representing Buick, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Jeep and Ram. “In my career, I have been very fortunate to work with three of the five generations of Smarts,” he said. “The wealth of experience that I’ve had access to has positioned both the dealership group and me for success. To this day, when weighing important decisions, we often find ourselves asking what my grandfather would do.” With such a historic connection to the automobile industry in his state and a deep understanding of the issues that face dealers, Smart was named chair of the Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association in 2024, where he previously served in leadership positions. Interestingly, his great-grandfather was the association’s first president in 1932. Smart also contributes to the communities that have supported his family for more than a century. He is a member of the Pine Bluff Regional Chamber of Commerce, White Hall Chamber of Commerce and the Malvern/Hot Spring County Chamber of Commerce. The Smart Auto Group gives back by sponsoring numerous events locally, including the Miracle Ball and Festival of Stars Toy and Donation Drive for Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Chili Fights in the Heights to support the Arkansas Foodbank, and Jefferson County Kids Fest. He also supports Go Forward Pine Bluff, a group that is dedicated to economic development and improving the quality of life in the city where his family’s first dealership was founded so many years ago. “Our dealerships have been and always will be a mainstay in the communities in which we are located,” Smart said. “Through a multitude of efforts, we have contributed to the well-being of the people we serve. No matter how much our business evolves, we will stay true to that principle.” Dealers are nominated by the executives of state and metro dealer associations around the country. A panel of faculty members from the Tauber Institute for Global Operations at the University of Michigan will select one finalist from each of the four NADA regions and one national Dealer of the Year. Three finalists receive $5,000 for their favorite charities and the winner receives $10,000 to give to charity, donated by Ally. In its 14th year as an exclusive sponsor, Ally also will recognize dealer nominees and their community efforts by contributing $1,000 to each nominee’s 501(c)3 charity of choice. Nominees are recognized on AllyDealerHeroes.com, which highlights the philanthropic contributions and achievements of TIME Dealer of the Year nominees. “At TIME, our commitment to recognizing the exceptional contributions of automotive dealers remains as strong as ever,” said Jessica Sibley, CEO of TIME. “The TIME Dealer of the Year award continues to celebrate those who not only excel in their profession but also make a meaningful impact in their communities. We are thrilled to continue this legacy in partnership with Ally.” Doug Timmerman, Ally president of Dealer Financial Services, said, “Auto dealers are the backbones of their communities, providing civic support and significant business leadership. Ally is proud to recognize the unwavering commitment these TIME Dealer of the Year nominees are living every day through their volunteerism, sponsorships and support of charitable causes. They are the epitome of community heroes, making important and positive impacts in the lives of the people they serve.” Smart was nominated for the TIME Dealer of the Year award by Greg Kirkpatrick, president of the Arkansas Automobile Dealers Association. Smart and his wife, Sarah, have two children. 8 Arkansas Auto Dealer
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