Renee Cooney, ABR, AHWD, GRI, RENE, SRES
Carolina Smokies Association

A Legacy of Leadership Across North Carolina
As a native of Macon County with ancestral roots spanning over 200 years in Western North Carolina, my commitment to this state runs deep. My family’s legacy is woven into its very fabric. I am dedicated to ensuring a strong, thriving professional community across North Carolina, built on the foundation of those who led before us.

I am a licensed North Carolina Professional Land Surveyor and Real Estate Broker and the Owner and Broker-in-Charge of Legacy Properties by Renee, LLC. My professional path has been shaped by education, advocacy, and leadership, including my time as a graduate of the 2018 William C. Bass Leadership Academy with NC REALTORS®. I was honored as 2016 REALTOR® of the Year for the Carolina Smokies Association of REALTORS® and served as its President in 2015 and 2016.  Additionally, I have had the privilege of teaching NC Real Estate Pre-licensing and Post-licensing courses, helping shape the next generation of professionals.

A Vision for the Future
True leadership is about engaging, collaborating, and advancing our profession. I have served at the state level on several committees as well as NC REALTORS® Region 9 RVP and now as Treasurer, where I continue working to strengthen education, advocacy, and innovation for our members.

The future of our profession depends on leaders who are forward-thinking, proactive, and committed to growth. We must support and equip our professionals, embrace change, and create opportunities that ensure our industry remains strong for years to come.

Continuing Leadership, Building a Lasting Legacy
My campaign is rooted in legacy and continued leadership, ensuring a future of opportunity for North Carolina REALTOR® members.   We must elevate our profession, strengthen our communities, and foster engagement to ensure a legacy that lasts.

View a video message from Renee

 Adam Upchurch, AHWD, C2EX, CIPS, SPS
Topsail Island Association

The first thing to know about me, is that I’m passionate and committed to whatever I take on.  I’m driven to identify ways we can improve the quality of our lives and restore the reputation of our profession.  I am a father, a husband, a friend, a BIC, and frequently wear several hats a once.  My wife is an accomplished and successful Realtor® who supports us and affords me the opportunity to serve on all levels.  Over the past 9 years, I’ve served as Treasurer and consecutive terms as President for the Topsail Island Association of Realtors®.  I’m a proud graduate of William C. Bass Leadership Academy and have spent the last 6 years representing NC Realtors® (RVP, RPAC Treasurer, Professional Standards & Diversity Chair).  I’m honored to serve on my 2nd National Association of Realtors® committee as well as consecutive terms for Small Board Director.

I want to speak to this role as Treasurer and why it’s important to me.  I love finding the best possible solution in everything I do.  The NC Realtors® Budget & Finance committee was my 2nd state volunteer role.  I then served as Regional Vice President where I sat on the Executive committee and gained a better understanding of what impacts our budget.  I’ve had the privilege to be involved with the planning and approval for the annual budgets of NC Realtors®, NCRMLS, and the Topsail Island Association of Realtors®.  In 2024 I served as NC Regional MLS as Investment committee Chair and as Treasurer for our state RPAC committee.

Seeing the challenges we face, I’m confident my experience will serve as an asset to our members.  I want to thank you for taking the time to consider me for this role.  I would be honored to serve alongside other passionate Realtors®.

View a video message from Adam

Brett Bushnell, AHWD
Raleigh Regional Association

I am running to continue to serve on the Issues Mobilization Committee.  I have previously served on Issues Mobilization in 2021 and currently am serving a 2024-2025 term.  I have also served previously as Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS® president in 2021, Greater Chapel Hill Association of REALTORS® President in 2014, and NC REALTORS®  Regional Vice President in 2016.  I currently and have previously served on numerous committees at the local, state, and national association levels.  I have served for many years on my local and at the state level as a Board of Directors member. I am a long time proud RPAC investor currently at the Golden R Presidents Circle Level Hall of Fame. I previously served as an RPAC Trustee for Region 10. I have been recognized twice as REALTORS® Of  the Year by the Raleigh Regional and Chapel Hill Associations of REALTORS®. I am well versed in many issues regarding the protection of personal property rights and housing affordability on the local, state, and national levels including zoning ordinances, land transfer fees/taxes, school bond referendums, and others.  I will contribute to the Issues Mobilization Committee ensuring sound decision making while considering all requests the committee receives.  I ask for your consideration and would greatly appreciate your vote.

