On Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2025, our members, partners, educators, students and parents gathered at the newly constructed Lake Estate on Winnisquam for one of the most meaningful events we host each year: Scholarship & Industry Night. As chairman, I was reminded once again why the work we do matters and why our commitment to the next generation remains one of the most important responsibilities we share. 

The evening brought together a diverse mix of people united by a simple, shared belief: New Hampshire’s automotive future relies on the young people who choose to follow our path, and it is our job to support and inspire them every step of the way.

Recognizing Excellence and Raising the Bar 

This year, our Education Foundation continued its strong tradition of investing in workforce development. The foundation awarded more than $60,000 in scholarships to students throughout the year, and we closed 2025 by awarding an additional $30,000 to eight exceptional CTE students.

Each student shared their vision for their future, their passion for the automotive field and the personal impact of receiving this support. Their sincerity and determination were reminders of the rewards of continuing to strengthen the pipeline between our schools and our industry.

2025 NHADA Scholarship Recipients

• $10,000 — Trevor Simino
  The Hugh J. Gallen CTC
  White Mountains Community College
• $5,000 — Brody Bray
  Portsmouth CTE
  In Memory of Paul Holloway
  Manchester Community College
• $5,000 — Logan Kundert
  Manchester School of Technology
  In Memory of George Dykstra
  Manchester Community College
• $2,000 — William Carson
  Concord Regional Technical Center
  Vin and Ruth Tulley Award
  Nashua Community College
• $2,000 — Christopher Barbagallo
  Salem CTE
  Vin and Ruth Tulley Award
  Manchester Community College
• $2,000 — Camden Cummings
  Nashua Technology Center
  In Memory of Dan McLeod
  Manchester Community College
• $2,000 — Griffin Patch
  Richard W. Creteau Regional Technology Center
  Lakes Region Community College
• $2,000 — Chase Paquette
  Concord Regional Technical Center
  Lakes Region Community College

We also proudly introduced three new recognitions that were awarded to deserving mentors and educators: 

• Mentor of the Year — Scott Kuhn, Merchants Fleet 
• CTE Automotive Teacher of the Year — David Lilly, Portsmouth CTE 
• Post-Secondary Automotive Teacher of the Year — Kim Stevenson, Lakes Region Community College

These awards honor those who guide, teach and invest in our students long before they reach our dealerships or shops. Their dedication is a crucial part of building a workforce that is skilled, motivated and ready for the opportunities ahead.

A Room Filled With Purpose 

Throughout the night, the room was alive with conversations between students and industry leaders. It was encouraging to see hiring managers, shop owners and technical educators making meaningful connections — that is where the real long-term impact begins.

Events like this don’t just celebrate achievement; they strengthen the bridge between education and employment. They give our students confidence and serve as a powerful reminder of why investing in workforce development must remain a priority.

Our Sponsors: The Backbone of Scholarship & Industry Night

The success of Scholarship & Industry Night is a direct reflection of the generosity and partnership of our sponsors. Their support ensures that scholarships grow, programs expand, and students continue to see the automotive industry as a promising and accessible career path.

Thank you to each of the many, many individuals and organizations whose generous support helped make this event possible. NHADA is deeply grateful for your investment in the future of the New Hampshire auto industry!