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The Empire Board of Realtists 64th Annual Scholarship & Awards Gala

Welcome to the 64th Annual Empire Board of Realtists Scholarship & Awards Gala presented by the Empire Real Estate Board Foundation!!! This highly anticipated signature event is the highlight of the year for Atlanta Realtists and this year will be spectacular! This year's event is extra special because this historic organization is celebrating its 85th Anniversary! This Souvenir Journal is a keepsake document that reflects the spirit of REALTIST! Enjoy the photos, history, and bios of the keynote speakers, distinguished participants, Realtist movers and shakers and, our shining stars of the evening, our scholarship awardees! We look forward to your attendance, membership and partnership and thank you for your commitment to Democracy in Housing!

Welcome to the 64th Annual Empire Board of Realtists Scholarship & Awards Gala presented by the Empire Real Estate Board Foundation!!! This highly anticipated signature event is the highlight of the year for Atlanta Realtists and this year will be spectacular! This year's event is extra special because this historic organization is celebrating its 85th Anniversary! This Souvenir Journal is a keepsake document that reflects the spirit of REALTIST! Enjoy the photos, history, and bios of the keynote speakers, distinguished participants, Realtist movers and shakers and, our shining stars of the evening, our scholarship awardees! We look forward to your attendance, membership and partnership and thank you for your commitment to Democracy in Housing!

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PRESENTS THE

th ANNUAL

SCHOLARSHIP

AWARDS

GREEN, BLACK & GOLD

12.14.24

ATLANTA MARRIOTT

MARQUIS

265 PEACHTREE CTR AVE NE

ATLANTA, GA 30303


CONGRATULATIONS

EMPIRE BOARD OF REALTISTS &

SCHOLARS!

64 YEARS OF CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE

& 85 YEARS OF FIGHTING FOR

“DEMOCRACY IN HOUSING”


NAREB

NATIONAL

GREETINGS

1


NAREB

REGIONAL

GREETINGS

National Association of Real Estate Brokers. Inc.

Region VI - AL, FL & GA

November 7, 2024

Greetings Members and Supporters,

It is an honor to join you in celebrating the Empire Board of

Realtists, Inc.’s 64th Annual Awards and Scholarship Gala,

a momentous occasion that marks 85 years of impactful

service and advocacy. As a Past President and secondgeneration

Realtist, I take immense pride in EBR’s enduring

commitment to “Democracy in Housing” and its

transformative efforts to advance equity and opportunity in real estate.

Tonight, we celebrate a rich legacy of leadership, honor those who have strengthened

our mission, and uplift phenomenal scholars who embody the promise of our future.

EBR’s unwavering dedication continues to inspire and elevate the real estate industry

and our communities, ensuring access to homeownership and wealth-building

opportunities for all.

Congratulations to the entire leadership team and gala committee on reaching this

remarkable milestone. Together, let us continue to lead with purpose and create a

lasting legacy of progress and empowerment.

With gratitude and pride,

Karen C. Johnson

Regional Vice President, NAREB Region VI

Past President, Empire Board of Realtists, Inc.

2

“The Premiere Network of Black Real Estate Professionals”

9821 Greenbelt Road - Suite 309 - Lanham, MD 20706


EBR

PRESIDENT

GREETINGS

December 14, 2024

Many Hands - One Mission

Greetings,

Welcome to the Empire Board of Realtists' presentation of its 64th Annual Scholarship

Gala. We have gathered this evening to acknowledge and honor our future leaders ~ our

youth scholars. Join us in publicly saluting their hard work, demonstrated skills, pursuit

for higher level education and their expressed desire to make this world a better place.

Through our scholarship program, we aim to empower the next generation of leaders and

change-makers who will continue to uplift our communities. Purposely, we are sharing

that "Success is Fueled by Persistence and a Positive Outlook" as they embark into their

next level experiences. Congratulations to our Scholarship Awardees!

t

Additionally, we have the privilege to celebrate an important milestone for every Empire

Board of Realtists ~ Eighty-Five (85) years of unwavering service to the housing needs of

citizens and the many communities. By grace and mercy, we still stand united as we

promote our mantra of "Democracy In Housing". Reflecting on nearly nine decades of

commitment, we recognize the vital/essential role that education plays in fostering change

and creating opportunities for individuals and families and we remain committed to the

charge.

