AASA/OAC memorial scholarship to honor Jeremy Denton

Nov. 13, 2014

The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) and the Overseas Automotive Council (OAC) established a scholarship fund through the University of the Aftermarket Foundation in memory of the late Jeremy Denton, who died Nov. 5, 2013.

The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the light vehicle aftermarket division of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), and the AASA Overseas Automotive Council (OAC) established a scholarship fund through the University of the Aftermarket Foundation in memory of the late Jeremy Denton, AASA vice president and OAC executive director, who died Nov. 5, 2013.

The OAC Board of Directors has initiated the memorial fund with a grant of $36,000. The Jeremy Denton Memorial Scholarship Fund will present two $1,000 annual scholarships designated for one male and one female student pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket industry.

“Jeremy Denton was an exemplary employee and a valued asset to our associations from 2005 until the sudden onset of his illness in 2011,” said Bill Long, AASA president and chief operating officer. “These scholarships are a truly fitting memorial to Jeremy’s passion for the aftermarket and his boundless enthusiasm for its future.”

“We are establishing this scholarship as a lasting testament of Jeremy’s character and contributions to our organization and the industry,” said Carol Perrotta, manager, operations, Intraco Corp. and chairperson of the OAC. “We invite others in the industry who had the pleasure of knowing and working with Jeremy to consider making a contribution to remember him in this way.”

Denton joined MEMA in 2005 as director, programs and member services, and OAC executive director. In addition, he directed the activities of the Filter Manufacturers Council (FMC) and the Brake Manufacturers Council (BMC), and also served as staff executive of the AASA China Aftermarket Forum (CAF).

In 2010, Denton was promoted to AASA vice president, programs and member services. His responsibilities included membership recruitment and retention, event planning, sponsorships and affiliate development, in addition to his continuing roles with the OAC, FMC, BMC and CAF. He died in 2013 at age 36 after a valiant, two-year battle with cancer.

Donations can be made to by sending checks payable to The Jeremy Denton Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o Susan Medick The Auto Care Association, 7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1300, Bethesda, MD 20814.

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