COLUMBUS (Dec. 6, 2023)-- Michael L. Jones was selected as the first recipient of the Columbus REALTORS® DEI Bridgebuilder Award on Dec. 2 at the 2023 Columbus REALTORS® Awards Gala held at the downtown Hyatt Regency.
Jones was selected for the award by the Columbus REALTORS Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee. It was also revealed that moving forward, this award will bear the name of the first recipient and will be known as the Michael L. Jones Bridgebuilder Award.
This award was created to recognize individuals who have not only championed diversity, equity, and inclusion within Columbus REALTORS® but who have also taken purposeful, and tangible actions that have produced positive outcomes in achieving and advancing the understanding of how diversity, equity, and inclusion positively impacts our culture at Columbus REALTORS and in the practice of real estate.
“Thank you for all you have done to push DE&I forward through Columbus REALTORS® and build those bridges with community partners and stakeholders,” said Columbus REALTORS® CEO Brent Swander.
This award is the highest recognition of achievement related to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). Through visionary leadership and commitment to fostering change, nominees should be passionate about making an impact in DE&I now and into the future.
Below, you will find the primary criteria used in the creation and future selection of winners of this award.
Demonstrate dedication and continuing commitment to advocating for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Association and in their workplace. Fostered positive communication and actively promoted inter-group relations among persons of different races, ages, ethnic origins, genders, sexual orientations, religious backgrounds, or physical and mental abilities. Participates in a variety of Columbus REALTORS® and community events that promote mutual respect, acceptance, cooperation, or tolerance: any level of involvement in community events, projects, efforts, or organizations that promote or celebrate tolerance and contribute to diversity awareness in the Association, community, and workplace. The ability to value and respect diverse points of view and varied ways to approach issues and topics. Leads others by their actions while advocating for change.
Earlier in the evening, Jones was also recognized for being the 2023 Columbus REALTORS® Salesperson of the Year. In September, the 2021 Columbus REALTORS® President was named the Ohio Salesperson of the Year at the Ohio Realtors Convention in Cincinnati.
