President's Message
As 2025 comes to an end, this season is not only about celebrating holidays but also about reflection—and I’ve been taking time to do just that. This year, I had the privilege and honor of serving as AI’s President which has been the highlight of my career. The Appraisal Institute saw a great deal of change this year and I am proud to say we are well positioned for a strong 2026.
2025 was a year that saw strong engagement of membership looking for straightforward answers regarding our direction, leadership and financial status. My focus, and the focus of our leadership team, remains on building a stronger, more responsive organization for our members, and I am confident in the path ahead. Your questions, ideas, and commitment have shaped our direction and made our progress possible.
As the Appraisal Institute continues its important work of modernizing operations and elevating the member experience, leadership stability and strategic clarity are essential. I want to reaffirm the exceptional qualifications of John Udelhofen, whose background and track record align directly with the Appraisal Institute’s needs at this time. John is a seasoned CEO-level leader with a deep history of guiding organizations through transformation, building strategic plans, and strengthening business models. Throughout his career, across multiple industries, John has repeatedly been entrusted with leading companies through periods of change, modernization, and renewed growth. I can’t say enough about John’s vision and his implementation of that vision, not to mention that it is a pleasure to work with him.
In 2025, we made deliberate financial investments in our staff, systems, operational tools, and membership — all aimed at strengthening the organization for long-term growth. These improvements were intentional, strategic, and designed to position the
Appraisal Institute for a stronger future.
As a result of these investments, we will finish the year slightly below our budgeted forecast, but importantly, well within the range anticipated when the Board approved a deficit budget for this year. While some speculation has circulated regarding the size of the variance, I want to reassure members that the actual figure is far smaller than rumored.
Next year will be an exciting one, including the return of the Annual Conference and continued investment in tools and initiatives that enhance and deliver greater value to you, the members. With stronger systems in place and a clearer operational framework, we are well-positioned for a year of momentum, growth, and renewed engagement.
It is with great confidence that I step aside for Mike Mignogna to continue and increase our successful strategies and member engagement.
Thank you for your confidence and support in my leadership. It is an honor to serve, and I look forward to continuing our work together to achieve our shared goals. Wishing everyone peace, comfort and joy through the holidays and into the new year.