Kindly accept my sincere "Thank you" for joining us this evening and for your support in

advancing our mission, initiatives and programs. Together, with Many Hands Focusing on

One Mission we can continue to make a difference as we work towards a brighter future

for all. We thank our Partners for your continued support and believing in our mission as

we work together to continue to build and grow communities.

In closing, It is a Great Time to be a Realist! Enjoy the Gala!

In the Realtists spirit,

Archie Emerson

Archie Emerson

President

Empire Board of Realtists

3


EBR BOARD

CHAIR

GREETINGS

Many Hands - One Mission

4


GALA CHAIR

GREETINGS

December 14, 2024

Many Hands - One Mission

Dear Members and Supporters of the Empire Board of Realtists,

As I reflect on the incredible legacy of the Empire Board of Realtists, I am filled with profound

gratitude and admiration for the countless lives you have touched and the enduring impact you

have made in our communities. It is an honor to address you not only as a proud Past President

and Past Regional Vice President but also as this year’s Gala Chair, standing in awe of the

milestones we are celebrating.

For 85 remarkable years, the Empire Board of Realtists has been a steadfast champion for

democracy and housing, serving as a beacon of hope and a voice for fairness in a landscape

often fraught with inequity. Your unwavering commitment to protecting the rights of all people

and fostering access to housing has been nothing short of transformative. You have set a gold

standard for what it means to serve with purpose, passion, and perseverance.

And then, there is your extraordinary dedication to shaping the future. For 64 years, you have

made dreams of higher education a reality for underprivileged students, empowering them to

break barriers, pursue excellence, and create generational change through scholarships. This is

not just an investment in education—it is an investment in hope, in potential, and in a brighter

tomorrow.

Your work exemplifies what it means to leave a legacy of love and action. You have shown us

that when we come together with a shared vision and unwavering determination, we can

transform challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality.

As we celebrate these incredible milestones, let us also renew our commitment to the mission

and values that have carried us this far. Together, we will continue to uplift, inspire, and create

opportunities for those who need it most, ensuring that the next generation of leaders has a

foundation to stand on.

Congratulations, Empire Board of Realtists, on 85 years of advocacy and 64 years of

championing education. Thank you for all that you do to change lives, shape communities, and

fight for equity. It is truly an honor to be part of this legacy.

With deep gratitude and admiration,

Sharpn Henry

Sharon Henry

Gala Chair

Past President

Past Regional Vice President

5


WOMEN’S

COUNCIL

GREETINGS

December 14, 2024

women’s council

of empire board of realtists

Dear Empire Board of Realtists,

As the President of the Women's Council of Empire Board of Realtists, I am both

honored and excited to join you in celebrating the incredible milestone of the 85th

Anniversary of the Empire Board of Realtists. This is truly a momentous occasion, and

it is a privilege to stand alongside all of you as we reflect on the years of leadership,

community service, and dedication that have shaped this organization.

This year’s scholarship banquet is especially heartwarming, as we celebrate the

accomplishments of the remarkable young individuals who are being honored with

scholarships. It is inspiring to see these bright futures being supported, and I am

confident they will continue to build upon the legacy of excellence that the Empire

Board represents. I am excited to witness the success of these future leaders and look

forward to their contributions to the real estate industry and beyond.

I would also like to take a moment to recognize the exceptional leadership of Madam

Archie Emerson. Under her guidance, the Empire Board of Realtists has thrived and

made significant strides in supporting the real estate community. Madam Emerson has

truly demonstrated what it means to lead with passion, purpose, and integrity, and I

commend her for her outstanding service as president.

On behalf of the Women's Council of Empire Board of Realtists, I extend my heartfelt

congratulations to the Empire Board for its 85th anniversary and for all the amazing

achievements we continue to accomplish together. I am excited for what the future

holds and look forward to our continued success and collaboration.

