#USA #Atlanta #Cox Automotive #Rita Case #Barbara Cox

Rita Case Receives the 2026 Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award

Cox Automotive proudly announced that Rita Case, president and CEO of the Rick Case Automotive Group, is the recipient of the prestigious 2026 Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award. The award, bestowed annually, celebrates exceptional women in the automotive industry who demonstrate outstanding leadership, community engagement, and philanthropic initiatives.

The recognition was made official by Steve Rowley, president of Cox Automotive, during the North American International Auto Show in Las Vegas. In his speech, Rowley highlighted Case's significant contributions and impact on both the automotive sector and her community.

Rita's Leadership Journey in Automotive

Rita Case has made remarkable strides in the automotive industry, leading the nation's largest female-owned dealership group. Her business, the Rick Case Automotive Group, operates 12 dealerships across South Florida and Atlanta, generating more than $2 billion in annual sales. This impressive achievement reinforces her position as a top leader in a traditionally male-dominated industry.

The Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award includes a $10,000 donation to a charity of the winner's choice, as well as a $10,000 Barbara Cox Memorial Scholarship aimed at supporting students from Northwood University. Case has chosen to allocate the charitable donation to the Rita and Rick Case Vocational Scholarship Fund at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. The recipient of this year’s scholarship is Breanne Pratley, an ambitious senior in the Automotive Marketing and Management program, highlighted for her exceptional academic and extracurricular contributions.

Community Engagement and Philanthropic Impact

Beyond commercial success, Rita Case's commitment to community service is noteworthy. Through the Rick Case Automotive Group, she has spearheaded initiatives raising over $125 million for various organizations in South Florida that focus on youth development, education, housing, and health. One of her signature initiatives is the long-standing program, "Rick Case Bikes for Kids," which has gifted more than 122,000 bicycles to underserved children since its inception in 1982.

In addressing the audience upon receiving her award, Case expressed her gratitude: "I am incredibly honored to be recognized as the Barbara Cox Woman of the Year. I would like to extend my congratulations to Breanne, who represents the future generation of women leaders in the automotive industry. I am thankful to Cox Automotive for their support, as we strive to enrich our local communities, an endeavor instilled in both Rick and me throughout our careers. Our customers make this possible, and we are proud to give back."

Celebrating Women's Leadership

Steve Rowley echoed the sentiment, stating, "The Barbara Cox Woman of the Year Award highlights remarkable female pioneers who exemplify transformative leadership and outstanding philanthropic aspirations within our industry. We are proud to honor Rita Case, recognizing her exceptional accomplishments and her enduring influence in the automotive field."

Rita's journey from a childhood immersed in the automotive world—where she helped her parents run the first-ever Honda dealership in the United States—to establishing a successful business alongside her husband Rick showcases her dedication and resilience. Their partnership has not only catalyzed the growth of the Rick Case Automotive Group but has also served as an inspiration to emerging leaders in the automotive landscape.

As we celebrate Rita's recognition, it is a reminder of the ongoing need for female representation in all aspects of leadership within the automotive industry. The commitment shown by leaders like Case is crucial in paving the way for future generations, ensuring that women’s voices are heard and valued in this evolving field.