Malachi Pineda, Midtown Love Encore Delivery Specialist

Malachi, a Love Encore Delivery Specialist with Mark Miller Subaru, is an outstanding nominee for the Shining Star Award, exemplifying what it means to deliver truly exceptional care, compassion, and service - providing one guest a uniquely Subary experience.

Following a difficult accident that totaled a new 2025 Crosstrek with only 8,000 miles, an older gentleman arrived facing overwhelming uncertainty. With limited English proficiency, no access to a computer, and little familiarity with navigating complex processes, the situation was especially challenging. What could have been a stressful and discouraging experience instead became a powerful example of what genuine support looks like—thanks to Malachi.

Over the course of more than four hours, Malachi remained fully committed to helping the guest navigate every detail of the situation. He personally drove the guest to the tow yard to retrieve a driver’s license left in the totaled vehicle and worked directly with the staff there to determine how to release the car. He then took the guest to their credit union to secure a cashier’s check before continuing on to the collision center to assist in obtaining an estimate, including helping take photos of the damage.

Understanding the financial impact of the situation, Malachi went even further—contacting multiple scrap yards to find the best possible offer for the vehicle. He organized the information clearly, helping the guest choose the best option, and assisted in coordinating the necessary documentation and arranging for the vehicle to be towed. He even ensured required forms were completed, notarized, and accessible by helping download and set up the appropriate app on the guest’s phone.

Before the guest left in their new vehicle, Malachi thoughtfully typed and printed step-by-step instructions outlining exactly what needed to happen the following day to finalize everything. This attention to detail ensured the guest could move forward with confidence, despite the barriers they faced.

The impact of Malachi’s efforts was deeply felt. Overcome with emotion, the guest expressed profound gratitude, nearly brought to tears, sharing that this level of care is exactly why they return—because of the people who go above and beyond to help in moments that matter most.

Malachi’s dedication, initiative, and unwavering compassion transformed a complex and stressful situation into one defined by trust, relief, and genuine human connection. His actions embody the very spirit of the Shining Star Award and serve as a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make.

Nate Lindquist, Marketing Director

Nate Lindquist is a remarkable nominee for the Shining Star Award, demonstrating what it truly means to lead with compassion, awareness, and a deep commitment to community.

During a time when many individuals and families were quietly facing financial uncertainty and disruptions to essential resources due to federal shutdown, Nate recognized an opportunity to make a meaningful difference. Rather than looking outward, he looked inward—reworking his own monthly budget to create a simple but powerful solution: providing boxed lunches, no questions asked, to anyone in need.

What followed was more than just a meal program—it became a lifeline.

One local mother, Andrea, shared that during an especially difficult time, when putting food on the table required constant juggling, she discovered that Mark Miller Subaru was offering free, ready-to-eat meals. Initially hesitant, unsure of what to expect, she arrived with her children and was met with nothing but kindness. Each of them was given a thoughtfully prepared lunch—no pressure, no judgment, just genuine care. That single act lifted a weight she had been carrying, replacing stress with relief and, more importantly, hope. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about being seen, valued, and supported when it mattered most.

Another community member, Will, arrived regularly using his powered mobility device after many of the services he relied on were reduced. Each visit, he was warmly welcomed by the team, offered a meal, and treated with dignity and enthusiasm. The consistent kindness left such an impression that he later expressed deep gratitude, sharing that the sincerity and positive energy he experienced nearly brought him to tears.

These are not isolated moments—they are the direct result of Nate’s vision and willingness to act. By removing barriers and offering support without expectation, Nate helped create a space where people could simply receive care, no explanation required.

Nate’s leadership reminds us that impact doesn’t always come from grand gestures, but from thoughtful, intentional actions that meet people where they are. His decision to prioritize others during a time of need created ripple effects of kindness, dignity, and connection throughout the community.

For embodying the true spirit of the Subaru Love Promise, Nate Lindquist is exceptionally deserving of the Shining Star Award.  

