In recognition of its former President and CEO Al Gaspar, the Auto Care Association has established a memorial fund in his honor. Donations made to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation in Gaspar’s memory will be used to fund scholarships and industry educational initiatives.
Gaspar, who passed away in November at the age of 79, served as president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), the precursor to the Auto Care Association, from 2000 until 2004. Two of his biggest accomplishments during his tenure at AAIA included overseeing a fundraising effort to build the Aftermarket Education Center at Northwood University and directing the effort to raise funds for the research that led to the creation of the Car Care Council.
“We couldn’t imagine a better way to honor the legacy of a leader who meant so much not only to the history of our association, but also our industry,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association. “Al’s vision has progressed our industry in countless ways and we have all benefitted from his passion and foresight of what our association and industry can be.”
Gaspar spent over 40 years in the auto care industry, serving as president of the Automotive Parts and Accessories Association (APAA) for five years prior to joining AAIA. He also held a variety of roles at aftermarket companies, including executive vice president at McKay Chemical Company (a division of Blue Coral); vice president, consumer sales for Wynn Oil Company and vice president, sales and marketing worldwide operations for Bardahl Manufacturing. Gaspar was received numerous honors throughout his career and served on a number of boards and committees.
“Al Gaspar was committed to industry education as evidenced by his time at AAIA, so it is fitting that donations made in his name will help educate the next generation of aftermarket leaders,” said Bob Egan, MAAP, chairman, University of the Aftermarket Foundation. ”We thank the Auto Care Association for launching this effort and encourage others to follow their lead by making a donation in memory of Al Gaspar.”
To make a donation to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation in memory of Al Gaspar, visit www.UofAFoundation.com to donate online or send a check made payable to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation to 7101 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 1300, Bethesda, MD 20814 and indicate that the donation is in Gaspar’s memory.
About the University of the Aftermarket Foundation
Since 1986, the University of the Aftermarket Foundation has funded millions of dollars of scholarships, grants, research and ongoing educational programs to help develop a strong, knowledgeable aftermarket work force. The foundation encourages industry support, including donations for the purpose of honoring or memorializing individuals or otherwise recognizing special events, to help ensure the continued availability of training and education that strengthen the industry. The University of the Aftermarket Foundation is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization and all contributions are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. For more information, visit www.UofAFoundation.com.
