About
The role of the NVAR Leadership Institute is to prepare interested members for a future in volunteer leadership within the Realtor® association environment. Realtor® members with demonstrated leadership abilities who are passionate about the industry are encouraged to apply.
Meet the 2025 Leadership Institute Class
Massiel Bermudez-Rios
Sharon Hayman
Krasi Henkel
Shontae Johnson
Christina Mesones
Margory Nunez
Jannet Pacori
Cristina Sison
John Strock
Charles Wade
Meghan Whaley
Chantal Winstead
NVAR offers accepted members an opportunity to participate in this year-long program, which provides participants with the skills and knowledge they will need to become effective leaders for the Association. The specific objective of the Leadership Institute is to familiarize future leaders with all aspects of the NVAR Realtor® family, including the Virginia REALTORS®, the National Association of REALTORS®, and Bright MLS.
Each Leadership Institute class consists of approximately 12 members who share their leadership journey with each other, build contacts, and develop and enhance their leadership skills for future leadership collaboration. If selected for the Leadership Institute, a $250 fee applies, to be fully refunded upon completion of the program. Applicants may also choose to invest the $250 fee in NVRPAC or donate to the REALTORS® Relief Foundation. There is also a Confirmation of Commitment that must be signed in order to continue.
Applications will be reviewed, and appointments will be made by the incoming NVAR President of the Board.
You may be overqualified if you currently serve or have previously served on the Board of Directors for NVAR, VAR, and/or NAR.
Courtney Groch
Director of Events and Association Leadership
cgroch@nvar.com
Jillian Oliver
Administrative Assistant to the CEO
joliver@nvar.com
Leadership Institute Schedule:
There are 11 in-person interactive sessions requiring approximately a one-day commitment per month throughout the year as outlined below. Completion of all sessions is required to graduate.
January
Dive into NVAR and the Leadership Institute! Network with new classmates, discover the value of this unique program, and gain an overview of class expectations. Learn about the history, mission, and structure of the Realtor® association on the national, state, and local levels, while gaining an understanding of the NVAR budget process, Realtor® Code of Ethics, NVAR Arbitration and Grievance, and NVRPAC and the lobbying process.
January
Join NVAR for one of our most popular events: Realtor® Lobby Day in Richmond. Gain insight into the lobbying process, meet your elected officials, and observe how NVAR staff work closely with the General Assembly and Virginia REALTORS® to lobby on behalf of Realtors®. The NVAR Government Affairs team and the chair of the NVRPAC Trustees will explain the connection between RPAC and its impact on the lobbying process.
February
Become masters of volunteer leadership including best practices, leadership planning roles and responsibilities, and communication techniques. Discuss the roles and responsibilities of the Board and staff in an association setting, along with the NVAR committee selection process. Take your knowledge further and learn methods to develop core leadership skills used by effective leaders within the Association. Students will hear from key leaders, such as current Directors and committee chairs, in a panel discussion regarding vision, strategic planning, leading versus managing, and more.
March
Attend an interactive media training instructed by a professional media consultant who will provide tools to help you effectively communicate with local media (and other facets of public relations). The focus will be on preparing for an interview, understanding your message, knowing what to say/what to leave unsaid, and a brief overview of social media strategies to promote the Realtor® brand.
April
Visit the Virginia REALTORS® offices and hear from NVAR’s very own members serving on the Virginia REALTORS® Board of Directors, tour the building, and meet with key staff at the state association.
May
Follow a sample agenda, attend several in-person events at the National Association of REALTORS® Legislative Conference & Meetings, and attend the RCE Luncheon.
June
Meet key staff and leadership of Bright MLS and hear an overview of content regarding benefits to members, along with an outlook of the MLS industry.
September
Meet key staff and leadership of the National Association of REALTORS® and tour their building in Washington DC. Learn the history of NAR’s affiliates and subsidiaries, along with an in-depth overview of what NAR does for state and local associations.
October
Be inspired by industry experts and make lasting connections at NVAR’s Annual Convention & Trade Show!
November
Plan next steps and future goals as a volunteer leader and position yourself for success. Hear from a panel of past Leadership Institute graduates discussing tips and tricks to succeed as a volunteer while conducting business. We will also present Class Projects during this session.
December
Congratulations! Attend the NVAR Installation of the Board of Directors, followed by a reception to network with Association leaders.
Staff Support
Courtney Groch
Director of Events and Association Leadership
cgroch@nvar.com
Jillian Oliver
Administrative Assistant to the CEO
joliver@nvar.com