The Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) is accepting nominations for its 2026 James B. Summers (JBS) Award, the organization’s highest honor, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to RVDA and its members.
The award recipient will be announced at the RV Dealers Convention/Expo, scheduled for November 9-13 at Paris Las Vegas.
“As RVDA’s highest honor, the JBS award recognizes an individual who has made frequent and distinguished contributions to RVDA and its members,” Phil Ingrassia, president of RVDA, said in a press release.
Eligible nominees must have provided at least five years of service to the association. Nominations require a written narrative detailing the individual’s contributions and presenting a compelling case for their selection.
The award honors the late Jim Summers, RVDA’s former executive vice president and chief executive officer, who worked on behalf of dealers throughout his career and into retirement. Summers was the first recipient of the award in 1986.
Past honorees can be reviewed through the RVDA website, and nominations must be submitted online. The award continues to recognize leadership, dedication, and service within the RV dealership community.
The announcement coincides with the organization’s annual convention and expo, which gathers dealers, manufacturers, suppliers, and industry partners. The event features a comprehensive educational program covering dealership operations, sales, service, marketing, finance, and management.
A dedicated RV Rental Track, developed by MBA Insurance, is designed to help attendees maximize rental returns on their fleets. Networking opportunities are extensive, providing access to peers, potential business partners, and industry professionals.
The Expo Hall will showcase the latest RV products, technologies, and services from leading manufacturers and suppliers. Attendees will also gain insights into current industry trends, challenges, and opportunities through presentations and panel discussions.
Additional offerings include Vendor Training +Plus workshops, led by industry experts, providing practical knowledge on new products, services, and operational strategies to enhance dealership performance.
The JBS Award nomination process and the convention highlight RVDA’s ongoing commitment to supporting professional development and recognizing distinguished service within the RV industry.