Miguel Carreno, ABR, AHWD, C2EX, CIPS
High Point Regional Association

My professional journey began as an Accountant, graduating from San Marcos University in Lima, Peru, where I held several management positions. I later advanced my career in the United States, working as a Mutual Fund Sr. Investment Operations Associate for Prudential Financial in Newark, NJ. These experiences enriched my expertise in finance, business strategy, and client services, laying a strong foundation for my transition into real estate.

Since earning my North Carolina real estate license in 2008, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, professionalism, and market knowledge, ensuring my clients have seamless and successful transactions.

I hold several prestigious professional designations, showcasing my dedication to staying at the forefront of the real estate industry:  ABR®, AHWD, C2EX, CIPS

In addition to serving my clients, I am actively involved in the real estate community through leadership roles and continuous education. My recent accomplishments include:

• 2025 Triad MLS Past President and Board Member
• 2024-2025 NAR® Safety Advisory Committee Member
• 2024 Triad MLS President
• 2023 Allen Tate Master Gold Circle Award
• 2018-2023 NC REALTORS® Legislative Committee Member
• 2022 HPRAR® Realtor of the Year

I have received numerous accolades throughout my career, including the Allen Tate Circle Awards, and have held leadership positions with the High Point Regional Association of REALTORS® and NC REALTORS® which include:

• 2022 Triad MLS Treasurer
• 2021-2022 HPRAR BOARD DIRECTOR
• 2014-2022 Allen Tate Master Circle Award
• 2021 NC REALTORS® Diversity Committee, MEMBER
• 2018 HPRAR®, PRESIDENT
• 2017 Allen Tate Chairman Circle Award
• 2017 NC REALTORS® Leadership Academy Graduated
• 2016 Central Carolina Regional Leadership Academy Graduated
• 2013 Class Of Rising Starts, from NCREALTORS®
• 2010 Rookie of the Year of the HPRAR®
  

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Madalyn Kunow, AHWD, C2EX
High Point Regional Association

As a former member of the NC REALTORS® Finance Committee, I appreciate the opportunity to be considered for election and ask for your support.  It would be my pleasure to continue to apply my knowledge and experience as an active and dedicated member of the committee.

I hold a BS in Accounting from the University of Tulsa and worked in the accounting field for 20 plus years in both the private and public sectors prior to becoming a REALTOR® in 2008.  Throughout my accounting career as well as during my tenure on various Boards, I have been responsible for every financial aspect of running a business.  Including, the preparation of and adherence to an annual budget.

During my seventeen-year Real Estate career, I have been a Member of the HPRAR Board of Directors and have held the offices of Director, Secretary/Treasurer Elect, Secretary/Treasurer, President-Elect and President.   Also Chairing the Finance, Member and Community Services, Government Affairs, MLS and Social Committees.  Through my work with these committees, I have played an integral part in planning and fund raising for such events as the Association’s Annual Golf Tournament, Picnic in the Park, and Amy Hedgecock’s NC REALTOR® President’s Reception in January 2018 during Vision Quest.

In addition to being on the HPRAR Board I am also on my neighborhood’s POA Board for James Landing.  Having been on this board for several years, I have held the office of Secretary.

I am also honored to be a graduate of the Leadership High Point class of 2020, served as the Chairperson in 2024 and continue to be on the steering committee.

In 2022, I became a major investor in RPAC.

Thank you again for your consideration of me for election to the Finance Committee.

Michael Wong, ABR, AHWD, SPS, MRP, RENE
Canopy REALTOR® Association

My name is Michael S. Wong, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for a second term on the 2026-27 NC Realtors® (NCR) Budget and Finance Committee. With over nine years of experience as a Realtor® combined with local association experience including four years on the Canopy Realtor® Association Board of Directors and nine years on the Audit Budget and Finance Committee. Additionally, I have served three years as a NCR Board of Director for Region 8.

Having the financial strength in our association is a key driver to helping Realtors® across our state help and serve the influx of immigrants. Financial transparency, accountability and trust is key to sound business decisions. Without it, we will not have the infrastructure in place for the ongoing growth in our state.

