NVAR

NVAR Leadership Institute

Leadership is not a position. It is an action and example.

Congratulations to 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

Leadership Institute

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.

You may be overqualified if you:

Serve(d) on the Board of Directors for NVAR, VAR, and/or NAR

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. Applicant may also choose to donate the $250 fee to the NV/RPAC or 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.

Staff Support:

Courtney Groch
Director of Events and Association Leadership
cgroch@nvar.com

Grace Parr
Associate Director of Communications, Engagement, and Experience
gparr@nvar.com

MicrosoftTeams-image (90)

participants at NVAR economic summit

LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE SCHEDULE:

There are 11 in-person interactive sessions each year 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 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 the NVRPAC and lobbying process.

January

Join NVAR for one of our most popular events: Realtor® Lobby Day in Richmond. Gain insight into the lobbying process in Richmond, 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 RPAC 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 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

Hear from NVAR’s very own Virginia REALTORS® Directors on their involvement at the state level. We’ll tour the Virginia REALTORS® offices and meet key staff at your state association.

May

Follow a sample agenda and attend several events in-person at 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 Board of Directors, followed by a reception to network with association leaders.

NORTHERN VIRGINIA ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

At NVAR, we are committed to providing inclusive services for all individuals. If you require any accessibility or language accommodations while visiting our building, please contact us here.

Web Design and Development by Matrix Group International, Inc. ®

Real Estate Service Providers →

Homebuyers & Sellers →