A Michigan senior studying automotive aftermarket marketing and management is the recipient of the 2025 Northwood University International Auto Show Aftermarket Chair Scholarship.
Sponsored by Dorman Products, the award is presented to a full-time junior or senior with high moral and ethical standards, and ambitions to work in the automotive aftermarket industry. Also, the winner must serve as the Aftermarket Chair of the Northwood University International Auto Show, an annual student-run event that encompasses the automotive retail and aftermarket sectors. The event is free for all, thanks to industry and alumni support.
This year, Edward “Eddie” MacNellis will serve as the Aftermarket Chair of the 62nd Northwood University International Auto Show, Sep. 19-21, 2025, at Northwood University in Midland, Michigan.
“Eddie exemplifies the determination and passion that are harnessed by this dynamic industry,” stated Dr. Thomas Litzinger, executive director of the University of the Aftermarket and aftermarket education industry chair at Northwood University. “The time and effort he has invested into earning this scholarship is a testament to his ambition and potential, and we will look forward to what he will contribute to this fall’s auto show and in the field following his graduation from Northwood University.”
In addition to the Northwood University International Auto Show, MacNellis has been involved with the Northwood University Aftermarket Club. Additionally, he has served as a student presenter for numerous Northwood University signature events, including the Outstanding Business Leaders Awards, Dealer Education Awards, and Automotive Aftermarket Education Awards.
Over the summer, MacNellis expanded his knowledge through a hands-on view of the aftermarket world when he interned with Hendrick Auto Group ADI.
“From a family of small business owners, I understand the drive to do great,” said MacNellis, a senior from Midland, Michigan, who is on pace to graduate following the Fall 2025 term. “Cars are my passion, and I get to turn that passion into a career through Northwood’s Automotive Aftermarket Management program. With the Dorman Products scholarship, I can take my education to a whole new level. Thank you, Dorman Products, for the opportunity to further my education, and for being such a strong Northwood supporter.”
“Dorman Products is honored to sponsor this year’s Northwood University International Auto Show Aftermarket Chair Scholarship,” stated Scott Leff, senior vice president and chief human resources officer. “We are dedicated to fostering the growth of future automotive leaders and innovators. By partnering with Northwood University, we are investing in the future of the industry and nurturing the talent that will propel its continued success.”
A manufacturer of aftermarket automotive products, Dorman Products has led the way in growing the aftermarket. Its catalog includes more than 118,000 products and grows every year.
“Dorman’s sponsorship of this generous scholarship reflects their commitment to being involved in aftermarket education and driving the future of the automotive aftermarket industry,” stated Dr. Matthew Bennett, vice president of enrollment, strategic alliances, and the Center for Automotive & Mobility Studies (CAMS) at Northwood University.