My business acumen coupled with sound financial expertise strongly qualifies me to continue to contribute to the NCR Budget and Finance Committee.  My education includes a BA and double Major in International Relations and Economics from Tufts University and le diplôme from L’insitut d’etudes politiques in Paris, France.

NC Realtors® needs leaders who understand analytics and financial stewardship in our ever-changing environment. We will drive the decisions of NCR that will serve as building blocks for our future.

My goals encompass a culture of transparency and timely financials to allow for better decisions for the future of our association.

I have called North Carolina my home for more than 15 years. My wife and four kids enjoy making memories together by traveling and trying new restaurants.

If you want to continue seeing NCR as an industry leader and identify with my goals, vote for me. I look forward to giving back to NCR and making a positive impact for our state association and its membership.

Kelly Marks, AHWD, ABR, CIPS, CRS, GRI
Greensboro Regional REALTORS® Association

I am an active Realtor® that lists and sells residential property, manage residential and commercial investment properties for my clients, and participate in the selling of commercial properties. I have been an active member of the Greensboro Regional Realtors Association and have served in various leadership positions since 2002 that includes President and Treasurer, and President of Triad MLS.

My NC Realtors® service includes serving as a RPAC Trustee, Regional Vice President, Treasurer, and 2021 President. Throughout the years I have served on numerous NCR committees including Professional Standards, Bylaws, Finance and Budget, Investment Advisory, Administrative, Legislative, Issues Mobilization, Risk Management, Realtors Partners, Executive Committee (2016-2022), NC REALTORS® Housing Foundation BOD, NC Homeowners Alliance BOD, and Service Corporation BOD.

My NAR career includes being a NAR Director for the past 10 years (2016-2025) and have served on the Business Issues Policy Committee, Federal Technology Policy Committee, Risk Management Committee including 2023 Chairman, and appointed to the Legal Action Committee – 3-year term (2025). I have served both as a State Political Coordinator (SPC) and a Federal Political Coordinator (FPC) and am a member of the Class of 2024 National Association of REALTORS®’ RPAC Hall of Fame.

I have always taken the opportunity to mentor and teach fellow Realtors what I have learned through my leadership experience. My interest in continuing to serve as a NAR Board member is to bring relevant information back to the members so that they can be relevant on real estate issues and to make an impact in helping them articulate their value proposition to their clients. As exhausting as this involvement sounds, I am constantly energized by the opportunity to continue to serve, learn, and lead. I would appreciate your vote.

Chester Bartlett, ABR, GRI
Carolina Smokies Association

I am honored and privileged to be asking for your vote as NAR Director, Small Boards. I’ve had to opportunity to serve as NAR Director Small Boards during 2023 as the first inaugural Director.

Our industry has faced many challenges and will continue to face challenges as we move forward.  My varied experience on a local, state, and national level has provided me a balanced approach to have a positive and common sense approach.

During the past 20 years, I’ve had the opportunity to serve my Association as President, State Director, Treasurer, and RPAC Chair.   Additionally, I’ve served NC REALTORS® on the Professional Standards Committee, ByLaws Committee, and Legislative Committee.  These roles have given me a well-rounded knowledge leading me to serve as Director, Small Boards and on the Second Home and Vacation Rentals Committee for the National Association of REALTORS®.

Miguel Carreno, ABR, AHWD, C2EX, CIPS
High Point Regional Association

My professional journey has been shaped by diverse leadership roles in both the corporate and real estate sectors. Beginning my career as an Accountant after graduating from San Marcos University in Lima, Peru, I honed my expertise in financial management and operational strategy through senior positions, including my tenure as a Mutual Fund Sr. Investment Operations Associate for Prudential Financial in Newark, NJ. These experiences instilled in me a deep understanding of economic trends, business strategy, risk assessment, market analysis, and client services —skills that have seamlessly translated into my real estate career.

Since earning my NC real estate license in 2008, I have dedicated myself to excellence, professionalism, and the empowerment of both clients and industry peers. My commitment to continuous education is reflected in the professional designations I hold, including ABR®, AHWD, C2EX, CIPS. Beyond serving clients, I have actively contributed to the real estate community through leadership roles at the local, state, and national levels. These include my tenure as 2024 Triad MLS President, 2018 HPRAR President, and my service on the 2024-2025 NAR® Safety Advisory Committee.

