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“Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them – a desire, a dream, a vision… They have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.” — Muhammad Ali, Heavyweight Champion of the World

Dear Ford MDA Members, Supporters, and Friends,

Muhammad Ali’s words remind us that success is driven by an indomitable will. Over the past year, the resilience and determination of our Ford MDA dealers have exemplified this truth. In the face of industry challenges and change, you demonstrated the unwavering will to adapt and thrive. Whether navigating inventory shortages or economic shifts, you proved that the will to succeed truly can overcome obstacles. As we reflect on this year, we have much to be proud of – through unity and perseverance, we achieved tremendous successes. Here are some of the highlights of 2025 in review:

• Growth and representation: We welcomed numerous new minority dealers into the Ford MDA family, moving us closer to parity across all Ford and Lincoln dealerships. Each new dealership strengthens our voice and our mission of equal opportunity.
• Advocacy and support: We championed our members’ interests on crucial issues – even successfully overturning over $1 million in unfair fines through a dealer policy appeal. By standing together and speaking with one voice, we ensured that our collective concerns were heard by Ford leadership and no member had to face challenges alone.
• Education and development: We expanded training and professional development opportunities for our dealers and their employees. This year saw new webinars (in partnership with organizations like MDO), increased enrollment of dealership staff in NADA and NCM classes, and the launch of a bilingual training program with a technical college in Florida. We also mentored aspiring new dealers on their path toward ownership – investing in the next generation of minority dealership owners.
• Member engagement and value: We enhanced communication and outreach across our community. Ford MDA launched a quarterly newsletter to keep everyone informed and connected, and our team conducted numerous dealership site visits to understand members’ needs first-hand. We also expanded our digital presence (even reaching younger audiences through social media) to strengthen our network. Notably, we introduced new member benefits – including covering NAMAD membership dues and conference registration – to encourage every member’s engagement in the broader minority dealer community.
• Partnerships and events: We forged stronger partnerships with Ford Motor Company, Ford Credit, and industry allies, turning collaboration into tangible support for our dealers. Thanks to new vendor sponsorships and support (for example, from partners like CDK), our programs and events grew in impact. Our 12th Annual Conference, held this year in Palm Beach with the theme “United Voices, Accelerating Impact,” was a record-breaking success. With dealers, families, and partners gathered from across the country, we saw how speaking with a united voice truly amplifies our influence. The energy from that conference – through inspiring keynotes, workshops, and recognition of outstanding minority dealers – left our community more energized and united than ever.

All of these accomplishments reflect the power of resilience and our unwavering commitment to lift each other up. Together, we turned challenges into opportunities and kept our mission front and center.

Leadership Transitions and Gratitude
This year also brought significant changes in our association’s leadership. First and foremost, I want to thank Anthony Gordon for his strong and steady leadership as our Chairman. Under Anthony’s tenure (2024–2025), Ford MDA has grown stronger and more unified. His passion for our mission and his dedication to serving our members have inspired us all. We are deeply grateful for his guidance, and we know he will remain an important part of the Ford MDA family as he transitions to the role of Past Chairman.

We also extend our gratitude to our outgoing board members – Robert Valdes, Jay Gil, Terry Holmes, Nick Varela, and Zach Brandt – for their dedicated service. Each of these individuals has contributed to the success of our association through their time, insight, and leadership. Thank you for your service and the lasting impact you have had on Ford MDA.
At the same time, we are excited to welcome new leadership. Luis Somoano joins us as our incoming Chairman, and we look forward to the vision and energy he will bring to this role. Luis is a respected Ford dealer and a longtime advocate of our mission; I am confident that under his guidance, Ford MDA will continue to thrive. We are also pleased to welcome our newly elected board members: Darell Gallegos, Eddie Hall III, Michael “Mike” Lee, Jose Oliver, Parmjeet Matharu, and Jose Cazares. These new board members bring fresh perspectives and a shared passion for empowering minority dealers. We look forward to working with this talented team as they help lead Ford MDA into the future.

Looking Ahead
As we head into a new year, let us carry forward the theme of resilience that defined 2025. The coming year will surely bring new challenges and opportunities, but I am confident that our collective will to succeed will continue to be our greatest strength. Our mission – to champion parity and opportunity for minority dealers – remains our north star. By staying unified in purpose and supporting one another, we will build on this year’s momentum and reach even greater heights.

On behalf of the Ford MDA staff and leadership, thank you for being a part of this incredible community. It is my honor to serve as your Executive Director, and I am continually inspired by our dealers’ perseverance, faith, and drive. With faith, teamwork, and determination, we will continue to turn our dreams into reality. I look forward to another year of working together – fueled by our unwavering will to succeed – to advance our shared goals and ensure the success of every Ford minority dealer.

Sincerely,

Dr. A.V. Fleming,
Executive Director, Ford Minority Dealers Association