Boston National Meeting and Installation Recap by Rosanna Garcia

This year’s National meeting in Boston was stellar.  Not only did we have the usual great education sessions and speakers, but we as California members, were proud to see our own Heather Ozur installed as the National President. We ran/walked a 5K for the Realtor Relief Fund as a Women’s Council team. Not to mention, we were present when the Red Sox won the World Series, so we were able to witness the celebration in the city. 
The meetings were held at the Westin Waterfront, a hotel directly connected with the convention center. This made for easy access for our members to attend the NAR expo and education sessions. Women’s Council also had great presentations which included a panel with our National line officers. They outlined the upcoming year’s strategic plan and gave members insight into positive changes being made for our networks. For example the website is getting revamped and we updated our Mission & Vision statements.  

The coming year will also be the first year National will start a Leadership Institute. The first year will be by invitation only.  15 members chosen from across the country will begin the Leadership Institute in Chicago in March, and then classes will coincide with meetings in Washington D.C. And then at National in San Francisco.
We also had breakout sessions over the 4 day conference which were led by
members and guest speakers alike. Topics included: “Advocating for your
Career” presented by Tami Bonnell and “Lead Authentically” and “Identifying Future Leaders” presented by Ginger Downs. 
The 5K walk/run was chilly and rainy but our Women’s Council Team showed up and we ended up having the 2nd largest team. Everyone finished the race, and no one got hurt so all in all it was a great success and Realtors raised over $100,000!

The installation had a great turnout and a good time was had by all. California represented well and the room was filled with many well wishers and dignitaries. The CA leadership team was asked to present to the audience a speech of congratulations to Heather, unfortunately our President Cheryl Keller missed the event due to a broken ankle. President-Elect Fiona stepped in and did a great job. We waved our CA flags proudly.  Heather’s presentation was cutting edge and was filled
with positive energy.

The food was great and the gifts to attendees were blue and yellow polka dot scarves for the women and the gift for the men was same colored ties.  There was an after party which included champagne and wine and a live three piece band. The members danced the night away. 

The conference, installation and visit to one of America’s finest cities were all wonderful. As usual we spent time networking with our CA peers, and other members from across the country, the relationships you forge at these meetings are priceless. The networking and referrals that result from it all are just a bonus.
See you all soon in Indian Wells for another great meeting and our CA leadership team installation.
Rosanna