Last week at the 2024 RV Dealers Association Convention & Expo in Las Vegas, Gib’s RV Superstore celebrated a monumental achievement as Marketing Manager Heather Isaac was named the recipient of the highly coveted 2024 Duane Spader Leadership Scholarship. This prestigious award recognizes individuals in the RV industry who demonstrate exceptional potential for leadership, innovation, and industry impact. Valued at nearly $15,000, the scholarship funds participation in Spader’s Leadership Development Program, a comprehensive course designed to cultivate top-tier leaders.
The scholarship was awarded during the 40 Under 40 Dinner at the RVDA Convention, where Heather received the honor from Mark Spader of Spader/NCM Associates and RVDA President Phil Ingrassia. Heather, who was completely surprised by the announcement, shared her gratitude for this incredible opportunity.
“It’s an honor to be recognized with this scholarship and to have the chance to learn from the best in the business through Spader’s Leadership Development Program. I’m thrilled to bring back the tools and insights I’ll gain to strengthen our dealership and contribute to the RV industry’s future,” Heather said.
Heather, a third-generation leader in the RV industry, has over 20 years of experience, including the last 10 years as the Marketing Manager at Gib’s RV Superstore. As the dealership’s Visionary, she focuses on innovation, team development, and strategic growth. In her scholarship application essay, Heather shared her passion for the RV industry, her commitment to helping family-owned dealerships thrive in an evolving landscape, and her determination to grow into a more effective leader.
Heather also expressed heartfelt thanks to those who supported her scholarship application by writing letters of recommendation: Patty Hains of Interact RV, Rick Breeden of Forest River Salem, PJ Buerger of Princess Craft RV, and Joanne Reynolds of Motility Software Solutions. “Their kind words and belief in my potential were instrumental in helping me achieve this milestone. I’m deeply grateful for their support,” Heather said.
The Duane Spader Leadership Development Program is known for producing some of the RV industry’s most accomplished leaders. The 12- to 18-month course emphasizes leadership, team building, and strategic planning—skills that align with Heather’s goal of driving Gib’s RV toward continued success while maintaining its family-owned values.
This award marks another highlight for Gib’s RV Superstore during the RVDA Convention & Expo. The dealership also received its sixth RVBusiness Top 50 Dealer Award, further showcasing its commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and community engagement. (Read more about our Top 50 Dealer Award here.)
Congratulations to Heather Isaac on this well-deserved recognition and her continued journey of growth and leadership. We are confident this opportunity will inspire innovation and success at Gib’s RV for years to come!