National Vehicle Leasing Association Celebrates 40th Anniversary at 2008 Annual Conference.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. -- Highlighted by a new format, a six-month lease giveaway and a "green" focus, the National Vehicle Leasing Association (NVLA) held its annual conference June 11-14, 2008 in Phoenix, Ariz. Attendees from all segments of the vehicle leasing industry convened at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort to foster the future of vehicle leasing in North America.

Industry executives from primary bank and credit union funding sources, vehicle industry lessors, manufacturers and suppliers of industry-related goods and services met to network, grow their business and celebrate the NVLA's 40-year history.

The 2008 NVLA Conference was punctuated by a new format and expanded general sessions. Key industry speakers included a kickoff keynote by Mike Pitcher of LeasePlan, a session highlighting the challenges in the economy by Tom Kontos of Adesa Corp, and a look at the future of the industry by Charlie Vogelheim of J.D. Power and Associates.

This year's conference was highlighted by presentations on alternative fuels, hybrid technology and green initiatives, which offered real-world solutions to meet the challenges of higher fuel costs and environmental protection.

Crawford Wins Clemens-Pender Award

Annual awards recognizing outstanding service to the vehicle leasing industry and the NVLA are integral to the NVLA Annual Conference. The highest honor awarded by the NVLA, the Clemens-Pender Lessor of the Year Award, is given to the lessor who best exemplifies the highest standards of professional conduct. This year's honor was bestowed upon Bill Crawford, president of Wilmar Leasing.

Elaine Litwer, CVLE, received the first-ever Lifetime Achievement Award for her distinguished career in the vehicle leasing industry and her continued work and support of the association.

David Funderburk of Standard Finance drew the key that opened a new 2008 Audi Q7 on the show floor. Funderburk won a six-month lease courtesy of Network, a conference sponsor.

Members Elect Board of Directors

The NVLA's Board of Directors was elected by members at the annual meeting. Officers for the 2008/09 term are:

President - Michael Wood, Auto One Lease, Inc

First Vice President - Scott Crawford, CVLE, Wilmar, Inc.

Second Vice President - David Funderburk, Standard Finance, Inc.

Third Vice President - P.J. McMahon, McMahon Automotive Group

Secretary/Treasurer - Andrew Carr, CVLE, Quality Leasing Company, Inc.

Director at Large - Ben Carfrae, CVLE, Ruan Leasing

Director at Large - Scott Anchin, Platinum Mobility Leasing, LLC

Associate Director - Jim Piccoli, Northeast Auto Outlet

NVLA's outgoing President Tarry Shebesta passed the gavel to the newly elected President, Mike Wood. Shebesta's year in office was marked by NVLA's continued growth and viability, Wood noted. Shebesta worked tirelessly to advance the NVLA cause, having made considerable inroads with regard to an NVLA member-specific program with vehicle manufacturers. Shebesta said he will continue to champion this initiative over the next year.

In his inaugural speech, Wood laid out his plans and ideas for the coming year. "We will continue to expand on the progress the NVLA has made over the last number of years," Wood said. "We've had strong leaders and a very cohesive, dedicated board committed to growing the NVLA." Wood noted other areas of attention will include enhancing fleet relationships with auto manufacturers and a continued effort to deliver increased value to NVLA members.

Next year's conference will be held in the "Big Easy," New Orleans.

For more information on the National Vehicle Leasing Association, contact NVLA headquarters at 800.225.NVLA, or [e-mail] or visit the NVLA website at nvla.org.

About the National Vehicle Leasing Association (NVLA)

NVLA provides educational opportunities, promotes responsible legislation and communicates with members regarding developments and trends in vehicle leasing. NVLA promotes the independent leasing industry while encouraging the highest ethical and professional standards.