In 2010, Columbus REALTORS® made a commitment that it would seek to nurture potential industry and community leaders. Since then, each year 12 REALTORS® embark on a journey designed to help you develop your expertise in business, public speaking, leadership, government, outreach and, of course, the real estate industry.
"Our time in Leadership Academy this year has transformed my life. Servant leadership, giving back to the community, and being your authentic true self are the lessons I learned. Thank you for the honor and privilege of being a proud Leadership Academy Alumnus. This program is transformative, and I highly encourage any future leaders to apply for Leadership Academy." - Troy Fabish
"Leadership Academy isn't for everyone. It's only for those individuals who want to identify ways to enrich their lives and their communities. It's only for people who are open to learning about themselves. It's only attractive to people who have an inherent need to share their gifts with others - even strangers - and be blown away by the return. It only engages professionals who strive to make their mark in this industry and this world in BOLD, permanent strokes. Who can make this program even better than it's ever been, to serve more than it's ever served, and to reach further than it's ever reached? ONLY you." - Tamasha Tennant
"Leadership Academy is the ONE investment everyone should make for themselves as an agent. Our industry is ever changing, and we are constantly having to adapt to it. LA gave me the tools to succeed by making me a better person first. Learning so much about our community and just how vital we are, how we can help that growth continue and what the future holds was a priceless experience." Jordan McBride, Class of 2022-23
"Leadership Academy is something EVERY agent should experience. My time in Leadership Academy has been transformative. The opportunity to learn more about our industry and our communities was enlightening and eye opening. The personal growth I experienced during Leadership Academy has brought me to the next level. The most valuable gift I received was sharing this experience with 11 ladies that were strangers in the beginning but are now true lifelong friends." Krysta Denner, Class of 2022-23
"Leadership Academy is one of the best investments I have made in my professional career. To engage deeper into the community, get to know leaders in different industries, understand how our city and state operate and how vital we are to the health of this economy...not to mention all of the amazing training focused on improving my personal leadership skills - this program has it all." Kim Mills, Class of 2021-22
"The impact a real estate agent can make in our community is greater than most recognized. As a REALTOR® we have access to leading members of our community and to those working hard daily to make our neighborhoods a better place to live. I encourage our fellow agents to be active members in our communities and in our board. Improving the standards of our business is entirely up to us." Edward Sanchez, Class of 2021-22
"No other program will give you this much return on investment." - Jeff Cotner
"Leadership Academy is well worth the time, money and commitment. I feel honored to be a part of everything and know that I will continue to use my experiences in my personal life and career forever! Thank you, Leadership Academy, for the amazing and life changing experience!" - Megan Martin, Class of 2018-2019
"Leadership Academy is one of those once in lifetime experiences! You will never experience anything else that compares and I feel extremely privileged and fortunate to have been chosen as a candidate for the 2018-2019 Class!" - Ann Hunger, Class of 2018-2019
"Going though Columbus REALTORS® Leadership Academy was an experience I will never forget. It has touched every part of my life, not just my work. An excellent investment in yourself and your future." - Traci Klingler, Class of 2017-2018
"The Leadership Academy went beyond my expectation. I learned more about the great city I grew up in. I came to know and love some terrific REALTORS® and most importantly, I learned more about myself. I will always be grateful for my Leadership Academy experience." - Debbie McNichols, Class of 2017-2018
"Leadership Academy prepares you for life. This was an excellent way to improve my personal skills, expand my mind and gave me an opportunity to explore this amazing community. This is one training experience you never regret signing up for or forget what you have learned." - Lisa Gibbs, Class of 2016-2017
"Leadership Academy is an incredible experience that will truly challenge you, and I’d recommend it to any of my other Realtor friends out there. You’ll learn so much about this great city we live in … and a few things about yourself as well." - David Gill, Class of 2016-2017
"Leadership Academy was an incredible adventure. I had the opportunity to grow as a REALTOR® and leader in a variety of ways. The time & investment in this program will pay dividends in my personal life and career for years to come. The friendships made with the 11 other candidates are priceless." – Mandy Harless, Class of 2015-16
"This program was inspirational as well as educational. I learned more about myself and my community in eight months than in my previous 40 years." - Matt Long, Class of 2015-16
Learn more about our 2015-2016 class!
"What an extraordinary way to experience Columbus! You gave us access to people and places we never would have on our own. And even as a lifelong resident, I discovered things about Columbus I never knew. Thank you to opening our minds to so many possibilities. Through this program we have witnessed the results of leaders who have come before us and have learned lessons that will help us go forward to do our part." – Sarah Eagleson, Class of 2014-15
"The Leadership Academy is a great way to learn more about not only our Association, but our city, our Government, and the opportunities for Leadership roles beyond your real estate career." – Stacy McVey, Class of 2014-15
Learn more about our 2014-2015 class!
"The training in Leadership Academy taught me how to think, act and become the leader I always thought I had inside of me. It opened my eyes to ways I can serve my community, clients, family and friends. The resources you get exposed to, lead to serving opportunities that go well beyond your profession. Your role as a leader will forever be evolving." – Arnold DeSena, 2013/14 graduate
"I have been in the real estate business for 26 years and this program opened my eyes to many different aspects of life! You can always do things better." – John Royer, 2013/14 graduate
Learn more about our 2013-2014 class!
“The Columbus REALTORS® Leadership Academy is a well thought out, well executed program for any member that is interested in leadership or may already be a leader. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in becoming a more effective leader.” – Emmanuel Remy, 2012/13 graduate
“Most diverse experience of meeting important, interesting, and diverse group of leaders in our community. The opportunity to meet people and learn about their jobs and organizations was invaluable and will be remembered for the rest of my life.” – Jay Zollars, 2012/13 graduate
Learn more about our 2012-2013 class!
"The Leadership Academy provided the opportunity for me to develop, improve, expand, and strengthen my personal and professional leadership and communications skills. I would recommend the academy to anyone wanting to increase their leadership capabilities." – Shad Phipps, 2011-2012 class graduate
"Of all the leadership roles I have been in over the past 34 years in Real Estate, I found there is so much more to learn. The Columbus REALTORS® Leadership Academy is a great way to expand your knowledge and keep you growing in leadership." – Jill Rudler, 2011-2012 class graduate