Sincerely,

Tori Nunley

Tori Nunley

President

Women's Council of Empire Board of Realtists

6


GOVERNOR’S

GREETINGS

7


REAL ESTATE

COMMISSIONER

GREETINGS

Mr. Lynn Dempsey, Commissioner

Georgia Real Estate Commission

Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board

Suite 1000 International Tower

Atlanta, Georgia 30334

December 14, 2024

To the Attendees of the 64th Annual EREB Foundation Scholarship & Awards Gala - EREB first

organized in 1939 and is this year celebrating 85 years of Democracy in Housing!

What an honor to be able to welcome my friends at the Empire Board of Realtists, Inc., as they

welcome distinguished guests, tonight’s honorees, their families, and other attendees! From the

moment I was blessed to take on the role of Real Estate Commissioner for the State of Georgia,

the Realtists have made me feel at home whenever Ihave met with you and witnessed the work your

organization has done to grow our community and make sure opportunity was increased for all.

The scholarships are a great blessing to those who will receive them tonight and I know you will

continue your valuable service to the great State of Georgia.

I hope for you a very successful event and I think the Empire Board of Realtists for organzating

this event. Best wishes for an enjoyable gala!

8


STATE OF

GEORGIA

GREETINGS

December 14, 2024

Greetings,

I am pleased to welcome each of you to the Empire Board of Realtists 64th Annual Awards

and Scholarship Gala. This event recognizes real estate professionals who have excelled in

the real estate industry as well as business and community leaders who have made a

difference uplifting the community.

It is my pleasure to commend President Archie Emerson, the Executive Team, Gala

Chairperson, Mrs. Sharon Henry, and the Gala Committee for their efforts in planning this

outstanding program. I also applaud all the members of the Empire Board of Realtists for

celebrating 85 years of pursuing your mission of fighting for “Democracy in Housing”! I

have been blessed to witness the phenomenal work of Realtists in the realm of Fair Housing,

Consumer Education, Financial Literacy, Homebuyer Workshops, and assisting individuals

and families realize the American dream of homeownership.

I would also like to acknowledge that proceeds from this event are presented to deserving

students pursuing careers in real estate.

Again it is an honor to welcome you to the Empire Board of Realtists’ Scholarship &

Awards Gala. On behalf of the citizens of the 44th Senate District of Georgia, I extend my

best wishes for a fun and successful event!

Sincerely,

9


COUNTY

DIGNITARY

GREETINGS

Dr. AliciaAnderson-Henry

10


COUNTY

DIGNITARY

GREETINGS

11


CITY OF

ATLANTA

GREETINGS

12


Archie Emerson

President

Jeffrey Hicks

Board Chair

Marvetta Bozeman

President Elect

Tiffany Boazman

Secretary

Leila Gill

Financial Secretary

Cedric Matheny

1st Vice President

Tawanda Hanks

Assistant Secretary

Vivian Lyons

Chaplain

Latikia Archuleta

2nd Vice President

Shaniqua Covert

Treasurer

Dr. Barbara Campbell

Parliamentarian

Sharon Anderon

3rd Vice President

Terri Copeland

Assistant Treasurer

Michele Calloway

Sergeant at Arms

O

F

F

I

C

E

R

S

Lynn McCray

Board Member at Large

Thaddeus Dawson

Board Member at Large

Gail Davenport 13

Salesperson Appointee


A

F

F

I

L

I

A

T

E

O

F

F

I

C

E

R

S

Marlon Day

President

National Society of Real Estate

Appraisers, Inc. (NSREA)

Tori Nunley

President

Women’s Council

of EBR

WOMEN'S COUNCIL OF

EBR

GOING PLACES

Michele Calloway

United Developers Council

(UDC)

