Michael C. Buzzard, 20-year veteran of the automotive aftermarket industry, brings his wide range of executive leadership experience to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) Scholarship Committee as its new chair.

He will lead the not-for-profit program that has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to students enrolled in four-year and two-year colleges as well as ASE/NATEF certified automotive, collision and heavy duty post-secondary schools.

Currently a partner with Schwartz Advisors, Buzzard has held leadership roles in marketing, sales management, corporate development, and general management during his time with Auto Plus Auto Parts.

Prior to his career at Auto Plus, he was an internal consulting services analyst at JP Morgan. 

Buzzard also served on the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) Board of Governors from 2019 to 2022.

He was recognized for his significant contributions in the motor vehicle aftermarket, receiving the Impact Award from the Auto Care Association presented to professionals, age 40 or younger.

“I am truly thrilled to serve as chair of the UAF scholarship committee, working with Pete Kornafel, the scholarship team and the dozens of dedicated volunteers whose direction and guidance in reviewing and awarding scholarships is the driving force that ensures that talented young people interested in our industry have the opportunity to join us,” said Buzzard, AAP.

“On behalf of the UAF, we are very pleased to welcome Mike as the new leader of the UAF Scholarship Committee. As a trustee of the foundation, he understands first-hand its mission and value as well as the critical role and responsibilities of the scholarship committee,” said Bob Egan, MAAP, chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation.

“Mike’s personal familiarity with the program and his extensive and diverse aftermarket experience make him the ideal fit as the new chair.”

Buzzard earned a BBA degree from Loyola University Maryland and an MBA degree, with honoUrs, from SUNY at Buffalo. He currently lives in Dallas, Texas with his family.

The deadline to apply for scholarships for the 2023-2024 academic year is March 31. To learn more, visit www.AutomotiveScholarships.com or www.HeavyDutyScholarships.com.

For more information about the the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, visit UofA-Foundation.org.

About the University of the Aftermarket Foundation

Since 1986, the University of the Aftermarket Foundation has funded millions of dollars of scholarships, grants and educational programs to help develop a strong, knowledgeable aftermarket work force

The foundation encourages industry support, including donations for the purpose of honoring or memorializing individuals or otherwise recognizing special events, to help ensure the continued availability of education and training that strengthen the industry.

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization, and all contributions are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. For more information, visit www.UofA-Foundation.org.