WASHINGTON, D.C. -

A father-daughter dealer team has been honored by the American International Automobile Dealers Association for their work in auto dealer advocacy.

Honored by AIADA with the Legislative Action Network Grassroots Award were Minnesota duo Morrie Wagener and Cindy Wagener Robin. The award was presented at the association’s seventh annual International Auto Industry Summit, held recently in Washington, D.C.

The award recognizes the advocacy of the father-daughter team in engaging Congress and other policymakers on issues important to the international nameplate auto dealer community.

“Engaging one’s legislators is a pivotal part of being an effective dealer, something this father-daughter team epitomizes,” said AIADA President Cody Lusk.

“The future of America’s international nameplate auto dealer industry rests on the involvement of people like Morrie and Cindy,” Lusk said. “I can think of no one better to receive this award.”

Wagener began his career as a mechanic after graduating from Minnesota’s Dunwoody Institute, and opened his first dealership in 1960, AIADA reported. Today, he operates Morrie’s Automotive Group, encompassing 10 brands and 13 locations.

Wagener Robin serves as the company’s senior vice president.

Together, the two are active in the industry and with their local, state and national legislators, including the Automotive Free International Trade Political Action Committee, Minnesota Automobile Dealers Association, and AIADA.

In the Twin Cities region, both have also donated time and resources via the “Morries Gives Back” initiative, to causes including Perspectives Family Center, Sharing and Caring Hands, and Toys for Tots.

As an alumnus, Wagener has also served on the Dunwoody Institute board of directors for 35 years.

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