Hackett, Stanton Inducted into NIADA’s Ring of Honor

National Auto Auction Association chief executive officer Frank Hackett and NADA Used Car Guide vice president and chief operating officer Mike Stanton have been selected as the newest members of the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association’s prestigious Ring of Honor.

Hackett and Stanton became the 24th and 25th industry leaders to be inducted into the Ring of Honor, NIADA’s highest award to a non-dealer. The awards were announced during Wednesday’s National Leadership Awards Banquet at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, part of the 68th NIADA Convention and Expo.

NIADA’s Ring of Honor recognizes allied industry leaders who have contributed to the professionalism and growth of the automobile industry through outstanding performance and leadership.

Hackett, a former county sheriff, has been NAAA’s CEO since 2004, helping implement industrywide standards and create close ties between the auction association and NIADA. The two associations have joined together to help advocate for the auto industry in Washington D.C., and recently merged their publications to better disseminate information to dealers and auctions across the country.

“Frank has always been a strong advocate for our dealers, our associations, and the industry as a whole,” NIADA Executive Vice President Steve Jordan said. “Like our other Ring of Honor members, he has dedicated his career to the automotive industry, always giving of his time and resources to improve the industry and to assist its dealers.”

Stanton’s automotive career spans more than 20 years, beginning in sales, marketing, business management and distribution roles with Nissan and Isuzu. He joined the National Auto Dealers Association in 2000 as national sales manager of NADA Used Car Guide Company and earned a promotion to association director, presenting dealer interests to manufacturers. He returned to NADA Used Car Guide as vice president and COO in 2006.

“Over the years, Mike has been instrumental in working closely with NIADA, assisting the association and promoting the professionalism of independent dealers throughout the country,” Jordan said. “We’re proud to welcome him as a deserving member of our Ring of Honor.”