News Summary
Cathy Stender, owner of Woody Anderson Ford in Huntsville, has been honored as the 2025 Southeast TIME Dealer of the Year at the National Automobile Dealers Association Show. Her dedication to community service, innovative business practices, and commitment to her late husband’s legacy highlight her outstanding leadership in the automotive industry. Stender’s initiatives support at-risk youth and education, alongside her significant contributions to veterans’ causes, making her a role model for aspiring women leaders in the field.
Huntsville Celebrates Cathy Stender’s National Recognition
In a moment of pride for the city of Huntsville, Cathy Stender, owner and dealer principal of Woody Anderson Ford, has been crowned the 2025 Southeast TIME Dealer of the Year at the prestigious 108th National Automobile Dealers Association Show held in New Orleans. This esteemed award highlights exceptional franchised dealers who go above and beyond not only in their business but in serving their communities as well.
A Legacy Continued
Cathy’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. She took over the reins of Woody Anderson Ford in 2003, after the passing of her husband, Woody Anderson, who was the original founder of the dealership. Initially grappling with doubts about her capability to steer the ship, Stender felt a profound sense of obligation to uphold her husband’s cherished legacy. Her commitment to maintaining and growing the dealership shines through in her deliberate approach and hard work.
Education and Growth
To immerse herself fully in the world of automobile sales, Stender pursued knowledge with vigor, attending the NADA Academy for further education in dealership operations. This determined effort has paid off, as under her guidance, Woody Anderson Ford has prioritized relationships, trust, and making a significant impact in the local community.
Community Engagement and Philanthropy
What sets Stender apart is her heart for service. Before finding her way into the automotive sector, she worked in social work, aiding children and families facing crises. This background fosters a unique perspective at the dealership, where empathy and support for the community are deeply ingrained.
Among her many initiatives, Stender launched HATCH, a program designed to assist at-risk young adults in acquiring essential employment skills. Her commitment extends to honoring veterans through her leadership in fundraising for the Huntsville Madison County Veterans Memorial, where she spearheaded an impressive $7 million drive.
Education Partnerships and Women Empowerment
Cathy’s dedication to education also runs deep. She has forged partnerships with local educational institutions to enhance career tech programs. Through her support of the WEDC Foundation, she provides mentorship and financial assistance to women, paving the way for them to pursue higher education.
A Beacon of Innovation
Woody Anderson Ford is now recognized for its innovation and philanthropic efforts in the region. Cathy has gained notable acclaim for her business strategies, evolving the dealership into one of the top-performing Ford dealerships in the Southeast. The dealership boasts an innovative service lane, a Ford Pro Elite Commercial Center, and advanced infrastructure for electric vehicles, making it a modern and well-equipped facility.
Accolades and Recognition
Cathy Stender’s excellent performance has garnered her multiple accolades from Ford, particularly in areas like customer satisfaction and overall dealership excellence. In 2022, she made history as the first woman inducted into the Ford Dealer Hall of Fame, highlighting her outstanding contribution to the automotive industry.
A Role Model for Future Generations
As a beacon of dedication and community-mindedness, Cathy Stender is celebrated not just for her business acumen but also as a role model for women aspiring to take on leadership roles in the automotive field. Her journey from uncertainty to becoming a national figure in the dealership industry serves as an inspiration to many.
In conclusion, Huntsville is immensely proud to have Cathy Stender leading Woody Anderson Ford. Her commitment to excellence, community service, and the legacy of her husband will surely continue to drive the dealership—and the community—forward into a bright future.
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Additional Resources
- WAAY TV: Cathy Stender Named 2025 Southeast TIME Dealer of the Year
- Google Search: Cathy Stender TIME Dealer of the Year
- Ally: Nomination for Cathy Stender
- Wikipedia: Automotive Industry
- WHNT: Police Investigate Car Dealership Theft
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Automobile
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
