Greater Chattanooga Realtors celebrated the installation of its 2025 officers and directors on Jan. 16 during its installation and awards reception. The annual event marks a significant moment for the association as members honor incoming leadership and meditate on the collective mission of Realtors in serving the Chattanooga community.
The association installed President Ellis Gardner, President-elect Connie Brewer, Secretary-Treasurer Jeff Nixon, Multiple Listing Service Chair Steven LaMar and Immediate Past President Kadi Brown.
Greater Chattanooga Realtors also installed directors Robert Baker, Paige Batten, Teresa Clegg, Rolanda Daniel, Brian Erwin, Natalie Hostetler, Denise Murphy, Karen Parris and Mike Purcell.
Gardner’s peers elected him to serve in the highest office of the association. Upon taking the oath of office, he emphasized the importance of teamwork and strategic planning as he shared his vision for the coming year.
“This is not an honorary title,” Gardner, a 24-year veteran of the real estate industry, said. “We each have a role to play. Do your job and trust your teammates to do theirs.”
Gardner outlined three key focus areas for 2025:
• Vision: Honoring the past while planning for the future.
• Strategic plan: Building a common cause to unify the membership and advance the association.
• Execution: Ensuring the association’s budget reflects its priorities and considers both financial and time costs.
To achieve these goals, Gardner stressed the importance of collaboration and engagement among members, likening the board chairs and committees to a team working together on the football field.
“Our chairs are the first string, but we need a team,” Gardner, a former NFL player, said. “I need your help to get the rest of our members out of the stands and onto the field.”
Gardner also stressed the importance of cooperation with neighboring associations, citing the proverb, “To go fast, go alone. To go far, go together.”
In closing, Gardner called on members to help recruit and inspire others to get involved, drawing from his own leadership journey.
“This year, Greater Chattanooga Realtors looks forward to fostering growth, advocating for the real estate industry and making a meaningful impact on the community. With a united team and strong leadership, 2025 is poised to be a year of progress and collaboration.”