By SEMA News Editors
The SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala returns for its 50th anniversary and an elevated evening celebrating the individuals who have shaped––and continue to define––the automotive aftermarket industry.
Set for Friday, July 24, at the Renaissance Newport Beach, in Newport Beach, California, the annual Gala stands as one of SEMA's most prestigious traditions, highlighted by the SEMA Hall of Fame Class of 2026 induction ceremony, which this year will recognize four industry icons who have influenced and inspired the $52.65 billion automotive specialty-equipment industry.
"These four individuals have poured their time, talent and passion into building this industry. Their contributions have shaped what the aftermarket is today, and we're proud to recognize the impact they've made––both on the businesses they've led and on the people who have been lucky enough to cross their path," said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola.
Save your spot at the event by purchasing tickets and get to know the inductees below before you can celebrate alongside them and industry professionals at the SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala next month.
Doug Dwyer
With a career spanning 60 years across wheels and tires, motorsports marketing, media strategy and brand development, Dwyer's industry contributions reflect a rare combination of technical insight, professional integrity and service to others. He started his career working for Carroll Shelby Enterprises/Goodyear Racing Tires at age 16, served in the Army, and went on to build a strong leadership career at Appliance Industries, Weld Wheels and TrueSpoke Wire Wheels. As a partner in Bryson Dwyer Inc., he continued to strengthen professional standards and build lasting brand identities, always emphasizing honesty, craftsmanship and respect for both the product and the customer. As a SEMA volunteer, he organized and participated in numerous events and programs and was inducted into the 2023 Wheel & Tire Council--WTC (now the Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council--WTSBC) Hall of Fame for his industry impact.
Jay Leno
A passionate advocate for the automotive community and a high-profile car collector and enthusiast, Leno has utilized his platform to promote automotive culture since the early '80s. From spotlighting automotive craftsmanship through his weekly automotive show on YouTube--Jay Leno's Garage--and launching his own line of detailing products--Jay Leno's Garage Advanced Vehicle Care--to being a perennial guest, keynote speaker and award presenter at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Leno has amplified the stature of the aftermarket industry and SEMA's global presence. He's also supporting car culture and enthusiasts with government policymakers, working with SEMA leadership and the SEMA Action Network (SAN) to champion California Senate Bill 1392, known as "Leno's Law," legislation aimed at modernizing the state's smog-check process by creating a rolling 35-year exemption for collector vehicles.
Ellen McKoy
McKoy has devoted nearly five decades of leadership and service to the automotive aftermarket, beginning as co-owner of Skycoach Customizing in Long Island, New York, in 1975. Throughout her career, she has served as an entrepreneur, journalist, consultant and industry advocate. Through volunteer service, she served on the SEMA Board of Directors, created and advanced the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) and founded the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN). McKoy was a SEMA executive from 1994-2009. Skilled in institution building, she volunteered for SEMA following her tenure with the association, consistently identifying and addressing opportunities where members needed stronger organization, education or representation. Today, she continues to provide editorial, marketing and public relations services to aftermarket companies as founder of EMK Marketing.
Dennis Overholser
Overholser founded Painless Performance Products in 1990 to provide racers, hot rodders and automotive enthusiasts with easier and safer wiring solutions. His career is marked by a deep-rooted passion for automotive technology and a commitment to delivering superior products, backed by years of industry volunteerism and legislative advocacy. Overholser served on the SEMA Board of Directors from 2001-2006, chaired the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), volunteered for HRIA's precursor--the Street Rod Marketing Alliance (SRMA)--and was inducted into both the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (now the Motorsports Products & Media Council--MPMC) and HRIA Hall of Fame in 2013 for his industry involvement and contributions.
Whether you're a longtime participant or attending for the first time, the Gala offers a meaningful way to engage with the leaders and legacy of the SEMA community. From networking during the reception to the formal program and recognition moments, the evening is designed to bring the industry together to honor past achievements and inspire future innovation.
Seating is limited, and full tables are available for those looking to attend as a group.
2026 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala
Reception: 5:45 p.m.–6:45 p.m. PDT
Program: 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m. PDT
Location: Renaissance Newport Beach
4500 MacArthur Blvd.,
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Tickets and details: sema.org/gala
Cocktail or semi-formal attire is required. Attendees must be at least 16 years old to participate.
For questions or more information, visit sema.org/gala or contact Kristin Goodwin at kristing@sema.org.
