Chicago Auto Show organizers, in partnership with A Girls Guide to Cars, held the ninth annual What Drives Her program during the show’s Media Preview on Friday, Feb. 6. Industry leaders from across the country came together for a robust discussion and award recognition ceremony to highlight women in four different categories: Industry Trailblazer, Best in Craft Media, Automotive Ally and Best Retailer. The program gives industry leaders a stage to share trends, stories and personal anecdotes of the integral role that women hold in the auto industry. 

Best Retailer 2026 Winner: Alyssa Farkas, assistant general manager, Arnie Bauer Buick GMC Cadillac

The Best Retailer award recognizes a female employed by a Chicago-area dealership that demonstrates a high level of commitment and drive to any task at hand, whether that's in sales, service or technical support.

Farkas received a standout nomination recognizing her significant impact at Arnie Bauer Buick GMC Cadillac since 2011. She advanced from BDC manager to sales manager before being promoted to assistant general manager in 2023. In 2025, Farkas led an initiative through the ComEd EV program that helped the dealership finish as the nation’s top GMC EV dealer.

Best Retailer finalists included: Kelly Kane, marketing and social media manager, Brilliance Subaru, and Jennifer Pascoe, service advisor, Jerry Haggerty Chevrolet.