Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Association of Realtors® (VAR) has announced the selection of 12 members for its 2026 Leadership Academy, an immersive, year-long professional development program designed to cultivate the next generation of association and community leaders.
The 2026 VAR Leadership Academy Class includes:
Becky Alford, Northwest Vermont Realtor® Association
Chelsea Bevis, Windsor County Board of Realtors®
Kevin Casey, Green Mountain Association of Realtors®
Lauren Gaffney Cohen, Northwest Vermont Realtor® Association
Chris Cummings, South Central Vermont Board of Realtors®
Renick Darnell-Martin, Northwest Vermont Realtor® Association
Michelle Hebert, Green Mountain Association of Realtors®
Shannon Kane, Northwest Vermont Realtor® Association
April Lane, Orleans County Board of Realtors®
Megan Quinn, Southern Vermont Board of Realtors®
Brooks Reavill, Windsor County Board of Realtors®
Amy Thompson, Lamoille Area Board of Realtors®
The Leadership Academy brings together twelve emerging leaders from across the state who have demonstrated a commitment to the industry and a desire to grow as advocates, professionals, and volunteers. Participants will take part in six in-person sessions throughout the year, focused on strengthening leadership skills, expanding professional networks, and deepening their understanding of the association and its role in serving members and consumers.
The program places a strong emphasis on advocacy, professionalism, and the inner workings of the Realtor® association, helping participants better understand how the association protects private property rights, supports homeownership, and advances the real estate profession. Members will also engage in team-building activities designed to enhance collaboration, communication, and relationship-building skills.
In addition to professional growth, participants will expand their statewide network, connect with association leadership, and gain valuable insight into public policy, governance, and volunteer leadership pathways. Graduates of the Leadership Academy are expected to go on to become identifiable leaders within their local boards, the state association, and their broader communities.
“The Leadership Academy is an investment in the future of our profession and our association,” said Jenifer Hoffman, Class Chair and 2026 VAR President. “These participants represent the next generation of Realtor® leaders who will help guide our organization and advocate for housing and homeownership across Vermont.”
“The 2026 Leadership Academy reflects VAR’s ongoing commitment to leadership development, advocacy, and building strong professionals who serve consumers and communities with integrity,” said Kyle Tetzlaff, Chief Executive Officer for VAR.
About VAR
The Vermont Association of Realtors® serves more than 2,100 Realtor® and affiliate members. VAR is part of the National Association of Realtors®, the largest trade association in the U.S. VAR serves members by providing resources that help them deliver real estate services in an ethical and professional manner, and advocates for the rights of property owners in Vermont.
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