Deadline to apply is
January 10, 2025
A commitment to elevating women in automotive retail
Cars Commerce has supported Women of Color Automotive Network (WOCAN) since its inception and we are excited to extend our partnership with Cars Commerce to help women grow their careers in automotive and accelerate their path to leadership. As part of that, Cars Commerce is donating $20,000 toward the WOCAN-Bob Ross Legacy Scholarship to fund education for minority women in automotive retail!
This donation further supports Cars Commerce’s mission to promote diversity in the automotive industry and honors the 50th anniversary of the Bob Ross Automotive group, the first and only African-American owned dealership to reach that milestone. The dealer is now run by Dealer principal and Cars Commerce Board Member, Jenell Ross, who carries on her father's legacy.
Scholarship Details
The WOCAN-Bob Ross Legacy Scholarship, powered by Cars Commerce, will award eight scholarships, each valued at $2,500, to exceptional women working in the automotive dealership sector. This limited opportunity offers recipients the chance to attend one of several premier industry events that foster learning, growth, and networking.
What will the scholarship cover?
Each scholarship provides $2,500 in financial assistance to cover event registration fees, travel, and accommodations to attend one of several premier industry events (see eligible conferences and events). Please note that WOCAN will disburse the funds to recipients as a reimbursement.
Who is eligible?
Open to WOCAN members working in automotive dealerships in any role. Applicants must complete an online application, including a short essay on how the scholarship will support their career goals. Plus, submit a post-event video sharing their experience.
What is the Selection Process?
WOCAN and Cars Commerce will evaluate the applications received and select the eight most compelling applications based on the following criteria:
Previous Scholarship Winnings
Career Journey and Trajectory
Financial Need
Career Goals
Eligible Conferences and Events:
NADA Show 2025: January 23-26, 2025
Auto News Retail Forum at NADA Show: January 23, 2025
J.D. Power Auto Summit at NADA Show: January 23, 2025
David Kain Clients and Friends Digital Success Workshop: April 2025
Cherokee Media Group Auto Intel Summit: April 8-10
J.D. Power/NADA New York Auto Forum: April 15, 2025
Digital Marketing Strategies Conference: April 27-29
ASOTU CON 2025: May 13-16
WardsAuto AutoTech Detroit: June 3-5
NIADA Convention & Expo 2025: June 23-25
NAMAD Conference: August 26-29