An automobile dealership veteran has assumed part ownership of Orangeburg Nissan.

Robert “Bo” Gathers has joined in ownership of Orangeburg Nissan located on St. Matthews Road.

The move was effective Oct. 9.

Gathers joins Benji Brickle in the ownership of the dealership.

Gathers expressed his gratitude to both God and Brickle for giving him the opportunity.

“Three years ago he (Brickle) made a commitment prior to me coming aboard as a general sales manager that once I reached executive manager status with Nissan that I would eventually become a percentage owner,” Gathers said. “His word is his bond and I am humbly grateful.”

Gathers said he will continue the dealership’s focus on the management of inventories, expenses and customer retention.

“Nissan has one of the best mix of automobiles and programs to attract the market,” he said. “My job is to effectively utilize our incentive resources and offer our customers the best deal available and affordable.”

Gathers expressed his appreciation to his customers and looks to continue his service to them.

Gathers grew up in Charleston.

After high school, he went to West Virginia State University, where he majored in business administration and applied science and management. He also played defensive back for the football team, and later had the opportunity to try out for the NFL’s Houston Oilers.

Gathers spent 26 years with various Toyota dealerships and has worked in various capacities at Orangeburg Chrysler, Dodge and Nissan.

Beyond his work in the dealership business, Gathers has also been involved in the Orangeburg community.

He has held the office of president of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, vice president of the Orangeburg Civic Ballet and member of the Orangeburg Consolidated School District 5 Foundation.

In 1997, he was appointed to the OCSD 5 board to fill an unexpired term. He won election to the seat and currently serves on the board.

Gathers has served on the State Department of Education and several parent committees.

Gathers is married to Sharon and they have two daughters, Ashley and Jessica, both students at Claflin University.

Joe Fairey of Fairey Chevrolet-Cadillac and Brickle partnered in 2001 to build Orangeburg Nissan on St. Matthews Road between the two dealerships.

Brickle is also the owner of the sister dealership next door -- Orangeburg Dodge Chrysler.

Orangeburg Dodge Chrysler will be under the sole ownership of Brickle.

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