My decision to seek a position on the NAR Board of Directors stems from my passion for advocacy, professional development, and advancing industry standards. Through my leadership roles, I have worked to promote ethical practices, diversity, and housing initiatives that strengthen our profession and communities. I firmly believe my financial acumen, leadership experience, and dedication to member engagement position me as a valuable voice in shaping policies that support REALTORS® nationwide.

I am eager to contribute my expertise, collaborate with fellow industry leaders, and ensure that NAR continues to drive innovation, market integrity, and member success. It would be an honor to serve in this capacity, and I look forward to the opportunity to make a lasting impact.

View a video message from Miguel

REGION 1
Ben Myers, ABR, C2EX, e-PRO
Washington Beaufort County Board

Drawing from a rich family legacy in real estate, I take immense pride in serving as a third-generation REALTOR®. From my grandfather’s company in Falls Church, VA, to my parent’s company in Smith Mountain Lake, VA, I was destined to be a REALTOR®.

Homeschooling in high school provided me with an early introduction to real estate, and at 18, I earned my Virginia real estate license. I ventured into the resort market at Smith Mountain Lake, VA, honing my skills and passion for the industry.

In 2013 I moved to Wilmington, NC. There, I joined Laney Rentals, eventually becoming the Property Manager and Broker-in-charge. Over four years in property management, I gained valuable insights into the real estate market, assisting property owners in maximizing investments while guiding new home buyers.

In 2017, my journey led my wife and me to “Little” Washington. I served as President of the Washington-Beaufort County Board of REALTORS® in 2023. Now settled in New Bern, NC, with my wife, Emily, our son, Lucas, and dog, Oakley, I consider this community my home. Currently, I have partnered with my mother, Carol Myers, to operate Myers Realty, Inc. We offer comprehensive services to buyers, sellers, and property owners, excelling in listings, sales, and both vacation and long-term property management from Wilmington to Little Washington.

In 2024, I had the distinct honor of graduating from the NC REALTORS® William C. Bass Leadership Academy. This achievement further solidified my commitment to serving our real estate industry with integrity and dedication.

As your Region 1 Vice President candidate, I am committed to leveraging my extensive background and dedication to serve Region 1 and advocate for our collective success in real estate.

VIEW A VIDEO MESSAGE FROM BEN

REGION 2
Bob Bates, RSPS
Cape Fear REALTORS®

Truly excited to run for Regional Vice President (RVP) for NCR Region 2. My journey has always been about building strong connections, supporting others, and bringing people together. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful collaboration can be, and I’m eager to bring that energy and dedication to this role.

Throughout my Realtor career, I’ve been passionate about serving and working to make things better for our industry. I strive to lead with empathy and a genuine desire to make a difference. I believe that leadership is about bringing out the best in others, and I’ve seen the amazing things that can happen when people come together with a shared vision.

My experiences in chairing various committees have taught me a lot about navigating challenges, finding creative solutions, and most importantly, staying grounded in the values of trust, respect, and open communication. I truly believe that by empowering others and creating an environment where people feel supported, we can accomplish great things together.

As your RVP, my goal is to foster a connected, and vibrant Region 2. I want to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and that we tackle our challenges as a united Region.

I’m asking for your vote for NC REALTORS® Region 2 RVP.

REGION 5
Marvette Artis, ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES
Greensboro Regional REALTORS®  Association

I am Marvette Artis and I’m excited to run for the position of NC REALTORS® Region 5 Regional Vice President (RVP).  Authentic, accessible, a proven leader, strategic planner, collaborator, and trusted advocate who gives unconditionally of my time, talents, and resources… describe my servant heart.  A native of Washington, North Carolina, I am proud to call Greensboro, North Carolina, home for over 40 years.  As an active, dedicated, and passionate North Carolina REALTOR® since 2014,  I am a committed community leader, who is inclusive, listens, engages, and takes action to ensure our voices are heard on all levels.  If elected, I will strongly support and encourage associations in Region 5 to grow and thrive in an ever-evolving industry.