Dustin Patchett, South Towne Service Assistant Manager

Dustin Patchett is a standout nominee for the Shining Star Award, exemplifying what it means to create meaningful, memorable experiences for our guests.

During a recent visit, a young boy arrived excited to watch his vehicle’s oil change, only to learn he wouldn't get to see the process from the waiting room. Naturally disappointed, the moment could have easily passed as just another routine interaction. Instead, Dustin saw an opportunity to make a lasting impact.

With care and intention, Dustin safely stepped outside of standard protocol to create a truly special experience. Taking the time to guide the young guest on a behind-the-scenes tour of the express service area, he demonstrated how vehicles are lifted and even brought him down into the pit to see the underside of the car and the oil being drained. Throughout the experience, Dustin’s warm, approachable nature shone brightly. Despite his towering presence (standing at 6'7"), he is every bit the gentle giant—engaging the child with genuine enthusiasm, kindness, and a shared sense of wonder. Both Dustin and the young guest wore smiles that spoke volumes.

The impact extended beyond the child. His mother expressed overwhelming appreciation and joy, touched by the effort Dustin made to turn a moment of disappointment into one of excitement and connection. In a lighthearted and heartfelt gesture, Dustin even told the boy, who had started kindergarten a few months earlier, that a place on the team would be waiting for him once he finished school—an invitation that left a lasting impression.

This experience is a powerful example of going above and beyond, demonstrating that even small moments can create lifelong memories. Dustin’s actions reflect not only exceptional customer care but also a deep sense of empathy, creativity, and pride in what he does.

For embodying the spirit of service, connection, and genuine human kindness, Dustin Patchett is truly deserving of the Shining Star Award.

Pat McNulty, Product Specialist

Pat is a deserving nominee for the Shining Star Award, demonstrating exceptional care, empathy, and humanity during one of the most challenging moments a family can face.

Following a stressful service visit involving tire concerns and a larger mechanical issue with a 2020 Outback, Pat stepped in to assist Diane Pearl and her son, Matt, as they navigated next steps. What made this situation especially complex was everything happening beyond the vehicle—Diane’s husband was in the ICU following open heart surgery, while her daughter required urgent medical attention, leaving Diane balancing multiple hospital visits and overwhelming decisions.

Understanding the urgency and emotional weight of the situation, Pat approached the interaction with patience, compassion, and flexibility. With the family stretched thin and unable to return a loaner vehicle as planned, Pat ensured that transportation was never an added stress. He worked quickly to help Diane explore safe, reliable options for Matt, recognizing that dependable transportation was critical for a family constantly traveling between hospitals and appointments.

Pat took the time to listen, guide, and simplify what is often a complicated and intimidating process—especially for someone already under immense pressure. Diane shared, with humor that perfectly captures the typical car-buying experience, that she would “rather have a root canal while delivering triplets than buy a car.” And yet, this experience was entirely different. Instead of stress, she found understanding. Instead of pressure, she found support.

Through every step, Pat created an environment where the family felt cared for, respected, and genuinely helped. His ability to meet them where they were, both logistically and emotionally, turned what could have been an overwhelming experience into one defined by trust and relief.

In the midst of hospital visits, uncertainty, and emotional strain, Pat became a steady, reassuring presence—helping ensure that one important piece of their lives was taken care of. His actions reflect the very best of what it means to serve others.

For his compassion, attentiveness, and commitment to doing what is right for the customer, Pat truly embodies the spirit of the Shining Star Award. 

Beth Kunz, South Towne Trade-Up Specialist

While Beth Kunz’s title may be Trade-Up Specialist, to those who work with and around her, she is so much more. Beth embodies compassion, kindness, and an uncanny ability to anticipate needs before they’re even spoken. Positioned in our service waiting area, she interacts with a constant stream of customers, employees, and service providers—none of whom leave immune to her warmth and generosity.

