The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) and the AASA Overseas Automotive Council (OAC) have announced the first recipients of its scholarships in memory of the late Jeremy Denton, AASA vice president and OAC executive director, who passed away Nov. 5, 2013.

This year’s recipients are:

• Audrey Ivie of Ogden, Utah, who is planning to attend Snow College in Ephraim, Utah, to pursue a degree in automotive technology

• Darron Newson of Calera, Alabama, a former member of the U.S. Marine Corps, who is pursuing his degree as a technician at Lawson State Community College, Birmingham, Alabama

The OAC Board of Directors initiated the memorial fund through the University of the Aftermarket Foundation in November 2014. Each year, $1,000 annual scholarships will be presented to one male and one female student pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket industry.

“We are pleased to assist these outstanding students as they pursue their education and their aftermarket careers,” said Bill Long, AASA president and chief operating officer. “The scholarships are an investment in our industry and a lasting tribute to Jeremy’s passion for the aftermarket and his boundless enthusiasm for its future.”

Denton joined MEMA in 2005 as director, programs and member services, and OAC executive director. In addition, he directed the activities of the Filter Manufacturers Council (FMC) and the Brake Manufacturers Council (BMC), and also served as staff executive of the AASA China Aftermarket Forum (CAF). In 2010, Denton was promoted to AASA vice president, programs and member services. His responsibilities included membership recruitment and retention, event planning, sponsorships and affiliate development, in addition to his continuing roles with the OAC, FMC, BMC and CAF. He died in 2013 at age 36 after a valiant, two-year battle with cancer.

Donations can be made to the scholarship fund by sending checks payable to:

The Jeremy Denton Memorial Scholarship Fund

c/o Susan Medick

The Auto Care Association, 7101 Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 1300

Bethesda, MD 20814