealers and share ideas. The more involved we are, the stronger our collective voice becomes.
Our industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Technology, consumer expectations, workforce development, and legislative issues all present new opportunities and challenges. Through it all, KADA remains focused on providing the resources, advocacy and connections you need to succeed.
Most importantly, never underestimate the impact our dealerships have on the communities we serve. Across Kentucky, dealerships are creating jobs, supporting local charities, sponsoring youth programs and helping drive economic growth. We are more than businesses — we are community partners, employers and neighbors. That legacy is something we should all be proud of.
Thank you for your continued support of KADA and for everything you do to strengthen our industry. I look forward to seeing many of you throughout the coming months as we continue working together to build an even stronger future for Kentucky’s automobile dealers.