My experience and leadership roles on the local, state, and national level include but are not limited to 2024 President and 2022 Treasurer of The Greensboro Regional REALTORS® Association; 2024 RPAC Region 5 Trustee; 2022 Risk Management Chair, 2021 Risk Management Vice Chair, and 2018 graduate of the William C Bass Leadership Academy of North Carolina REALTORS® (NCR); 2024 graduate of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Leadership Academy and serve on the NAR RPAC Federal Disbursements Committee.

Being a proud RPAC major investor since 2017 and an active and involved NC REALTOR® champion has prepared me to consistently demonstrate enthusiasm, empower REALTORS®, and understand the challenges and need for continuous professional growth.  Our members are the heartbeat of NC REALTORS® Region 5 and I am committed to creatively uplifting all.  As your NC REALTORS® Region 5 RVP, I will diligently work hard alongside associations by representing, supporting, motivating, and dynamically providing communications.

I humbly ask for YOUR SUPPORT and more importantly YOUR VOTE. Every Vote Matters!

Together, LET’S VOTE MARVETTE ARTIS YOUR NC REALTORS® Region 5 Regional Vice President!

VIEW A VIDEO MESSAGE FROM MARVETTE

REGION 5
Samantha Cole, AHWD, C2EX
Mid Carolina Regional Association

Since beginning my real estate career in 2015, I have dedicated myself to serving the REALTOR® community with integrity, advocacy, and a commitment to excellence. I am currently the Broker-in-Charge of Coldwell Banker Advantage in Southern Pines, Team Leader for SCG Real Estate Solutions, and owner of La Belle Vie Property Management. Through these roles, I focus on education, mentorship, and the sustainability of our industry by emphasizing honesty, advocacy, and innovative solutions.

I have proudly served the REALTOR® community through three years on the Association Board and two years on the MLS Board, where I held the roles of President-Elect and President. These experiences have enabled me to make meaningful contributions to advancing REALTOR® priorities at the local level. Additionally, I am a graduate of the William C. Bass Leadership Academy and the Central Carolina Regional Leadership Academy. These programs have enhanced my leadership skills, deepened my commitment to professional standards, and equipped me to advocate for public policies that benefit our members and the communities we serve.

I am passionate about expanding access to homeownership for all. Inspired by my own childhood housing journey, I understand the transformative power of education, financial support, and advocacy in creating stable and thriving communities.

As a candidate, I bring a vision for inclusivity, collaboration, and professional growth for our members. I am committed to empowering REALTORS® by addressing their evolving needs, providing exceptional resources, and ensuring our collective voice remains strong in shaping the future of real estate.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunities this industry has afforded my family and me, and I am excited about every chance to give back. I would be honored to have your support for Region 5 Regional Vice President as we work together for a stronger future for NC REALTORS®.

REGION 7
Chris Puckett, ABR, GRI, SFR, SRES
Central Carolina Association

My desire to serve as NCR Region 7 RVP comes from my recent graduation from the William C. Bass Leadership Academy.  The Academy exposed me to how North Carolina REALTORS® operates and serves.  This exposure helped me realize where I should serve.

As Central Carolina Association of REALTORS® 2024 President, I have had to lead through unprecedented times in our industry.  I felt like those experiences have shown me how to lead during a crisis while continuing to move your agenda forward.  These experiences helped me prepare for my next step in my leadership journey.

During one of our Leadership Academy lunches, I had the privilege to eat with Asa Fleming from Raleigh Regional Association of REALTORS®. He said “As a leader we help people crawl before they walk, walk before you run, run before you fly but leaders are expected to do more.  They carry you before you crawl.” My wish is to continue to fly while I carry others into NCR leadership and beyond!

REGION 8
Allen Dargins, ABR, C2EX, CRS, PSA, SRES, WHS
Canopy REALTOR® Association

My name is Allen D. Dargins and I desire to be a Regional Vice President for Region 8.  I am a native of Charlotte, North Carolina and a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University with a B.S. in Chemistry.  I am analytical by nature, overly optimistic, and I am a proud member of Canopy Realtor Association, where I have been an ACTIVE Realtor over 20+ years.  My professional designations include ABR, CRS, WHS, C2EX, SRES, PSA, MSP.

