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Leadership Academy

The Southwestern Illinois Board of REALTORS® Leadership Academy is an exciting new program designed to identify, inspire, and empower the next generation of leaders in our association and the real estate industry. This initiative offers participants a unique opportunity to engage in interactive workshops, gain behind-the-scenes insight into the mission and operations of SIBR, and develop key leadership skills alongside fellow REALTORS®. Whether you're looking to deepen your involvement or prepare for future leadership roles, the SIBR Leadership Academy is your gateway to growth, connection, and lasting impact.

Important Dates: 

  • Applications Open: July 14, 2025
  • Applications Close: August 8, 2025
  • Interview Window: August 18 – August 29, 2025

Program Dates & Format

The program begins in November 2025 and concludes in June 2026, with in-person sessions held monthly at the SIBR office. Topics include:

  • SIBR 101 / Core Standards

  • Public Speaking for Leaders

  • Community Leadership Panels

  • Governance

  • Advocacy

  • Legal Issues

  • Business Planning

  • Community Involvement

Graduation will take place at the SIBR Installation/Annual Meeting in October 2026.

Application & Selection Process

  • Applications must be submitted within the designated timeframe

  • The Nominating Committee will review applications and select candidates for in-person interviews at the SIBR office

  • Final participant selections will be approved by the Board of Directors

Tuition:

  • $100 application deposit (refundable if not accepted)
  • $200 remaining tuition (non-refundable, due within 30 days of acceptance)

Graduation will take place at the 2026 SIBR Annual Membership Meeting and Installation, with additional recognition at the SIBR Awards Celebration and on our website.

Participation Requirements

To graduate from the SIBR Leadership Academy, participants must:

  • Be a SIBR member in Good Standing

  • Submit an application, including two letters of recommendation and a $100 deposit (refunded if not accepted)

  • Upon acceptance, pay the $200 non-refundable tuition within 30 days

  • Complete a book assignment before the first session

  • Finish C2EX, Fairhaven 2.0, and Bias Override training through NAR

  • Attend all monthly sessions (only 1 unexcused absence allowed)

  • Participate in the Capitol Conference trip to Springfield, IL

  • Complete a community service project for NAR Volunteer Week

  • Attend three major SIBR events such as the Awards, Installation & Annual Meeting, Golf Outing, Holiday Celebration, Taste of SIBR, or Members Cardinals Game

  • Attend four REALTOR® After Hours or Breakfast Connection events

  • Attend the SIBR Mayoral and Legislative Breakfasts

Recognition & Graduation

Leadership Academy participants and graduates will receive:

  • A Leadership Academy name badge while in the program

  • A certificate and pin at the SIBR Annual Membership Meeting/Installation

  • A custom email signature for use after graduation

  • Name recognition on the SIBR website

  • Honorable mention at the SIBR Award Celebration following their graduation year

SIBR Leadership Academy 2025–2026 Schedule:

 

Monday, November 10, 2025

Session: SIBR 101 / Core Standards
Overview: Gain insight into SIBR’s mission, structure, and the Core Standards that guide our work. This session lays the foundation for your leadership journey. Will also include an introduction to the community project.
November Event: Taste of SIBR

 

Monday, December 8, 2025

Session: Governance – Presented by Kerry Kidwell
Overview: Learn the fundamentals of Robert’s Rules of Order and effective board governance.
December Event: SIBR Holiday Party

 

Thursday , January 22 2026

Session: Advocacy – Presented by Ron Deedrick
Overview: Gain tools to effectively represent SIBR’s interests at both local and national levels.
January Event: Mayoral Breakfast

 

Monday, February 9, 2026

Session: Public Speaking for Leaders – Presented by Anthony IR
Overview: Build communication confidence and sharpen presentation skills for leading meetings and representing the association.
February Event: (None)

 

Monday, March 9, 2026

Session: Legal Issues / Update – Presented by Vickie Munson

Overview: Understand the legal responsibilities, risks, and protections associated with leadership roles.
March Event: SIBR Awards Ceremony

 

Monday, April 13, 2026

Session: Execution Over Excuses: Strategic Business Planning for Bold Leaders – Presented by Shelyna Tinglin
Overview: Great leaders don’t wait for results—they plan for them. This power-packed session will challenge you to shift from reactive to results-driven through strategic business planning. Learn how to focus on the right numbers, map your vision into a 12-week execution cycle, and build momentum that multiplies. If you're tired of staying busy without seeing growth, it’s time to lead with intention, measure what matters, and execute without compromise. No fluff. No guesswork. Just a blueprint for bold, measurable growth
April Event: Capital Conference

 

Monday, May 11, 2026

Session: Team Building/ Community Project Wrap-up

Overview: Discover how to lead with purpose by designing a meaningful community impact project.
May Event: Illinois REALTORS® ReConnect Conference

 

Monday, June 8, 2026

Session: Leadership in Action – Guest Speakers from the Community
Overview: Panel of community speakers/ non-profit organizations
June Event: SIBR Cardinal’s Game

For questions regarding the application or the Leadership Academy, contact the Director of Operations and Events of Southwestern Illinois Board of REALTORS®, Katie Hunziker, at 618-277-1980 ext7  or khunziker@sibrealtors.om

 

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