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DEA

Automobile Dealer Education Awards

About DEA

The Northwood Dealer Education Award was developed by Northwood University to recognize automobile dealers across the United States for their dedication and contributions to the advancement of education, both inside and out of the automotive industry. 

Since 1972, Northwood has recognized Franchise owners and dealer principals in the automotive marketing field who have made noteworthy, individual contributions to public or private education. 

The awards ceremony is held in conjunction with the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) convention to be held this year in Las Vegas, NV.

Dealer Education Awards

Hosted at the 2026 NADA Show
February 5, 2026

Nominations are open!

SUBMIT A NOMINATION
Three people stand in front of a Northwood University backdrop, each holding a framed award certificate, celebrating excellence in university automotive achievements.

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DSMA logo with overlapping square icons on the right, reflecting a university automotive vibe, and the slogan "REAL PEOPLE. REAL DEAL." written below in blue text.

DEA Awardees

2025 NADA DEA Awards

Clifford Cicotte
President
Spirit Ford

Kristin Dillard Sodoma
President Dealer Principal
Team Automotive Group

Todd Szott
Dealer Partner
Szott Auto Group

A man in a suit and a woman in a blue outfit pose with an award in front of a Northwood University automotive table, flag, and an American flag.
Two men in suits stand at a podium during a formal university event, with a presentation screen showcasing automotive topics and a flag visible in the background.
A large group of people seated at round tables in a university banquet hall listen to speakers at a podium during a formal automotive event.
A woman in a blue patterned suit and hat speaks at a podium with the Wynn logo, addressing university and automotive leaders, with an American flag and another flag in the background.
Two men stand in front of a Northwood University automotive backdrop, with one holding a framed certificate that reads "Todd Scott.
Two women stand in front of a Northwood University automotive backdrop; one holds a framed certificate while both smile at the camera.
Three men in suits sit at a round table in a university conference room, with automotive documents spread before them, brown curtains, and empty chairs in the background.
Two men in business attire stand in front of a Northwood University backdrop; one holds a framed certificate that reads "Cliff Coone," highlighting university automotive achievements.

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