Pub. 60 2019-2020 Issue 3

6 “Working for the Texas Automobile Dealers Association is a dream come true for me. I came to Austin in 1988 and started working at the Texas Capitol soon thereafter, and literally everyone there knew about TADA. TADA has achieved a lot in its past, but the focus now must be on ensuring continued success today and into the future. One of the biggest assets an association has is the relationships of its members with their elected officials. TADA is blessed to have many dealers that are involved in state and federal advocacy, and all of our dealers actively give back to their local communities. These are great strengths…but as an association, we must remain constantly vigilant and engaged to safeguard a strong future for Texas dealers. I’ve enjoyed getting to know and work with the fantastic team here at TADA and am looking forward to meeting each one of you as we continue this ongoing journey together.” D arren served as the Vice President of Advocacy for the Texas Medical Association for nearly 16 years. Prior to TMA, he worked at the Texas Hospital Association serving as the Vice President of Government Relations. Before this, he worked at numerous positions in the Texas Capitol on issues including health policy, state finances, public education, transportation, and taxes. His career has involved working with both Republican and Democratic members, including Senator Chris Harris, Lt. Governor Bob Bullock, Representative Steve Wolens, and Representative David Cain. Darren earned an undergraduate degree in Accounting from Baylor University in 1987. He then attended the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas and received a Masters of Public Affairs in 1990. Finally, he attended Trinity University and graduated with a Masters of Science in Healthcare Administration in 1994. Darren is proudest of his family and is blessed to have shared the last 30 years with his wife Lissa. They have two children—their son, Will, is a 2nd year law student at the University of Oklahoma and their daughter, Julieanne, will be starting her graduate studies in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Houston in the fall.  A Message from TADA President Darren Whitehurst