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    William S. Harps DEI Award

    Recognition of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

    The William S. Harps DEI Award recognizes an Appraisal Institute Member who exemplifies the value of diversity, equity and inclusion in the valuation profession, and has contributed to making the profession reflective of all the communities we serve.

    William S. Harps, MAI, was the first African American to earn the MAI designation (1960). He was a past president of American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers (1981) and a leader in breaking racial barriers in the appraisal profession. Harps passed in 2009.

    Charissa N.C. Kwan, MAI, AI-GRS

    William S. Harps DEI Award 2024

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    Ready to nominate yourself or a colleague?

    Beginning in 2026, our national awards will once again be presented at the AI Annual Conference. These honors are among the highest recognitions in our organization, and presenting them during our largest gathering reflects their true significance. To align with this return to a time-honored approach, the nomination deadline for all 2025 awards has been extended to December 1, 2025.

    Submit a Nomination Now!

    Akia Smith, MAI