Victor Collins

President

Young Realtist Division

14


2024

GALA COMMITTEE

CHAIRWOMAN

Sharon Henry

CO-CHAIRS

Latika Archuletta

Sean Dacey

SUB-COMMITTEES

SCHOLARSHIP

Shaniqua Covert

Audrey Milam

AUDIO VISUAL

Ted Cummings

PHOTOGRAPHY

Allison Murphy

Jeff Murphy

DECOR

Annette Henderson

COURTESY

Tiffany Boazman

Shelly-Ann Campbell

Tanya Ess-Young

Leila Gill

Cherryl Harris

Janine Hunter

Tori Nunley

Xavier Nunley

Jennifer Sampson

Joann Smith

Shatima Tankson

SOUVENIR JOURNAL

Jill Harrison

15


OUR HISTORY

HOW WE BEGAN

The Empire Real Estate Board Inc. (EREB) was organized in 1939 by seven real estate

brokers who were dissatisfied with the housing conditions in Atlanta for Black people.

Additionally, they were unhappy with the conditions for Black real estate practitioners,

and were denied membership in the REALTORS trade organization. The Founding

Members: W.H. Aiken, John G. Allen, O. T. Bell, Wendell Cunningham, Roger

Henderson, J.R. Wilson, Jr. and N. D. Jones. With the 1950's came many challenges,

changes, new memberships and accomplishments, which occurred under the

administration of Q.V. Williamson who was elected President In 1954. It was during the

mid-1950‘s that EREB opened its doors to the professional involvement of women.

Mrs. Nina King Miller was elected Treasurer and was the first female to hold an office.

She was the only officer to maintain the same position for ten consecutive years.

16


HISTORY CONTINUED...

OUR FIRST BANQUET

The mid 1950's spawned the birth of EREB’s first Awards and Installation Banquet,

chaired by W.L. (Bill) Calloway. Subsequently, at each annual banquet the

“Distinguished Service Awards” are presented to outstanding community leaders for

meritorious achievements. The first recipient of this award was the late E. M. Martin,

Vice President and Secretary of Atlanta Life Insurance Company. In addition, members

of EREB who have contributed outstanding service and professionalism in the real estate

industry are presented such awards as "Realtist of the Year”, "Broker of the Year" and

"Salesperson of the Year.

ACHIEVEMENTS

The late 1950's brought about the innovation of Urban Renewal. EREB embarked upon

the effort to educate it’s membership and inform the public of the concepts and

complexities of the Urban Renewal program. Additionally, EREB served as succor to the

public by being a financial source of "Bail Bond" for the Civil Rights Protesters (Sit-ins).

In the midst of the tumultuous 1960’s, EREB revised its constitution, increased

membership, organized a non-profit corporation for participation in the 221-Housing

program , gained financial status, and instituted educational programs, which

accentuated its public relations through the news media.

W. L. Calloway was the first Black to be elected as an officer of Central Atlanta Progress.

Harold A. Dawson was the first Black to be appointed to the Georgia Real Estate

Commission (GREC). EREB was host to the NAREB National Convention in 1971 and

1977. EREB fought and defeated the DeKalb County Sign Ordinance prohibiting the

placement of "For Sale" signs in yards. Legal counsel for EREB in fighting this sign

ordinance was Allied member, Attorney J. Wyatt, who was later elected as the first Black

County Commissioner.

The first professional quarterly newsletter was created and initiated by Barbara L. Clay

which she later revised in 1991. The EREB Training Center was organized to prepare

students for the Georgia Real Estate Examination as a result of special efforts of W. C.

Ponder, Dorothy Kelly, Otis L. Thorpe, Chris Dobbins, Willie Ware, and Larry

Cameron. Otis L. Thorpe was appointed to the National Advisory Committee for the

Minority Business Enterprises; the Housing Appeals Board; the Policy Review

Committee of the Central Atlanta Progress; and later, the first Black to be appointed as

an assessor of the Atlanta-Fulton County Joint Board of Tax Assessors, and elected as

Chairman. Brady Barnett, Jr. was appointed first Black VA Appraiser in the Southeast.

17


HISTORY CONTINUED...

He was also appointed to the Board of Aldermen by Mayor Sam Massell. In 2002, Brady

Barnett, Jr. was appointed as Chairman of the Fulton County Board of Assessors.