Beth doesn’t just see problems; she finds solutions. On a recent Saturday, a frustrated customer arrived for an oil change on their older model vehicle, only to learn that the necessary filter was unavailable, requiring him to reschedule. Rather than letting the situation end in disappointment, Beth sprang into action. She researched the part, coordinated a plan, and even volunteered to cover the lot tech’s duties while he retrieved the filter from a neighboring dealership. Thanks to her quick thinking and willingness to step up, what could have been a negative experience became a shining example of true customer care.

Her thoughtfulness extends far beyond transactions. When Beth learned that a customer had to abruptly leave mid-purchase due to a family medical emergency, she didn’t just offer words of sympathy—she took action. Drawing on her past experience as a florist, she personally arranged a vase of flowers and had them sent to the family, offering comfort during a difficult time.

Beth’s kindness isn’t reserved just for customers. She has a way of making everyone feel valued. Whether it’s circulating a card for an employee grieving the loss of a pet, celebrating an upcoming baby, or simply brightening someone’s day with their favorite snack, Beth is constantly tuned in to the well-being of those around her. She doesn’t wait for recognition—she acts out of genuine care.

Beth’s big hearted approach to life and interactions with others made her an obvious choice for serving as a Love Promise Champion at Mark Miller Subaru Southtowne.  Beth’s selflessness, empathy, and unwavering commitment to others make her an undeniable Subaru Shining Star. She doesn’t just enhance the workplace—she makes it uniquely Subaru.

Coleman Holley, South Towne Express Technician

The Mark Miller Subaru is excited to share a touching story that perfectly embodies the spirit of the Subaru Love Promise! Holly, a mother and Subaru owner in Ohio, reached out to us with a heartwarming tale about her son, Leo, and a true Good Samaritan from our team.  Leo is new to Utah and a student at the University of Utah; he found himself stranded with a flat tire near the Maverick in Holiday, Utah. Despite having AAA, he was saved by a young man who went above and beyond to help him. Holly sent us a screenshot of her conversation with Leo, including a picture of the helper from behind as he changed the tire.  We discovered that this amazing individual is none other than Coleman Holley, an Express Lube Technician at Mark Miller South Towne in Sandy, Utah.  Holly’s message warmed our hearts:  "My son was saved by a nice young man from your dealership who stopped to change the tire on my son's Crosstrek. Sure, he could have managed and he does have AAA, but I'm so thankful this young man stopped and helped him. We need more Good Samaritans! I love that your organization honors these principles! I am confident that Coleman's parents must be proud, too! Good job, Coleman! We have two more Subarus (in Ohio) and have seen the kindness of Subaru workers more than once." Coleman didn't just change the tire; he also coached Leo on driving safely on the spare, encouraging him to not go over 40mph and to avoid the freeways. Leo visited Mark Miller Subaru South Towne the next day and was in and out quickly with his tire repaired under warranty.  

Employees of Mark Miller Subaru commit to living seven Core Values including — “Care for People, Pets, and the Planet,” and “Treat Everyone Like Family” — both of which are at the heart of stories like this. After hours but still in his work uniform, it’s clear that Coleman lives these Core Values inside and outside of work!  Coleman’s kindness and generosity truly make him a Subaru Shining Star. As is evident by the mother’s comments, these experiences, whether a college student in Utah or a mother in Ohio, are uniquely and consistently Subaru.  

Thank you, Coleman, for living the Subaru Love Promise in and out of work - completely unaware of the impact you had on a mother so far away!  

Taylor Van Soolen, Collision Technician 

Mark Miller Subaru’s Collision Shop has fostered an environment where they collectively and individually look for ways to positively impact the lives of others.  When there is a story to be told or an opportunity for someone to step in to help, it’s not uncommon for the manager to print and post the opportunity on the bulletin board. Taylor Van Soolen is one who regularly rises to the occasion to show some Subaru Love.  

