Maureen LaFontaine will be one of four women to recieve the 2014 Women’s Automotive Association Spirit of Leadership Award. The award recognizes outstanding professional achievements and contributions to the growth, stature and progress of the automotive industry.
“The women we’ve chosen to honor are noted not only for their extraordinary careers, but also as role models and mentors in the automotive industry and their community,” said Lorraine Schultz, WAAI founder and CEO. “They truly embody the spirit of leadership, and we are proud to recognize their accomplishments.”
Maureen LaFontaine stands in Lady La’s Boutique, located inside LaFontaine Cadillac Buick GMC in Highland, MI. Photo Credit: / Hal Gould | Staff Photographer Hometownlife.com
Established in 1999, the WAAI’s “Spirit of Leadership” award is presented annually to professional women in the automotive industry in recognition of their significant accomplishments in their profession, community, and family.
These women have dedicated their life to their profession and to giving back to others; and they serve as mentors and are role models to us all. Sustained superior performance, community involvement, influence and support of other women within the automotive industry are just some of the qualities these women possess.
Maureen and the other nominees will be honored at the 15th Annual Spirit of Leadership Awards Reception on Jan. 25 that takes place during the 2014 NADA Convention in New Orleans. A portion of the event proceeds will be contributed to the WAAI International Scholarship Program, which provides tuition assistance to qualified students pursuing careers in the automotive industry.
About Maureen LaFontaine
As Dealer Principal of the LaFontaine Automotive Group, Maureen LaFontaine is co-owner of this Michigan family-owned company, in partnership with her husband Michael LaFontaine. While raising a family, Maureen started selling Toyotas on a part time basis, honing her sales skills and learning the many facets of the auto dealer business. She soon became top salesperson of LaFontaine’s first Cadillac Pontiac GMC store in Milford, visiting local businesses to promote the benefits of their dealership.
Maureen further demonstrated her initiative and determination by attending the Harvard Business School in Boston. Her vision led the company to become General Motors’ first L.E.E.D. Certified dealership. Maureen is a dynamo, who ensures the “LaFontaine” name is a strong presence in local communities through sponsorships at business expos, Chambers of Commerce, community and social events. She has led the way in volunteer efforts to benefit a variety of charitable causes and non-profit organizations that promote the health and well being of people nationwide. An active participant in a variety of automotive, business professional and non-profit organizations, Maureen has served as president of the Cadillac Dealers Association and executive board member of the Automotive Women Alliance Foundation.
Thanks to DBusiness Magazine & AskPatty.com for contributing additional details included in this article.