I am a graduate of Canopy’s Leadership Class of 2008.  My commitment and volunteer service to Canopy has allowed me to serve in various elected and appointed positions.  Current positions include Government Affairs Chair, RPAC Trustee, REBIC Executive Committee, Canopy MLS Board of Directors. Past local positions include: Secretary on Canopy Realtor® Association Executive Committee.  Canopy Realtor® Association Board of Directors, Canopy MLS Board of Directors, Canopy Housing Foundation Board of Directors, Canopy MLS Advisory Group (Past Chair), Diversity and Inclusion Alliance, Diversity and Inclusion African American Sub council (Past Chair), Realtors® Care Day (2015-2021 Site Captain), Professional Standards and  Leadership Selection Committee

I also have the privilege of serving the state Association, NC Realtors as well as the National Association of Realtors, NAR.  At NC Realtors, I currently serve on the Membership Benefits Committee and as a Director for Region 8.  At NAR, I have served as a Director for Region 4 and member of the Leading-Edge Advisory Group.

I have been married to Kelly for 25 years and we have 2 amazing children, Micah (21) and Mackenzie (12).  I am active in my church, East Stonewall A.M.E. Zion, where I am a Trustee and Chaplain.  My hobbies consist of family time, golf, social gatherings and bourbon collecting.

REGION 10
Sharon Gupton, CIPS
Raleigh Regional Association

From the first NC REALTORS® event (Vision Quest 2017) that I attended, I wanted to attend more NC REALTORS® events, be more involved, network with others in NC REALTORS® & give back.  The base of involvement that I’ve had at Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors®, has provided me the knowledge, experience & interest to be an NC REALTORS® Regional Vice President.

When I attend the NC REALTORS® & NAR® events throughout the year, for many year now, I visit every committee meeting that time allows, as well as the events.  I gain so much, & want to give back for the value of the associations, as well as for others to encourage their involvement.

Currently, I’m the RRAR® President, a 10,000+ association, covering Wake & Harnett counties.  In addition to Chairing the Board of Directors & Executive committee (& Legal Action committee if activated), I serve on the Personnel Committee (3rd year) & DMLS Stakeholders Council (2nd year).  I value the relationships we have with other associations, especially nearby JCAR, OCHAR & Durham, as well as many other community groups like the town Chambers (of the 12 municipalities in Wake).  I’ve served RRAR as President-Elect, Treasurer/Secretary, Chair of committees (Strategic Planning, RPAC, Finance, GPIC), member of 9 committees (including Global, CEO Search, & Professional Development) & 1 council (Top Producers).

I’ve also served on other non-profit Boards, such as Realtor® Giving Network, Wake Education Partnership & many individual public parent school boards.

My experiences & interest led me to get more involved at the state level, as NC REALTORS® Director since 2022, including serving on the current Board.  I’ve started this year on NAR®’s Board for a 2 year term.

I would be honored to serve as NC REALTORS® Regional Vice President.

REGION 2
Robert Percesepe
Brunswick County Association

With a career spanning four decades in the Real Estate industry, Bob’s background spans real estate sales, property management, site development,  company franchising, and author of real estate resource books. Bob is the Broker/ Owner  of Blue Chip Real Estate, a virtual boutique real estate company based in Southport, North Carolina and the President of Blue Chip Transaction Services, as well as President of Homelendia Mortgage American Dream, pioneering the simple concept of “Experiencing World Class Service”

He is currently serving as the 2025 Past President for The Brunswick County Association of REALTORS in North Carolina and is a Manager on the North Carolina Regional Multiple Listing Service, an NC REALTORS RPAC Trustee.  He also serves as The President of The NC REALTORS Service Corp and sits on NC REALTORS Budget and Finance Committee.

A graduate of The Masters Sales Societies Speakers Academy and New York State Association of REALTORS® Leadership Academy, Bob also has a designation as Senior Real Estate Specialist , Strategic Pricing Specialist, and has a designation as a Resort and Second Home Specialist, and several other NAR designations.  He is also a member of The Luxury Home Marketing Institute.

REGION 3
Erica Sasser
Goldsboro-Wayne County Association

I am Erica Sasser, and I am honored to submit my application to serve as Regional Trustee for Region 3.