On one such occasion, Taylor saw an email taped to the bulletin board where he read about the terrible, no-good day that a customer was going through. The customer’s wife was enduring her fourth round of highly invasive cancer treatment, his son was coping with a life-changing diagnosis, and unexpected expenses were compiling.  All this on top of a mysterious clanking noise was coming from his Outback which seemed to confound the local non-Subaru repair shop where the vehicle had been repaired following an accident.  Looking for help, the customer arrived at the Mark Miller Subaru Service Center, and his situation was shared with the Collision Shop by one of the Service Managers.  Once Taylor heard what the customer was going through, he offered to donate his time and help the customer out. The situation surrounding the customer’s vehicle was complicated. Poor-quality repairs, denied insurance claims, and a family going through more than most could imagine. Taylor, alongside his Collision Shop Team and his friends at the Main Shop, made sure the necessary repairs were completed properly. He coordinated with many and provided solutions, not because he had to, but because he saw the person behind the problem and knew he could help. 

Taylor’s involvement reflects what the Subaru Love Promise looks like in action. He showed that we don’t just take care of cars, we take care of people. Taylor didn’t look for recognition and most were unaware of his generosity until the customer review was published to search engines. Despite Taylor’s unsanctimonious approach he is in no doubt a Shining Star of his own merit.

Josh Gathercole, Midtown Assistant Service Manager (at the time) 

Assistant Service Manager at Mark Miller Subaru Midtown, Josh Gathercole, is the kind of leader everyone wishes they had.  He is regularly seen fist bumping, high-fiving, and even hugging members of his team (and off his team).  He takes a human-centered approach to all he does. Josh is the embodiment of empathy, the one Customer Commitment Pillar that most either have - or they don’t, and Josh has it in spades.  One example of this was Josh’s engagement with a guest who was worn down, both physically and emotionally, by the time he arrived at Mark Miller Subaru Midtown with concerns about his daughter’s vehicle.  Michael Unanue pulled into door number three and checked in with his advisor explaining that his daughter had been in an accident earlier and she had gone to a non-Subaru body shop for repairs.  Mr. Unanue did not have confidence in the repairs after driving his daughter’s vehicle and decided to bring it to Mark Miller Subaru for an inspection of the work performed.  Josh’s human-centered approach uncovered the additional sources of Mr.Unanue’s stress.  Josh learned that Mr. Unanue’s wife had just gone through her fourth spinal surgery as part of her cancer treatment. His son was newly diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. His daughter was still recovering from her accident. On top of it all, Michael received a speeding ticket on the way to our store, the first in 25 years. 

For Josh, this wasn’t just another repair, it was about taking care of Mr. Unanue.  He assured Mr. Unanue that his daughter’s vehicle was properly inspected by one of our Subaru Certified Master Technicians. This inspection uncovered damage that had not been detected and repaired at the other bodyshop. Josh contacted Subaru of America and was able to get parts on discount and worked with insurance to re-open the claim.  Josh referred the vehicle to our Subaru Certified Bodyshop and maintained contact with Mr. Unanue throughout the process.  Mr. Unanue’s concerns for his daughter's safety have been alleviated as she returns to the road in her Subaru. He shared in a review, “Nothing compares to Mark Miller Subaru, every staff member is courteous, shows genuine empathy, and goes out of their way for the customer. Hands down the most reputable and moral service and collision shop.  Our Subaru Outback feels better now than any time over the past four years of ownership.”  Mr. Unanue shares that in his 50 years of experience with dealerships and service centers there is something uniquely Subaru and uniquely Mark Miller.  

Josh is no doubt a Shining Star, and this example is just one of many. He kept the customer informed, connected the dots, and never lost sight of the human side of the experience. He was honest and present through every step. It wasn’t about the transaction; it was about showing up for someone who needed support. That’s what makes Josh a Shining Star. He exemplified the kind of leadership and compassion that defines Mark Miller Subaru.

Sarah Harper, South Towne Service Advisor

It is with great pleasure and admiration that we nominate Sarah Harper for the prestigious Shining Star Award. Sarah's warmth and compassion shine through in every interaction. Her dedication to providing exceptional care to our customers is evident, as she goes above and beyond to ensure that each individual feels valued and supported. Her exceptional qualities as an advisor and her remarkable commitment to helping others were recently demonstrated in an extraordinary act of kindness that truly embodies the spirit of this award.

