What's Happening?
Clint Newell, a local auto dealer, has been nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award, one of the automobile industry's most prestigious honors. This nomination places Newell among a select group
of 47 dealer nominees nationwide who will be recognized at the 109th annual National Automobile Dealers Association Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, on February 5th, 2026. Newell represents the Oregon Auto Dealers Association in the national competition for the 57th annual award, chosen from over 20,000 dealers across the country. His dealership, Clint Newell Toyota, employs 80 team members in Roseburg, Oregon. Newell has a history of investing in his business and community, including a $1.8 million remodel of his dealership and the establishment of a technician education/apprenticeship program. His community service includes founding the Music on the Half Shell concert series and serving on various local committees.
Why It's Important?
The nomination of Clint Newell for the TIME Dealer of the Year award highlights the significant role that local businesses can play in community development and service. This recognition not only underscores Newell's success in the automotive industry but also his commitment to community engagement and support. Such awards can inspire other business leaders to prioritize community service alongside business growth. The award also brings attention to the importance of local dealerships in the broader economic landscape, emphasizing their role in job creation and local economic development. Newell's initiatives, such as the technician education program, contribute to workforce development, which is crucial for sustaining industry growth and innovation.
What's Next?
The next steps involve the selection process for the TIME Dealer of the Year award, where a panel from the Tauber Institute for Global Operations at the University of Michigan will choose one finalist from each of four NADA regions and one national Dealer of the Year. The finalists will receive monetary awards for their chosen charities, with the national winner receiving $10,000 donated by ALLY Financial. This process will culminate in the award ceremony at the NADA Show in February 2026, where the contributions of these dealers to their communities and the industry will be celebrated.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate recognition, Newell's nomination may encourage other dealers to adopt similar community-focused initiatives, potentially leading to a broader cultural shift within the industry. The emphasis on community service as a criterion for such awards could drive more businesses to integrate social responsibility into their core operations. This could lead to long-term benefits for communities, including increased support for local events, educational programs, and charitable activities.
