Northwood University Announces General Chair & Vice Chairs of 2013 Auto Show

The Automotive Marketing department at Northwood University announces the selection of Adam LaFurgey as general chair of the 50th Annual Northwood University International Auto Show (NUIAS). With the importance of the upcoming show, the decision was made to implement two vice chairpersons to oversee the executive board. Justin Edgar was selected as vice chair of divisionals while Chelsea Shartle was selected as vice chair of operations. Northwood University will host the 2013 NUIAS on its scenic campus located at 4000 Whiting Drive in Midland on September 27, 28 and 29. This year’s theme is “Cruising Through the Golden Anniversary.”

Senior Adam LaFurgey, son of Joe and Renee LaFurgey of Grand Rapids, Mich., is in his fourth year of involvement with NUIAS. He previously served as a member of team Lincoln/Mercury, captain of team Lincoln and on the executive board as logistics chairperson. LaFurgey is a graduate of Forest Hills Central High School pursuing a dual major in Automotive Marketing and Finance. He is actively involved in The Automotive Group (TAG), the Finance Association of Northwood University (FANU) and DECA. Upon graduation, LaFurgey hopes to work in the automotive industry and become an entrepreneur.

Senior Chelsea Shartle is the daughter of Wes and Kathy Shartle of Adrian, Mich. She has been involved with the Auto Show for the past three years as a member of team Mitsubishi and then on the executive board first as chief financial officer/co-fundraising chair and the following year as chief financial officer/VIP panel chairperson. Shartle is a graduate of Tecumseh High School and is now studying Management and Marketing. Shartle is involved in a variety of student organizations where she also holds leadership positions, including president of the Student Government Association (SGA) and treasurer of Business Professionals of America (BPA). After graduation, she plans to pursue an occupation where she is passionate about her career.

Senior Justin Edgar is the son of Jeff and Julie Edgar of Rochester Hills, Mich. He brings three years of experience to the vice chair position serving previously as a member and captain of team Chevrolet and this past year as NUIAS European chairperson. Edgar is a graduate of Notre Dame Preparatory High School where he played golf. At Northwood, he is involved in campus life as a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity and currently serves as president of TAG while he pursues his major in Automotive Marketing and Management. After his graduation in May 2014, Edgar hopes to open multiple dealerships as president and operator.

The Vice Chair positions are chosen by the General Chair through an interview process which, according to LaFurgey, produced precisely the kind of managers he sought. He stated, “Both Shartle and Edgar possess a great deal of leadership experience, especially with the Auto Show, are hard-working and have a lot of passion for this event. I knew both would be excellent choices and they have proven to be invaluable assets both to the executive board and the overall show.”

With team captains and co-captains selected, teams are filling up quickly as students anticipate the fast approaching show this fall. Students are excited to implement interactive and informative displays that will contain over 500 new domestic and imported cars, trucks, recreational vehicles, experimental, concept and specialty vehicles in addition to an extensive aftermarket exhibit.

According to LaFurgey every Auto Show is a special event but with this year’s being the 50th, he and his team are especially ambitious about leaving a lasting impression. “As this is a milestone for the show, I want to make sure it is truly special. My goals include increasing attendance and working to make eye-catching and innovative displays to improve the quality of the event. When the weekend closes, this Auto Show will be one to remember,” he commented.

For more information call 989-837-4423 and for an updated list of activities contact 989.837.4823 or visit the Auto Show website at http://www.northwood.edu/autoshow/.

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