The Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA) recognized five outstanding individuals and dealerships during the inaugural Drive for Excellence Awards, presented July 21 as part of the CATA Annual Meeting and Golf Outing at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club.

The new awards program celebrates exceptional leadership, innovation, customer service and community engagement among CATA member dealerships throughout Chicagoland. The recipients were selected from an impressive field of nominations that showcased the talent, dedication and impact of professionals across the association's dealer network.

"The Drive for Excellence Awards recognize the people and organizations who represent the very best of our industry," said CATA President Jennifer Morand. "Whether serving customers, supporting their communities, embracing innovation or leading the next generation of dealership excellence, these recipients exemplify the values that strengthen our association and move the industry forward."

2026 Drive for Excellence Award Recipients

Outstanding Sales Performer Award: Damian Gabrus, Hawk Volkswagen of Joliet

The Outstanding Sales Performer Award recognizes a dealership sales professional who consistently delivers exceptional results while providing an outstanding customer experience. Gabrus was honored for helping lead Hawk Volkswagen of Joliet to become the No. 1 Volkswagen dealership in Illinois for sales over the past decade while consistently ranking among the state's top Volkswagen sales professionals and fostering a customer-focused sales culture.

Finalists: Kaine Garcia (Gerald Ford), Jorge Guzman (Webb Chevrolet Oak Lawn), Susan Jimenez (Community Honda of Orland Park) and Keith Tennyson (Fields Lexus Glenview).

Next-Gen Award: Olivia Alfirevich, Apple Chevrolet

Recognizing an emerging leader making a significant impact early in their career, the Next-Gen Award was presented to Alfirevich for transforming Apple Chevrolet's human resources, marketing and digital engagement efforts through innovative technologies and forward-thinking leadership. She was also recognized for modernizing dealership operations, integrating AI across multiple departments and applying insights gained through NADA's Next Gen program.

Finalists: Andreas Korallus (Volvo of Lisle), Ray Scarpelli III (Ray Chevrolet) and Salina Villarreal (Fields Lexus Glenview).

Parts and Service Superstar Award: James Carver, Romeoville Toyota

The Parts and Service Superstar Award honors excellence in dealership fixed operations. Carver was recognized for his unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence, creating an efficient service operation while ensuring every customer receives an exceptional experience.

Finalists: Oscar Bautista (Al Piemonte Nissan), Angel Quinones (Al Piemonte Nissan) and Nicholas Ruffolo (Rohrman Automotive Group).

Community Impact Award: Webb Automotive Group

The Community Impact Award recognizes a dealership that demonstrates an outstanding commitment to charitable partnerships, volunteerism and community engagement. Webb Automotive Group was honored for its ongoing support of organizations including the USO, Hyundai Hope on Wheels, local schools and community programs, as well as its Ride for the Troops and Drive for the Troops initiatives. Employees were also recognized for their volunteerism and efforts that have helped raise more than $50,000 for the USO while supporting numerous local charitable initiatives.

Finalists: Gregory Auto Group Hyundai/Genesis, Larry Roesch Volkswagen, Ray Chevrolet/Ray CDJR, Raymond Chevrolet Kia and Rohrman Automotive Group.

Innovative Marketing Award: Brilliance Subaru

Brilliance Subaru received the Innovative Marketing Award for transforming its Brilliance Subaru Loves Pets program into a signature community initiative. Through its partnership with Anderson Humane, the dealership has helped more than 1,100 rescue animals find homes since 2021 while strengthening community engagement and brand awareness through meaningful customer connections.

Finalist: Rohrman Automotive Group.

"The caliber of this year's nominations speaks volumes about the professionals and dealerships serving our industry," Morand said. "We congratulate all of our finalists and award recipients for setting the standard for excellence and inspiring others through their leadership, innovation and commitment to their customers and communities."

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About the Chicago Automobile Trade Association

Founded in 1904 and located in Oakbrook Terrace, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association is comprised of more than 400 franchised new-car dealers and an additional 150 allied members. The group’s dealer members employ about 19,000 people in the metropolitan area. The association has produced the world famous Chicago Auto Show since 1935. For more information, please visit www.CATA.info.