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Alison Cohen
//August 24, 2022
Alison Cohen
Vice President
Priority 1 Automotive Group/Admiral Leasing
While working toward a bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising from the University of Delaware, Alison Cohen sold her first car after her freshman year at her family’s business Priority 1 Automotive Group in Towson. That sale led to her joining the company and rising to the position of vice president. Last year, the family sold the dealership.
Cohen has been active with the Mt. Washington Pediatric Foundation, serving on its board, gala committee, and as chairman for several years.
What do you think is the No. 1 challenge working women face?
I think one of the biggest challenges working women face is finding a work/life balance. Wanting to be successful in everything we do, we feel the need to work twice as hard as men to prove ourselves, and often feel guilty if we take time off.
How did you inspire change in your organization or the community as an up-and-coming leader?
I have endeavored to bring my work and philanthropic worlds together. Sharing my passion for Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital with employees, clients, and business partners have brought many people that were unfamiliar with them in the past to join. Support continues to grow, benefitting the children MWPH helps to heal and grow, as well as the local community.
My enthusiasm and persistence have also helped to bring other volunteers and the incredible MWPH development team together to meet and exceed the fundraising goals that we set.
What do you consider your most significant professional accomplishment to be?
I’m particularly proud of my efforts to convert our MINI dealership to a negotiation-free dealership back in 2018. Not only was it instrumental in improving our sales, but it also dramatically improved the overall experience for our clients and helped to change the stigma surrounding car dealers.
This change resulted in my being named one of Automotive News’ 40 Under 40 that year, which had always been a goal of mine.