Distressed and stranded on the side of the road, a Subaru owner found herself in desperate need of assistance. She was on a road trip and far from her local Subaru store but confident in the Love Promise she called the nearest store which happened to be Mark Miller Subaru Southtowne.  Her call reached Sarah Harper with only about an hour before closing; she could not have been in better and more capable hands. 

The woman, just hours earlier, received the devastating news – her sister had been diagnosed with terminal cancer. She was determined to be by her side in this time of need.  She left immediately, only to encounter car trouble just 2 hours into her 8 hour drive. The stress in the older woman’s voice was present as she indicated over the phone her check engine light turned on and she needed to stop in and get it looked at. She was far enough out that it was unclear if she’d make it to us before closing.  

Sarah quickly invited the customer to come straight in and ask for her, meanwhile, Sarah tracked down a technician that was willing to stay and work after closing to help this desperate customer.  When the woman arrived, it was quickly determined that the issue was not going to be easily remedied, the check engine light code was for a valve body. Sarah did not give up or quit.  She reached out to her team after hours and was able to secure a loaner for the evening and get parts ordered for delivery to be ready for the vehicle the following morning. 

The woman’s trip was delayed by one evening which was less than ideal, but Sarah's empathy and genuine concern added to the customer’s confidence in Subaru. The customer returned the following morning, refreshed and ready to continue her journey. She was overtaken with emotion of gratitude and shared a special moment with Sarah who was able to help her in her moment of distress.  Sarah assured her that she was “simply doing what anyone else would have done.”

Beyond her exceptional customer service skills, Sarah's actions serve as a reminder of the profound impact that kindness can have on those in need. Her unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of others is both inspiring and commendable. She exemplified the values of compassion, empathy, and selflessness that are at the heart of the Shining Star Award. In recognition of her extraordinary acts of kindness and her ongoing commitment to serving others with grace and compassion, we wholeheartedly nominate Sarah Harper for the Shining Star Award. She is a true gem in our community, and her light shines brightly for all to see.

Ian Williams, South Towne Service Concierge (at the time) 

In the heart of our service center, amidst the daily grind of oil changes and tire rotations, a remarkable tale unfolded, reminding us of the power of human connection and kindness.

It began with a routine oil change for an elderly woman, who, unbeknownst to us, had recently endured a fall down her stairs, leaving her injured and alone. Despite the pain and difficulty, she mustered the strength to make it to her appointment, a testament to her resilience. It was clear she was in tremendous pain and every movement strained. Ian, our steadfast concierge, stepped in to ensure her safe journey home and offered to drive her home. With unparalleled care and compassion, he picked her up and carried her into her house. Unwilling to leave her unattended, Ian went the extra mile by using the customer’s phone to contact a friend who arrived and took her to seek medical care.  As he waited for the friend to arrive, Ian visited with the woman and even took her dogs out to use the restroom.  

His actions, though seemingly small, had a profound impact on the elderly woman and those who witnessed his kindness.  Ian’s actions embody the Love Promise pillars of Loves to Care, Loves to Help, and Loves Pets.  His story serves as a reminder that it is often the simple acts of compassion that make the greatest difference in someone's life.  Ian, through his genuine concern and selfless actions, has not only earned our admiration but also inspired us to strive for kindness in all that we do.

Trenton Jones, Midtown Service Advisor

It is with great pleasure and admiration that we submit this nomination for Trenton Jones for the "Shining Star Award" at Mark Miller Subaru Midtown. Trenton's dedication, integrity, and exceptional customer service make him truly deserving of this recognition. Trenton's journey at Mark Miller Subaru is one marked by significant growth and commendable achievements.