The 1980’s reinforced the continuous competency and innovation of EREB, through the

achievements of its members. Harold A. Dawson, Sr. was appointed to the Atlanta-Fulton

County Zoning Committee, For the purpose of enhancing practitioners specializing in real

estate management, the Georgia Chapter of Real Estate Management Brokers Institute,

Inc. (REMBI) was organized.

Wendell White was elected to serve as the REMBI chapter’s First President. Al Knox was

appointed Vice Chairman of the Zoning Review Board. Harold A. Dawson was elected to

serve as Chairman of the Georgia Real Estate Commission (GREC) and was also the first

Black elected to serve as President of the National Association of Real Estate License Law

Officials (NARELLO). Joe Richardson was appointed to the Commercial and Industrial

Institutional Appeals Board. Mrs. Barbara J. Alexander was appointed Commissioner of

the Atlanta Housing Authority. Mrs. Dot Kelly was appointed to the Atlanta Housing

Authority and later elected to serve as Chairman. Willie Ware was appointed to the Fulton

County Housing Authority. Miller Johnson, Jr. was appointed to the Fulton County

Zoning Appeals Board and was later elected to serve as Chairman. Mrs. Jocelyn C. Peters

organized the Women's Council of EREB and was appointed to the Water/Sewer Appeals

Board and elected to serve as Chairman.

SCHOLARSHIP AND AWARDS

In honor and memory of the late Q.V. Williamson Sr,. EREB established the Q.V.

Williamson Memorial Scholarship Fund to assist deserving students in their pursuit of real

estate education. EREB took giant steps in education by first awarding a monetary grant

to Morehouse College of Real Estate Institute and, secondly, annually awarding monetary

scholarships for students attending Clark Atlanta University or any of the colleges

affiliated with the Atlanta University Center.

Under the chairmanship of Delories Gibson, the EREB Education Committee received its

largest educational grant of $18,900 from the Georgia Real Estate Commission for the

development of thirty (30) hour post licensing courses: “Management of Housing for the

Elderly”, “Inner City Property Valuation” and “Commercial Property Sales & Leasing”.

Through it’s Education Committee EREB organized its first Student Chapter.

18


HISTORY CONTINUED...

In 1990, under the leadership of Edward London the EREB conceived and developed the

“Homes for the Homeless Project”. The first “Home for the Homeless” is located at 581-

583 Auburn Avenue is a duplex home owned by Cornelius King & Son Inc, a member of

the Empire Real Estate Board: and the home is located near the M.L. King home inside

the boundaries of the M.L. King National Historic District.

Willie Ware was appointed Chairman of the Fulton County Housing Authority. Al Knox

was appointed Vice Chairman of the Georgia Real Estate Commission and later became

Chairman. September 11, 1991 was the opening of the EREB’s School of Real Estate. This

approved school offers Salespersons and Broker Pre-License Courses. Lewis S. Conn was

School Director and Barbara Ann Alexander was Coordinator. EREB’s Education

Program grew extensively. In 1991-1992 under the direction of Maria Williamson-

Johnson, another grant was obtained from GREC. Several other courses and seminars

were added. The school continues to serve Realtists today.

VICTORIES

In May of 1994, The Empire Board announced that a settlement had been reached with the

Fletcher L. Thompson Realty, Empire Real Estate Board, Inc et al and the Metropolitan

Multi-List, Inc., D/B/A metro Listing Service and DeKalb Board of Realtors. The parties

entered into the following agreement: “Metropolitan Multi List, Inc, D/B/A metro listing

service(Metro MLS) shall not hereafter require any potential or actual participant of

Metro MLS to join a Board of Realtors in order to become a member of MLS.” “This

decision not only affected the State of Georgia, but also Alabama and Florida, the areas in

which the 11th Circuit Court covers. The ramification of this decision is far reaching and

could cause many real estate professionals and local boards across the country, to reexamine

their association options.”

In February 1995, the late Porter Sanford III, President: proposed a resolution for an

organizational name change ratified, the organization’s name became The Empire Board

of Realtists, Inc. (EBR).

