This week, I am writing from Houston, Texas, where I am attending the National Association of Realtors conference alongside delegates, leaders, and affiliated board members and staff from Rhode Island and all across the country.
Our Newport County contingent includes current NCBR President Rhonda Mesenbourg and our administrator, Hannah Hodgson, as well as past President Sandi Warner. It has been a productive few days of learning, networking, and thoughtful dialogue about the state of the real estate industry.Â
Fair housing, affordability, inventory challenges, market trends, and evolving technology have all been at the forefront of the conversation. The chance to learn from national experts and connect with colleagues and board presidents from across the country has been a powerful reminder of the responsibility that comes with serving our professional and local community.
Stepping into the role of President of the Newport County Board of Realtors this year is an honor I never imagined when I first got licensed in 2018. At that time, I was still working in hospitality and building my real estate career part-time, hoping simply to gain traction and serve clients well. Seven years later, now as a broker and co-owner of my own firm, having the opportunity to lead an organization I deeply respect, in a place I am proud to call home, is both incredibly humbling and meaningful.
Leadership matters to me because the standard of professionalism in real estate matters to me. The way we show up for each other, the way we serve our clients, and the way we advocate for our communities directly impacts the quality and professionalism of real estate in Newport County. My goal as President is to further engage our REALTOR® community, elevate education, strengthen professionalism, and continue giving back in ways that reflect the values of our members. I believe strongly that the Newport County Board of Realtors sets the standard in Rhode Island, and my hope is to help us build on that foundation together.
I am also fortunate to step into this role alongside a dedicated and talented Board of Directors. Our 2026 leadership team includes Immediate Past President Rhonda Mesenbourg, President Elect Steven Sitrin, and Treasurer Elizabeth Enochs. Our Directors include Jeff Brooks, Benjamin Willett, Erica Arruda, Erin Moitoza, Deirdre Hecht, and Quentin Warren. This is a committed group of professionals who care deeply and volunteer their time, and I am grateful to work with them.
One of the aspects of our board that I am most proud of is our nonprofit 501(c)(3) arm, the Newport County Board of Realtors Charities Committee. Our charitable work is led by an incredible group of volunteers under the leadership of realtor Meredith Leblanc. Recently, WhatsUpNewp covered one of our projects, where we partnered with A1 Roofing and GAF Roofing to replace the roof of a deserving local woman. This initiative is just one example of the meaningful, community-driven work our committee undertakes. Whether the need is something as essential as heating oil, clothing after a disaster, or emergency housing support, our team works hard to make a tangible difference. If you or someone you know is in need, please reach out. The generosity of our volunteers and business partners is what makes this impact possible, and I am truly grateful for each of them.
I also want to extend an open invitation to anyone who would like to get involved. Whether you are a licensed agent, someone considering a career in real estate, a local business interested in partnering with us, or a community member who wants to volunteer, we welcome your participation. Our work is stronger when more voices and perspectives come to the table, and we would be grateful to have you join us.
As I prepare to return home this weekend, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to be part of such an exceptional professional community. The conference, led by current NAR President Kevin Sears, a fellow Providence College graduate (go Friars!) and Massachusetts resident, has reinforced how important strong leadership is at every level of our industry. I am humbled by the support of my peers and energized by the opportunities ahead.
While there is no exact metric, it is estimated that we spend well over half our lives at home. A home is more than four walls and a roof. It is where we find comfort, create memories, and build our lives. Housing advocacy is important to me because everyone deserves the opportunity to live and work in a community they love, and I am committed to supporting that here in Newport County.
It is an honor to serve as President of the Newport County Board of Realtors. I look forward to working together to strengthen our profession, support our community, and uphold a standard of excellence that truly matters to me.