In 2020, the Executive Team created the Founders Award to honor, celebrate, and recognize employees who exemplify the values and qualities admired in the Company’s founders, Jim Kelley and Tom Kelley. Throughout the entire year of 2025, the Executive Team gathered submissions from co-workers and supervisors, nominating individuals who embody the following Founders Award criteria:
- Shows excellent character and integrity;
- Exhibits leadership, whether the role is formalized or not;
- Committed to serving others, both personally and professionally;
- An ambassador for Kelley Automotive on and off the clock;
- Truthful and honest in all his or her dealings;
- Maintains a positive attitude in all situations;
- Committed to “doing the right thing” and
- A model citizen and employee.
The Kelley Automotive Group and the Executive Team would like to formally announce and congratulate the 2025 Founders Award Recipients:
Jeremy Price and Daine Evans
We celebrate the incredible dedication and hard work of two exceptional members of Kelley Automotive. It’s our privilege to recognize the long-standing contributions of Jeremy Price and Daine Evans.
We are proud to recognize Jeremy Price for his exceptional response during a serious workplace incident. When a fellow employee was severely injured because of a fall, Jeremy acted quickly and decisively, ensuring the individual received critical, time-sensitive medical attention. His calm actions and sense of responsibility made a meaningful difference in a critical moment.
Jeremy has been a valued member of the Group since 2023, serving as a Facilities Maintenance Technician who supports all Kelley locations and departments. Jeremy’s direct supervisor, Paul Sparkman, stated “Jeremy is a self-motivated employee and teammate with an enthusiastic attitude and a strong willingness to support others, regardless of the situation.” His dedication, reliability, and willingness to help others are evident not only in emergency situations, but in his everyday contributions across the organization.
Jeremy, we are grateful for your leadership, professionalism, and the care you show toward your colleagues every day!
Daine is recognized for his unwavering willingness to go above and beyond for both the customers and his fellow teammates— 24 hrs./7 days a week and sometimes late into the night to ensure everyone receives the care and support they need. His professionalism, reliability, and positive attitude consistently reflect the very best of Kelley Automotive.
As shared by his supervisor, Cody Perrot: “Daine Evans exemplifies dedication and versatility within our organization. His contributions span roadside assistance, warranty work, shuttle driving, and service porter responsibilities. Beyond these visible roles, Daine consistently takes on critical behind-the-scenes tasks that ensure seamless operations.”
A valued member of the Kelley Automotive team since 2013 as the Roadside Assistant/Warranty Administrator, Daine’s commitment and work ethic make him an invaluable asset and a truly deserving Founders Award recipient.
Thank you, Daine, for all that you do for the Group and our community!