Beginning his tenure in the Business Development Center (BDC), Trenton quickly showcased his capabilities and eagerness to excel. Over time, he has taken on additional responsibilities, transitioning first as an express advisor and now serving as a main shop advisor. His progression within the organization reflects his unwavering commitment to personal and professional development. What sets Trenton apart is not just his professional accomplishments, but his remarkable ability to connect with customers on a profound level. Time and again, customers have praised Trenton for his honesty, transparency, and exceptional communication skills. As one customer noted, "It went smoothly and Trent was very honest and communicated every step of the way." Another customer expressed gratitude for Trenton's kindness, courtesy, and diligence in keeping them informed throughout a lengthy maintenance process. 

Moreover, Trenton's dedication to his role extends beyond the confines of the dealership. Despite juggling multiple jobs, Trenton's unwavering commitment to his customers never wavers. He exemplifies resilience and perseverance, consistently going above and beyond to ensure that every customer receives the highest level of care and attention. In one particularly poignant testimonial, a customer expressed appreciation for Trenton's steadfast support throughout a prolonged repair process, spanning several months. Despite facing numerous obstacles, Trenton remained dedicated to finding solutions and ensuring the customer's needs were met with excellence.

In conclusion, Trenton Jones embodies the values of integrity, compassion, and excellence that define Mark Miller Subaru. His outstanding performance, coupled with his unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, makes him an invaluable asset to the team. We wholeheartedly recommend Trenton for the "Shining Star Award," as his contributions undoubtedly make a lasting impact on both customers and colleagues alike. 

Thank you for considering Trenton Jones for this well-deserved recognition.

Mari Adair, Cafe Manager (at the time) 

Marielle (Mari) Adair stands as an exceptional candidate for the Shining Star Award, and we are honored to nominate her for this prestigious recognition. Since joining Mark Miller Subaru in 2016, Mari's journey has been nothing short of inspiring, marked by remarkable growth and exemplary leadership. Commencing her tenure as a front-line barista in Mark Miller Subaru's Cafe, Mari's commitment to excellence was evident from the outset. With a warm smile, she greeted employees and customers alike, ensuring they started their day on a positive note with a steaming cup of coffee and a nourishing breakfast. Her dedication and tireless work ethic never wavered, earning her the admiration of colleagues and patrons alike.

As Mari's passion for her work blossomed, so did her role within the organization. Progressing to the position of Cafe Manager, she not only oversees daily operations but also leads a diverse team, transforming the cafe into a thriving hub within our store. Under her stewardship, the cafe has evolved into more than just a place for sustenance; it's a vibrant community where individuals gather to connect and rejuvenate. Mari's ability to cultivate a sense of belonging is unparalleled. She has fostered an inclusive environment where individuals from all walks of life feel welcomed and valued. Her dedication to creating meaningful connections over a cup of coffee has enriched the fabric of our workplace and beyond. 

Beyond her managerial responsibilities, Mari's leadership shines through in every facet of her work. Her genuine concern for others, combined with her exceptional organizational prowess, makes her an indispensable member of our team. In recognition of Mari's outstanding contributions to Mark Miller Subaru and her unwavering commitment to fostering a welcoming atmosphere within our cafe, she undoubtedly merits the Shining Star Award. Her passion, dedication, and leadership embody the core values of our organization, and we wholeheartedly endorse her for this well-deserved honor.

Billy Gahan, Midtown Master Automotive Technician

I would like to nominate Billy Gahan for Subaru's Shining Star award.  Billy is one of our strongest and most talented Technicians, but not only that, Billy is an incredible mentor that all of our younger Technicians look up to (In fact, Billy represented the Denver Zone in the most recent Subaru national Tech competition!).  As we all know, time is money to a Technician, but that doesn't hold Billy back from being willing to help those around him, which shows that he cares about everyone succeeding, and Mark Miller Subaru succeeding, not just himself.  And to take that a step further, he was directly involved in helping us create our apprentice program!  He also gets involved in HR initiatives and has joined us for many job fairs, presentations, and competitions at our local automotive college.  Finally, Billy consistently takes precious time out of his day at work, playing a crucial role at Mark Miller Subaru, by being a member of our MMS Cares committee, helping guide his co-workers through our grant application process when they are struggling financially.  We are so beyond lucky to have Billy on our Mark Miller Subaru team!