Advocacy has always been a cornerstone of my career. Before becoming a REALTOR® in 2015, I worked with the American Cancer Society and the Arthritis Foundation—organizations that value advocacy as much as fundraising. Since then, I have been an active member of the Goldsboro-Wayne County Association of REALTORS®, consistently prioritizing advocacy to support our mission.

In 2023, I began serving as a director on our local board of directors, contributing to the rebranding committee and leading as Chair of the newly formed DEI committee. The following year, I was elected President-Elect and took on leadership roles as RPAC Chair, DEI Chair, and member of the Legislative and Bylaws Committee. In 2025, I am serving as President of our local board while actively participating in all our committees.

My involvement with NC REALTORS® has been equally rewarding. I eagerly participated in my first Vision Quest, attending multiple Committee Meetings to gain valuable insights. I was honored to be selected to serve on the Economic Development Committee in 2025. Additionally, as a member of PMD, I am a dedicated advocate for property rights and am committed to advancing our industry and Region.

Serving as a Regional Trustee would provide a unique opportunity to deepen my knowledge and strengthen relationships within our Region while advancing our mission and the interests of our state. Thank you for considering my application.

REGION 4
Randolph Voller
Orange Chatham Association

I am Randolph Voller and I want to serve Region 4 as Trustee. Team sports and music have played an important part of my life and have taught me how to be a team player and sublimate ego for team goals, team success and a band with a good rhythm section.

If honored with your vote,  I will work with the team to make sweet music and achieve success with the RPAC Regional Trustees. I have been a licensed broker for 32 years and my firm, VRC, Ltd,  has been in business since 1995.

We specialize in land brokerage and development and I am also a member of RLI.

As we all know, “talking the talk” is good, but “walking the walk” is better and to that end I am currently a CrystalR and President’s Circle Member as well as the RPAC Trustee for the Orange/Chatham Association of Realtors.

Last year we achieved the “Triple Crown” and I was honored to receive the “Organizational Service Award” from the Orange/Chatham Association of Realtors.

This year I am currently the incoming President of the Orange/Chatham Association of Realtors; a board member of Hive, MLS; and a member of the advisory team of the Coalition for the National Infrastructure Bank.

I have also served as the Mayor of Pittsboro for four terms and host a weekly radio show on WCHL-FM called “On the Porch” where we have interviewed current President John McPherson and past president Tony Harrington.

I currently serve on the Legislative Committee of the North Carolina Association of Realtors and have previously provided leadership on several local, regional, and state boards.

I am also a 2010 Marshall Memorial Fellow (GMF), Leadership Triangle Goodmon Fellow and in 2017 was awarded the Goodmon Award for Community Service.

REGION 7
Chad Simpson, C2EX
Gaston Association

With a passion for service and nearly a decade of real estate experience, I’m honored to run for the Region 7 Trustee position.

As President of the Gaston Association of REALTORS®, I’ve seen firsthand how strong leadership and advocacy can elevate our profession and strengthen our communities. I’m proud to be a 2024 graduate of the Central Carolinas Regional Leadership Academy, where I collaborated with peers across our region and sharpened the leadership skills needed to make a meaningful impact. I also serve on our local Finance Committee and previously on the Government Affairs Committee.

Last year, I led our association’s trip to Raleigh for Legislative Day, bringing 40 agents and affiliates to advocate for property rights and REALTOR® interests. I currently serve on the NC REALTORS® Risk Management Committee, helping identify industry challenges and recommend strategies to protect our members and their clients.

My commitment to service extends beyond real estate. For six years, I’ve volunteered with Meals on Wheels, ensuring seniors in our community receive the support they need. Giving back is at the core of who I am, and I believe that spirit of service should guide our leadership at the state level. My journey into real estate was built on a foundation in retail leadership, where I developed skills in customer service, operations, and team development. That background fuels my mission to ensure every REALTOR® has the tools, education, and support needed to succeed in today’s market.

As your Region 7 Trustee, I’ll be a strong voice for our local associations and a committed advocate for professional development, property rights, and the REALTOR® brand across North Carolina. I live in Belmont with my family and am proud to call Region 7 home.

REGION 7
Michelle Steeley, C2EX
Central Carolina Association

I am Michelle Steeley and I am highly committed to excellence in everything I do. Prior to starting my career as a REALTOR®. I proudly served as an officer with Rowan County Sherriff’s Department. I have served on my local board as a committee member for the community outreach, legislative and education committees, a board director, President-Elect, President (2023) and immediate past present. I currently serve as a State Director and am the local associations RPAC/Legislative chair. I am also currently serving on the communication committee.

