principal of Leith Inc., later serving as president and CEO beginning in 2003. Over a career spanning more than 41 years, Linda led the growth of the dealership group while building a strong culture and leadership team. In 2024, she guided the successful transition of ownership of Leith’s 39-franchise dealership group to the Holman family, ensuring the company’s continued success. Beyond business, Linda has been a dedicated supporter of charitable, cultural and youth-focused organizations, including the American Heart Association, Veterans Life Center, Hope Reins, Haven House Services and Foundation for Hope. She established the Linda J. Leith Family Foundation to continue supporting these organizations and community initiatives for generations to come. 2026 TIME ALLY DEALER OF THE YEAR Each year, NCADA has the opportunity to recognize a dealer who represents everything the franchised dealer community stands for. This year that dealer is Alycia Kellum of Don Williamson Nissan in Jacksonville, recognized during the dealer recognition ceremony as North Carolina’s 2026 TIME Ally Dealer of the Year nominee. She was introduced by Neill Nelson, last year’s nominee, who spoke about her leadership and her effect on the franchised dealer community. Kellum was presented with the #1DEALER frame in recognition of the honor. A second-generation dealer and a former NCADA Chair, Kellum has spent her career on the things that don’t show up on a monthly statement: developing the people who work for her, backing up her fellow dealers and investing in the communities her stores reside in. Her record of advocacy and service within the association runs long enough that a fair number of members have benefited from it without knowing whose work it was. Leadership, community and leaving the industry better positioned for the people who come next; that’s what the TIME Ally award is for, and that’s why her name is on it. NCADA congratulates Alycia and is proud to have her represent North Carolina. 15
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