Rachel Hixson, Midtown Finance Manager (at the time)

Rachel Hixson was hired as a Service Advisor in May of 2018. In that role, she has worked hard to take care of all of her guests which is evident given that she constantly maintained the highest NPS score on her team. With the busyness of the Service Drive, the Advisors are regularly doing three things at once, but Rachel was always willing to stop what she was doing to help a guest or coworker. In May of 2022, Rachel became a Business Manager, and continues to be a shining example of taking care of the people she works with. She ended 2022, seven months into learning her new role, with an NPS score of 91.7. This far into 2023, she’s at a NPS of 100! These scores reflect the care and attention Rachel gives to make sure that every customer is taken care of and made to feel like she is their advocate and friend. Though she has changed departments, Rachel has certainly not forgotten her team on the Service Drive; we have a new Advisor that started at the beginning of this year who Rachel has taken under her wing to help ensure that he is as successful in his role as she was. Rachel has shared the resources that she created (a huge file of op code cheat sheets, tips about how to bill out warranties, etc), and has even spent her downtime in Finance and her days off to sit with our newest Advisor to help him along. Rachel’s actions demonstrate her understanding that a win for the team is also a win for her.

Jake Boyle, Guest Experience Manager

There’s no doubt that one of the brightest lights in Subaru’s constellation of stars is Jake Boyle. As Mark Miller Subaru’s Love Promise Champion, Jake not only understands the importance of the Subaru Love Promise - he lives it and he teaches it!  From building and leading a team that provides exceptional ‘Subaru Level’ customer service as our Love Promise Champion (which he was recognized for in a Love Promise University’s HEART Beat eNewsletter in June of last year), to believing in the power of the life-changing power of Love Promise whereby he proactively supports causes in the community that serve the most marginalized among us (for which he and Mark Miller Subaru were recognized as a Monthly Love Promise Runner-Up Award Recipient in November of 2022), I cannot think of a more deserving individual to be recognized as a Subaru Shining Star.  Jake is the champion of "One Team One Jersey" motto, and not only does he constantly teach this to his team and to others, he emulates it himself.  Jake LIVES and breathes the Subaru Love Promise on his own time and with his own dime. I constantly see him supporting local organizations (like the Pride Center, Project Rainbow, Junior Achievement, etc..) over and above the support he offers Mark Miller Subaru's Love Promise Partners. Jake is a stellar example of living the Love Promise, and I hope he can be celebrated for his remarkable contributions in helping us make the world a better place. I also hope other employees will follow in his footsteps and make a goal to do more for the community in the upcoming year.

Will Baird, South Towne Sales Porter

Will Baird has worked for Mark Miller Subaru since September of 2020, but his love and passion for Subaru started long before then.  Will lives, eats, and breathes Subaru, and is known as “@subaru.guy.11” on Instagram, with over 4,000 followers, attending any rally meet that he can.  Will was hired as a Porter in our Sales Department, and although he’s a crucial member of that team (always willing to take extra shifts for his co-workers in the event they have an emergency come up), the impact that he has on our organization spreads much further than that.  Will has been volunteering with our virtual math tutoring program since he started, and takes that commitment so seriously that you can often see him running around the store doing his regular job while also helping his Kindergarten student with their math.  Will also volunteers to help our marketing team with their events, and in fact, was recently nominated for Mark Miller Subaru’s “Love Promise Employee of the Month” by a member of the marketing team, sharing that “Will helped keep the top parking lot empty by being one of the last to leave Friday and creating a vehicle barrier, and then one of the first to arrive Saturday so he could move the cars for event setup. During the entire event he was more than willing to help with any task assigned. He ran back and forth between helping customers with his primary job responsibilities, and then back to the event to offer his assistance. Thanks to Will for his enthusiasm and willingness to help!”  We are so lucky to have Will on the team and would love for him to be recognized as a Subaru Shining Star as he is so deserving, and I believe he would be more excited and appreciative of that recognition than anyone else out there because that’s who Will is.