WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) has elected Edward Tonkin as chairman for 2010. Tonkin is vice president and general counsel of Ron Tonkin Dealerships in Portland, Ore.

"It's humbling to be elected by your peers to such an important position," says Tonkin. "It's an honor."

Tonkin, who earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Washington, says his knowledge of the law will help lead the association through a myriad of legislative and regulatory challenges in 2010. Tonkin will be the second NADA chairman in as many years to follow his father in the position. Ron Tonkin led the association in 1989.

"I've always liked to be a part of shaping things," Tonkin says. "I like the idea of being part of the solution, not part of the problem."

The NADA board of directors also elected Stephen Wade as 2010 vice chairman. Wade is president of Stephen Wade Auto Center in St. George, Utah.

The election was held last week at NADA's legislative conference in Washington, D.C. Tonkin and Wade will officially take office at NADA's Convention & Exposition in Orlando, Feb. 13-15.