Through diligent work to fulfill its purpose, and being ever cognizant of its plight, the

organization continues to serve all citizens within its boundaries. As stated by past

president Q.V.Williamson, “A free man’s most cherished dream is to own his own home,

in the place of his choice”. EBR continues to dedicate its energies toward making this

dream come true. Our Motto “Democracy in Housing” truly provides the stimuli and

stamina for EBR to remain an important cog in the economic wheel of Atlanta.

19


EBR PAST

Chief Walter Aiken

1939-1944

T.M. Alexander, Sr.

1945-1953

Q.V. Williamson

1954-1959

J.T. Bickers

1960-1962

Otis Thorpe

1968-1969

Harold Dawson

1970-1972

W.C. Ponder

1973-1974

Willie Ware, Sr.

1975-1976

Dot Kelly

1985-1986

Wendell White

1987-1988

Dr. Edward C. London

1989-1990

Barbara Alexander

1991-1992

Bobbie K. Sanford

2000-2001

Linda Avery

2002-2003

Lawrence Batiste

2004-2005

Gloria Key-Taylor

2006

20

Sharon Henry

2016-2018

Leonte Benton

2019-2020


PRESIDENTS

W.L. Calloway

1963

William T. Robie.

1964-1965

Allen Caldwell

1966

J.A. Alston

1967

Willie Jackson

1977-1978

Miller Johnson, Jr.

1979-1981

E. Pearl Presley

1982-1983

Alfred Knox

1984

Maria W. Johnson

1993-1994

Porter Sanford III

1995-1996

Dr. James A. Stokes

1997-1981

William R. Little

1999

Priscilla Harrell

2007-2008

Jeffrey Hicks

2009-2010

Karen C. Johnson

2011-2012

Stacey Mollison

2013-2015

Bilal K. Shareef

2021-2022

21


MISTRESS OF

CEREMONIES

Dr. Barbara Christian Campbell is a distinguished leader with a

multifaceted career spanning education, real estate, community

service, and political advocacy. A former educator and

administrator in Decatur City School, she has received

numerous accolades, including System-Wide Teacher of the

Year and Principal of a School of Excellence.

In real estate, she has served as President of the DeKalb

Association of REALTORS and is a Life Member of the

Million Dollar Club.

Dr. Campbell’s leadership extends to her role as the 1st female

President of the Connectional Lay Institute for the Christian

Methodist Episcopal Church, representing 39 states and 11 countries.

A tireless advocate for community and youth development, she has coordinated programs such

as One-Church-One-School and served as a delegate to multiple World Methodist Conferences.

In the political realm, Dr. Campbell has been an active force in the DeKalb County Democratic

Party, chairing and co-chairing key committees. Her dedication to service has earned her

recognition across education, real estate, faith-based initiatives, and civic engagement.

FEATURED VOCALIST

22

Amy McCoy's influence reaches far beyond her real estate

achievements. As an author of books like "Preparation" and

"Sheltered Injustice," Amy has garnered widespread acclaim,

earning multiple awards and recognitions. Notably, she was

honored as Realtor of the Year by both the West Georgia

Board of Realtors and the Residential Real Estate Council

of Georgia. Her leadership roles are significant, serving as a

State Leader for the United States Global Leadership Coalition,

Chairwoman of the Federal Financing and Housing Policy for

the National Association of Realtors, and Commissioner of the

Cultural Transformation Council within the massive 1.5 million

member organization. Amy's real estate expertise has been

instrumental in broadening affordable housing opportunities in Atlanta

and beyond, making her a staunch advocate for housing. Amy is the owner of

My Hometown Realty Group and The Green House Entrepreneurship and

Wellness Center a new endeavor aimed at supporting entrepreneurs

and non-profits to grow and thrive, leveraging her extensive

network to foster community empowerment.


