How Do I Apply?
Interested members should submit an application by the end of October each year.

The 2027 application cycle is now open! All applications and supporting documentation must be submitted by October 15.

Application Requirements
All applicants must submit a completed application form online within the application period. The application form includes endorsements, letter of good standing, introduction video, and questions.

Connect with Us
If you have questions about the NC REALTORS® William C. Bass Leadership Academy, please contact us at 336-294-1415 or astinton@ncrealtors.org.

Applicant Profile: Who Should Apply?

REALTOR® members who have leadership experience within their community or at their local association but have not yet been actively involved at the state or national level.

REALTOR® members who have demonstrated leadership abilities who are passionate about the real estate industry.

You may be overqualified if you:

• Serve(d) as chairman on two or more committees at the state or national level
• Serve(d) as NC REALTORS® RVP
• Serve(d) on NC REALTORS® Executive Committee
• Serve(d) on NC REALTORS® Leadership Team or Extended Leadership Team

Participants are chosen by a Selection Committee. Upon selection, the candidates may be asked to interview with group members. Responses to industry challenges and leadership aspirations are given careful consideration, as they reflect personal point of view and vision.

The NC REALTORS® William C. Bass Leadership Academy is a ten-month program with training sessions structured around NC REALTORS® annual meetings and events.

Attendance at every session is necessary to graduate. Participants who have an unexcused absence for more than a full day of one session will be dropped from the program and encouraged to reapply. Selection for subsequent year’s program cannot be guaranteed.

Please note: Dates may be subject to change. Academy members should plan to be available for the duration of the dates listed below. 

• Virtual Session: November 30, 2026 | 1:00-2:00pm | Welcome to Leadership Academy
• Retreat One: December 3-4, 2026 | Greensboro | Leading Myself
• Retreat Two: January 26-28, 2027 | Pinehurst | Fundamentals of Leadership (in conjunction with NC REALTORS® Vision Quest/Winter Leadership Meetings)
• Virtual Session: March 9, 2027 | 1:00-2:30pm | Strategic Insight for Organized Real Estate
• Retreat Three: April 12-15, 2027 | Raleigh | Leaders as Advocates (in conjunction with NC REALTORS® Legislative Meetings)
• Virtual Session: May 11, 2027 | 1:00-2:30pm | The Volunteer-Staff Relationship
• Retreat Four: June 8, 2027 | Greensboro | What Leaders Know
• Retreat Five: July 12-14, 2027 | Chicago, IL | What Leaders Do
• Virtual Session: August 10, 2027 | 1:00-2:30pm | Leaders as Community Volunteers
• Retreat Six: September 22-24, 2027 | Raleigh | Leading the Industry
• Graduation: October 17-20, 2027 | Hilton Head (in conjunction with NC REALTORS® Convention)

What is the Financial Commitment?

• Participants will be billed $1,500 upon acceptance into the NC REALTORS® William C. Bass Leadership Academy.
• Tuition covers retreat programming and materials, overnight accommodations in single occupancy participant rooms, and scheduled meals with Academy Programming.
• Mileage to attend retreats is not reimbursable.
• Participants may incur additional expenses surrounding the retreats.
• Costs to register, travel, and attend retreats at Legislative Meetings and Convention are not covered.
• A $400 travel stipend will be provided to help cover airfare reimbursement for the Chicago retreat.