Tom Hudson Honored with the Inaugural Jack Tracey Pinnacle Award

Member News,


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tom Hudson Honored with the Inaugural Jack Tracey Pinnacle Award

Tallahassee, May 23, 2023 - The National Automotive Finance Association is pleased to announce that Tom Hudson has been named the inaugural recipient of the Jack Tracey Pinnacle Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the non-prime auto finance industry. Named for one of the NAF Association’s founders and its first executive director, Jack Tracey, this award symbolizes excellence, leadership, and dedication to the industry. The NAF Association has announced that Jack's enduring legacy as a visionary founder, influential leader, and passionate advocate for the non-prime automotive lending industry will forever be cherished and celebrated through the Jack Tracey Pinnacle Award.

The 2023 Jack Tracey Pinnacle Award is sponsored by RepoSystems and is presented to a professional at a member organization who has demonstrated enduring service and exceptional commitment to the non-prime auto finance sector. Nominees are evaluated based on their substantial record of service to a NAF Association member company, which goes beyond their regular employment duties and has positively impacted the industry as a whole.

“On behalf of the NAF Association's Board of Directors, we are honored to recognize Tom Hudson as the first Jack Tracey Pinnacle Award recipient. Tom is a positive and powerful force within the association, and the impact of his work and passion extend across the entire industry. This year's award carries extra special sentiment given the special friendship between Tom and Jack, and we couldn't be more delighted with the NAF Association's Award Committee selection," said Jennifer Martin, Executive Director of NAF. 

Tom, a founding partner of Hudson Cook, LLP, has been practicing consumer financial services law since 1973, specifically focusing on vehicle sales, financing, and leasing matters. He is a renowned expert in the field and has held notable positions such as CEO of CounselorLibrary.com, LLC, and Senior Editor of CARLAW®, a monthly subscription service reporting legal developments in the auto sales, finance, and lease businesses.

Throughout his career, Tom has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise. In 2017, Tom was named to the National Independent Automobile Dealers Association Ring of Honor.  He has been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America© in the practice area of Financial Services Regulation Law and was named the Best Lawyers© 2015 Baltimore Financial Services Regulation Law "Lawyer of the Year." In 2009, he was presented with the Senator William Proxmire Lifetime Achievement Award by the American College of Consumer Financial Services Lawyers. Additionally in 2009, he was the recipient of the American Financial Services Association Distinguished Service Award. 

As the longstanding outside general counsel to the NAF, Tom provided invaluable guidance to the Association.  He also represented numerous auto finance companies, banks, finance companies, and trade associations. He authored several books, including CARLAW® and The F&I Legal Desk Book, considered authoritative resources in the industry.

Tom has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the non-prime auto finance industry throughout his career. He is highly respected for his vast knowledge, dedication, and tireless efforts to educate and guide professionals in the field.

The award will be presented to Tom at the June 2023 Non-Prime Auto Financing Conference. This recognition is a testament to his outstanding contributions and unwavering commitment to the non-prime auto finance industry.

 

About the NAF Association:

The National Automotive Finance Association is a leading trade association serving professionals in the non-prime auto finance industry. The association promotes education, professional development, and industry collaboration to support the growth and success of its members. With a commitment to fostering innovation and best practices, the NAF Association plays a vital role in shaping the future of non-prime auto finance.

 

About Hudson Cook:

Established in 1997, Hudson Cook, LLP focuses on state and federal consumer and commercial financial services, banking and privacy compliance, regulation, enforcement, and supervision. From our offices around the country, we leverage the knowledge of our attorneys, who understand the complex and interrelated laws and regulations applicable to the consumer and commercial financial services and banking industries.