New Officers and Directors Sworn in During January 16th Installation & Awards Reception
CHATTANOOGA, TN. (Jan. 23, 2025) – Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® celebrated the installation of its 2025 officers and directors on January 16th during the Installation & Awards Reception. This annual event marks a significant moment for the association as members join to honor incoming leadership and reflect on the collective mission of REALTORS® in serving the Chattanooga community.
Fourteen REALTORS® were sworn installed, including President Ellis Gardner, President-Elect Connie Brewer, Secretary-Treasurer Jeff Nixon, MLS Chair Steven LaMar, and Immediate Past President Kadi Brown. Also installed were Directors Robert Baker, Paige Batten, Teresa Clegg, Rolanda Daniel, Brian Erwin, Natalie Hostetler, Denise Murphy, Karen Parris, and Mike Purcell.
President Ellis Gardner, a REALTOR® for nearly 24 years, was elected by his peers to serve in the highest office of the association. Upon taking the oath of office, Gardner shared his vision for the coming year, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and strategic planning.
"This is not an honorary title," Gardner said. "We each have a role to play. Do your job and trust your teammates to do theirs." Gardner outlined three key focus areas for 2025:
1. Vision: Honoring the past while planning for the future.
2. Strategic Plan: Building a common cause to unify the membership and advance the association.
3. Execution: Ensuring the association’s budget reflects its priorities, with careful consideration of both financial and time costs.
To achieve these goals, Gardner stressed the importance of collaboration and engagement among members, likening the board chairs and committees to a team working together on the football field. "Our chairs are the first string, but we need a team," Gardner said. "I need your help to get the rest of our members out of the stands and onto the field." Gardner also expressed the importance of cooperation with neighboring associations, citing the proverb, "To go fast, go alone. To go far, go together."
In closing, Gardner called on members to help recruit and inspire others to get involved, drawing from his own leadership journey. This year, Greater Chattanooga REALTORS® looks forward to fostering growth, advocating for the real estate industry, and making a meaningful impact on the community. With a united team and strong leadership, 2025 is poised to be a year of progress and collaboration. #ThatsWhoWeR