End of a Quarter Century

From the CEO's Desk

How do you say goodbye to an organization that has been so good to you? The good news is that it’s not “goodbye” but “see you around.” If you haven’t heard it already, I have accepted a position with the National Association of Realtors® as Senior Vice President of Industry Relations. I’m sad to leave the organization that helped shape me into who I am over my 25-plus-year career. However, I’m excited to take on the challenges ahead of me as I work with NAR’s CEO, Nykia Wright, as part of her team to rebuild NAR for the future.

I must thank so many members who taught me the real estate business in NJ when I started as your Government Affairs Director in 1999. My first state president, Gloria Woodward, spent time with me to teach me the ins and outs of a real estate transaction, which helped me understand issues facing our industry during my tenure as our lobbyist. However, one individual took me under his wing and mentored me, Bob Ferguson, NJ Realtors® CEO, for over forty years. He was an amazing leader, and to this day, I ask myself what Fergy would do when facing a challenge or difficult decision.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with many dedicated volunteers and leaders. I would love to list every Realtor® who has impacted my career, but the 500 words they allotted me for this article just wouldn’t be long enough.

So let me say “THANK YOU” to everyone who has volunteered to serve on a committee or our board to advise and guide New Jersey Realtors®. Your dedication to your profession has made our organization what it is today. I am truly grateful for your guidance.

THANK YOU to all the New Jersey Realtors® Past Presidents and leadership team members who sacrificed time in their businesses and with their families to volunteer to lead. I hope you see that your sacrifices contributed to the success of our organization.

And THANK YOU to the “TEAM,” our NJ Realtors® Staff. I have never met a more dedicated group willing to do whatever it takes for our organization to succeed. I consider you all an extension of my family. The hardest part of leaving is knowing I won’t see you all daily.

Lastly, THANK YOU to our new CEO, Douglas Tomson. He came to me 21 years ago to learn about NJ politics and lobbying. He has become a friend and someone I always knew I could rely on. When I walk out the door for the last time as CEO at the end of February, I leave our organization in capable hands. Doug will take NJ Realtors® even further with his leadership and knowledge.

While I won’t be CEO of NJ Realtors® anymore, my connection with you and NJ remains strong. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities you have given me and hope that I will make you proud at NAR.