LAS VEGAS — The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) presented Billy Threadgill with its President’s Ring and officially opened his term as president during last week's NIADA Convention and Expo.

In his address at the banquet, Threadgill told attendees that he is focused on making sure dealers understand the value of NIADA membership.

"I often get asked about the value of joining the NIADA and the state IADAs (Independent Automobile Dealers Association). I give them the facts — once they are a member, the benefits are endless,” Threadgill said. "For example, the NIADA Convention. It doesn't matter if you are a traditional used-car dealer, a buy-here, pay-here dealer, a lease-here, pay-here dealer dealer, in the rental business or a wholesaler, the education from this conference can only make you want to be a better and more successful dealer."

Threadgill is a second-generation dealer who serves as president of Van’s Auto Sales in Florence, S.C., the dealership his father first opened in 1975. He also runs a related finance company, a U-save auto rental franchise and a subsidized transit company.

Threadgill has been on the NIADA executive committee since 2009, according to NIADA. He has served as secretary, treasurer, regional vice president, senior vice president and president-elect. He also served as president of the Carolinas IADA and as chairman of the NIADA State Presidents Council.