BEATRICE, Neb. — A southeast Nebraska car dealer is among the finalists for a national award.

Jason Zoellner of Zoellner Ford of Beatrice is one of 47 nominees for TIME Dealer of the Year who will be honored at the 109th annual National Automobile Dealers Association Show in Las Vegas in February. The TIME Dealer of the Year award recognizes the nation’s most successful auto dealers who also demonstrate a long-standing commitment to community service. 

According to a news release, the Nebraska New Car and Truck Dealer Association chose Zoellner as a nominee. 20,000 dealers nationwide are eligible for the award.

“The TIME Dealer of the Year award honors automotive dealers who set the standard for excellence and community impact,” said Jessica Sibley, CEO of TIME. “Each year, we spotlight those whose dedication uplifts and inspires their communities.” 

Zoellner partnered on his first Ford franchise in 2003 in Ogallala. He acquired Zoellner Ford of Beatrice in May 2020, at the height of the pandemic.

“Any store buyout is intense; doing it during a global shutdown took perseverance,” he said. “We focused on clarity, culture, and communication—and built trust that might’ve otherwise taken years.”

The release says Zoellner has made upgrades to the dealership including added six service stalls, a drive-through car wash, a full detail shop, EV chargers, new hoists and equipment, refreshed restrooms and furniture, and paved lot upgrades to replace gravel. Zoellner’s community efforts with Meals on Wheels and the Beatrice Backpack Program also aided in his nomination.

In its 15th year as exclusive sponsor, Ally also will recognize dealer nominees and their community efforts by contributing $1,000 to each nominee’s 501(c)3 charity of choice. Nominees will be recognized on AllyDealerHeroes.com, which highlights the philanthropic contributions and achievements of TIME Dealer of the Year nominees.