President's Message

The past few days have undoubtedly been difficult for all of us. Recent news and conversations have raised legitimate concerns and highlighted frustrations among many dedicated members. We genuinely appreciate those who have shared their thoughts openly and honestly—your voices guide our efforts toward improvement and transparency.
I recently heard of a heartfelt conversation with one of our passionate SRA members who humorously noted that they were "born with a clipboard and tape measure in their hands." It struck me deeply—these dedicated dirt shoes field appraisers embody the very spirit of what the Institute represents: hard work, integrity, and commitment to excellence. Their candid insights remind us why transparency, accountability, and respect are non-negotiable.
To all our members, particularly those working daily in the field, we acknowledge the frustration and disappointment you may feel, especially given the current circumstances. Your trust and confidence are essential to our collective success, and we understand we need to earn that every day. While we can't erase the past or the perceived dysfunctions, we can—and will—work tirelessly to make sure our future is stronger and more transparent.
I recognize that for many of you, the value of your designations has opened important doors, helped build successful careers, and reinforced your professional credibility. The dedication and professionalism you demonstrate every day on behalf of your clients and communities inspire us all. Your contributions are invaluable, and we are committed to ensuring your continued success and satisfaction as members of this Institute.
Our, or rather YOUR dedicated staff and committed volunteer appraisers are fully invested in empowering you, the profession, and the broader community around us. We are proactively addressing the challenges before us by fostering a culture of open dialogue, accountability, and meaningful action. Our commitment to you I hope is clear: we will work to the best of our abilities to work past these issues as openly, responsibly, and effectively as possible, ensuring all voices are not just heard, but actively respected.
I could tell you that in order to achieve these goals, we are enhancing our internal processes, refining our communication channels, and bolstering our efforts around transparency. Additionally, we are working on new initiatives specifically designed to better support and engage our diverse membership, recognizing the unique challenges faced by residential and commercial appraisers alike. Which is the truth, but I know that is not what you want to hear, but know we are here.
We also deeply value your participation in shaping our future. As we move forward, your perspectives, suggestions, and even your critiques will remain instrumental in helping us grow and improve. Your experiences in the field, combined with your commitment to ethical standards and professional excellence, provide the foundation upon which the Appraisal Institute stands.
Open communication and dialogue are crucial. If you have questions, concerns, or just want to talk, please reach out. The door is always open, whether it's a formal conversation or a casual chat over coffee. Your input isn't just welcomed—it's necessary.
Let’s remain steadfast in our resolve to build a stronger, more unified Appraisal Institute. Together, we can overcome any challenge and pave the way for a brighter future—one built on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. Thank you for your unwavering dedication and trust. Together, we will move forward positively and transparently.