Ken Sopp received the 2026 Clemens-Pender Award from the National Vehicle Leasing Association (NVLA) at its annual conference in March, held in Nashville, TN. The Clemens-Pender Lessor of the Year Award is the highest honor bestowed by NVLA. The award is given to a leader and friend of NVLA.

Sopp is a past president and long-time board director of NVLA. He currently serves as president of Credit Union Leasing of America and Westlake Fleet Leasing. With deep experience in dealership ownership, fleet leasing, and indirect auto leasing, Sopp has played a significant role in shaping specialty and credit union leasing programs nationwide.

“His leadership within NVLA and his long-standing commitment to advancing the industry reflect the very values this award represents,” Tarry Shebesta, NVLA president, said. “Ken’s service, professionalism, and dedication to this association are deeply appreciated.”

In other award news, Kirk Browning received the President’s Award from the NVLA.

Browning received the award in recognition of his exceptional leadership and service to NVLA.

Browning serves as president of 1st Source Bank’s Auto, Truck, and Specialty Vehicle Fleet Divisions and brings over 40 years of commercial and retail lending experience across automotive and equipment sectors. He is a certified lease and finance professional, a member of the NVLA board of directors, and this year’s chair of the conference committee.

“Kirk and 1st Source Bank have been wonderful partners to NVLA for many years,” Shebesta said. “Kirk always attends the NVLA conference with a great team from 1st Source, and we are so appreciative of the support. Kirk’s leadership and steady hand have been instrumental in shaping this year’s program. Kirk’s dedication to NVLA and his commitment to excellence make him a worthy recipient of this award.”

“Thank you to the National Vehicle Leasing Association and President Tarry Shebesta for this tremendous honor,” Browning said. “I am truly grateful for the recognition, partnership, and support NVLA has shown over the years. It has been a privilege to work alongside such dedicated professionals, and I deeply appreciate the collaboration, trust, and shared commitment to advancing our industry. This award is meaningful to me; I am honored to accept on behalf of myself, the outstanding team at 1st Source Bank, and our 40-year milestone of serving the vehicle fleet industry.”