It is important that we continue to move our membership and the profession forward. One of our biggest initiatives this year is to continue to collaborate with other organizations to build relationships that will strengthen the profession. Learn more about that, and other timely updates, from the past month.
AI Collaborates with Other Organizations to Award Scholarships
I am excited that the Appraisal Institute collaborated with Fannie Mae and the National Urban League to announce the first class of 2021 aspiring real estate appraisers, who received scholarships through the Appraiser Diversity Initiative. The scholarship recipients were:
- Jamilah Abdur Rahman, Philadelphia;
- Angela Anderson, Portsmouth, Rhode Island;
- Heather Boyd, Waynesville, North Carolina;
- Vernon Davis, Jr, New Orleans;
- Devyn Gonzalez, Dallas;
- Akil Henderson, White Plains, Maryland;
- Theresa Kennedy, Atlantic City, New Jersey;
- Melinda Kitchens, Florence, Montana;
- Abby Reichner, Zephyrhills, Florida;
- Kristeen Reynolds, Port Arthur, Texas;
- Ophelia Robinson, Alexandria, Virginia;
- Heather Vallier, Jacksonville, Florida;
- Alea Walker, Columbus, Georgia; and
- April Zadow, Urbandale, Iowa.
The scholarships are
funded by the Appraisal Institute Education and Relief Foundation, which has
committed $150,000 over three years to the Appraiser Diversity Initiative. The
scholarships cover the three entry level courses required of appraisers and winners
are matched with advisers who help them through the education and credentialing
process.
This partnership is one of a growing number of
programs spearheaded by organizations working to carry the appraisal profession
forward. The Appraisal Institute, the American Society of Appraisers, the
American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, the Massachusetts Board
of Real Estate Appraisers and the National Society of Real Estate Appraisers
have combined resources to develop training that addresses potential
unconscious bias in valuation. The Appraisal Institute is also working with
policymakers such as Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) on how to bolster
fair housing programs and develop solutions to mortgage credit problems.
Find more information about the Appraiser Diversity Initiative here.
AI Debuted New and Improved Education Offering
“Appraising Condos, Co-ops, and PUDs” is a 7-hour education offering that previously premiered online. However, the new and improved online and classroom education offering debuted Feb. 22. In this course, you will learn why it is necessary to know how to identify the property type, why it is important to have a full understanding of the governing documents, why you need to understand where it is located and why it’s critical to analyze the market. You’ll also examine the four specific groups of community organizations: condominiums, cooperatives, planned unit developments (PUDs), and condominium hotels.
I encourage residential appraisers to check out this seminar. The next virtual offering is March 19. Learn more and register today.
AI Calls for ‘Volunteer of
Distinction’ Nominations
Do you know an AI professional (Designated Member,
Candidate for Designation, Practicing Affiliate or Affiliate) who has been
doing outstanding work for the profession and in their local community? AI wants
to recognize these great individuals with our “Volunteer of Distinction”
recognition program.
The
Appraisal Institute’s recognition program honors volunteers for their service
to the Appraisal Institute, to the real estate valuation profession and to their
local communities. Each quarter, the Appraisal Institute recognizes AI
professionals who have been nominated by their fellow AI professionals.
Individuals may be recognized once per calendar year.
Honorees will receive a certificate and a letter from me, and AI’s website will
list each quarter’s honorees. Additionally, honorees are highlighted in
Appraisal Institute communications, such as Chapter FYI, the monthly
President’s Message and Appraiser News Online. Any AI professional in good
standing may nominate another AI professional in good standing at VOD@appraisalinstitute.org.
Other News Around the Appraisal Institute
And here’s some other important news from the Appraisal Institute:
- AI posted two new videos to its YouTube channel during the past month. One includes information about AI’s 2021 Annual Conference, and in another I share AI’s priorities for the coming year.
- I’m sad to report the passing of 1977 American Institute of Real Estate Appraisers President William T. Van Court, MAI. William passed away in November. Our thoughts are with his family, colleagues and friends. Here’s the link to his obituary if you’d like to learn more: http://ow.ly/h7PF50DCXMQ
- Receive 40% off “The Dictionary of Real Estate Appraisal,” 6th edition until Feb. 28. This text has more than 5,000 terms and definitions for your reference. Take advantage of this opportunity before it’s too late! http://ow.ly/xC5D50DD0PX
- The Appraisal Institute continues to expand its social media activities. Be sure to follow AI on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and its blog, Opinions of Value.