As a lifelong North Carolinian  I am a fierce and passionate protector of homeowners and their rights. I believe in RPAC, what it stands for, and will help carry their mission on into the future. I look forward to continuing to serve, protect and support the REALTOR brand, our state and our local communities. I will proudly serve as the RPAC region 7 trustee if elected.

REGION 8
Patrick McDowell, C2EX
Canopy REALTOR® Association

I have been a REALTOR for 24 years now and have served my community and my association many times.

I was the Haywood County BOR President, the Haywood County MLS President and served on both boards for several years.  Since our Association and MLS merged with Canopy I have served on the Association Board of Directors, the Canopy RPAC committee and the MLS Board of directors.  I have served as a representative for both Region 9 and Region 8 through the years.  I also have served my community by being a Panning board member for the Town of Waynesville for 18 years and Chairman for 15 years.  I also served on the Haywood County Planning Board for 12 years helping to protect land owner’s rights.

I look forward to serving in a new area while learning and communicating with my fellow REALTORS®.

REGION 9
Randall Blankenship, AHWD, C2EX, GRI
Land of the Sky Association

As a dedicated and passionate Realtor with a strong history of volunteerism within the industry, I am excited to announce my candidacy for the Region 9 RPAC Trustee position. My name is G. Randall Blankenship, and I have a deep commitment to the Realtor Party and the vital work it does.

Throughout my career, I have been actively involved in various Realtor associations, serving on important committees and boards at the national, state, and local levels. From my time on the National Association of Realtors Governance PAG to my leadership roles within the North Carolina Association of Realtors and Land of the Sky Association of Realtors, I have demonstrated my dedication to advancing the interests of Realtors and advocating for our industry.

I am a graduate of the NCR & NAR Leadership Academy’s and have served on numerous committees, including RPAC fundraising, legislative, and diversity committees. I have also held leadership roles such as Chairman of the NC Realtor PAC Trustees and President of the Land of the Sky Association of Realtors.

I believe that my extensive experience and proven track record of leadership make me well-suited to serve as the Region 9 RPAC Trustee. I am committed to working tirelessly to support Realtors and promote our industry’s interests at the regional level. I hope to have the honor of earning your vote and the opportunity to serve as your trustee. Thank you for your consideration.

REGION 10
Tim McBrayer, ABR, CIPS, CLHMS, CRS, EcoBroker, e-PRO, GREEN, GRI, MRP, PSA, SFR, SRES
Raleigh Regional Association

Member of the Raleigh Regional Association of Realtors for 18 years, an RRAR Director for 6 years, Secretary/Treasurer, President-Elect and was the 2024 President. Served on the Government Affairs Committee, Finance, Strategic Planning and as Immediate Past President I am chair of the Personnel and Leadership Identification and Development committees. I served as President of the Realtor Foundation of Wake County (now RGN) in 2018.

I’ve been an NCR Director for several years and this year is the second of a two-year term as an NCR Regional VP. I have also served on several NC Realtors committees: Legislative, DEI, Communications 5 years as a Director of the NC Realtors Housing Foundation.

Regarding RPAC, I served as the RRAR RPAC Chair in 2020 and 2023. A few years ago, I served as an RPAC Trustee for Region 10, and I am serving out the 2025 term of RPAC Vice-Chair Jon McBride. In 2016 I became a Major Investor and became a Platinum R President’s Circle Hall of Fame Major Investor in 2023 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame last year. I was given the1st NC Realtors Liza York RPAC Volunteer of the Year Award (2021) and the 2023 RPAC Chairman’s Award. I was appointed by the RRAR Board in February to serve again as an RPAC Trustee from 2026-2028 pending NCR BOD approval.

My pledge as a 2025 Trustee was to bring 10 new Major Investors. As of 3/22/25 I have already generated the equivalent of 8 new Major Investors: 5 Sterling Rs and 1 Crystal R.

I am confident I will be able to continue to bring more Major Investors to RPAC and increase participation and I look forward to having that opportunity if approved.  I’m also an SPC and FPC.