Bobby

KEYNOTE

SPEAKER

HOWARD

A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Bobby Howard was an active youth engaged in

various sports programs from football to hockey and was a star athlete in each. He had

an insatiable love for sports, though it would be football that would not only fuel his

passion but also open the door to receive a full football scholarship to Indiana University,

where he studied business administration. Propelled by his outstanding athletic ability,

he would later be drafted into the National Football League (NFL) and play

professional football with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

In 1994, Bobby’s life changed forever. He suffered from severe kidney disease that

would alter the trajectory of his life. The onset of this illness was seemingly contrary

to any positive outcome. Bobby was fortunate and received a life-giving kidney

transplant. Since then, Bobby has allowed his life-giving experience to manifest

into one that is life changing. As a result, he has dedicated his life to helping

others who face life-threatening health challenges by leading collaborative

efforts for LifeLink® of Georgia with local, national coalitions, and

community partners. As Director of LifeLink® of Georgia’s Multicultural

Donation Education Program, he earned the Achievement Award for

Outstanding Service and Dedication to the LifeLink mission.

Bobby Howard has faithfully served in the following capacities: President of the Association for Multicultural

Affairs in Transplantation, President of the Georgia Transplant Foundation, LifeLink® Foundation Board of

Governors, President NFLPA Atlanta Chapter Former Players, Board Member of the United Network of Organ

Sharing, NFLPA Former Player Board of Directors, and Board Member of the National Coalition of 100 Black

Men of DeKalb County. Staying true to his passion, he also served as a football coach to several high schools in the

Atlanta Metro area.

Because of his work, Bobby Howard was identified as one of six exceptional community leaders across the country

by Coors Light and named Atlanta’s Coors Light’s Ice-Cold Leader. He was awarded the Thomas F. Smith

Leadership Award, Georgia Transplant Foundation Award, and inducted into Pittsburgh city High School Hall of

Fame. In 2021, Bobby was awarded the Clive Callendar, M.D. Circle of Excellence Award which honors candidates

from the African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, or Native American community who has demonstrated

exceptional leadership and made a meaningful impact within the field of organ, eye, and tissue donation or

transplantation for communities of color.

As an ambassador for life, Bobby Howard continues to be in high demand as a motivational speaker both nationally

and locally. He featured in major media outlets such as USA Today, Jet Magazine, The Tavis Smiley Show, The

Reverend Al Sharpton Show, The Ed Gordon Shows, TBN, Good Day Atlanta, Focus Atlanta, and Atlanta

Interfaith Broadcasting - to name a few.

Bobby currently serves on the boards of a Parent Miracles and Metro Atlanta Concerned Black Clergy. He is also

Chair of the National Multicultural Action Group.

Most recently Bobby was awarded the 2023 Diamond Award presented by The Not Alone Foundation. and was

honored by the 2023 Georgia Legislative Black Caucus as the recipient of the Community Partner Award. Bobby

was also awarded the 2024 Outstanding Georgia Citizen from Georgia Secretary of State.

Bobby Howard’s life-changing event continues to lead him to influence life-changing endeavors that have uniquely

benefited and impacted communities throughout the United States.

Director, Multicultural Donation Education Program (MDEP)

LifeLink®of Georgia

2875 Northwoods Parkway, Norcross, GA

770-225-5465, Ext. 5394

bobby.howard@lifelinkfound.org

23


DISTINGUISHED

SERVICE

HONOREE

John

AHMANN

John Ahmann, President & CEO Westside Future Fund

For more than 25 years, John Ahmann has been driven by the

determination to improve the way communities

and institutions function in

Atlanta. From his early days working in Washington, D.C.

to his positions with private, governmental, and organizational

entities in the Atlanta area — including his eight years as an

elected school board official in Decatur — he has focused his

energy on solving the big problems whose resolutions can

ultimately change Atlanta’s trajectory and

contribution to racial equity.

He has worked primarily behind the scenes, bringing together

diverse stakeholders, and managing initiatives through to

fruition, and has had a hand in some of the region’s most

important public policy initiatives and cross-sector

collaborations. Along the way, John has built a vast

network of individuals who are impacting Atlanta

and its future.

A native son of Atlanta, John is currently the

President & CEO of the Westside Future Fund

(WFF). WFF was launched by the Atlanta Committee

for Progress (ACP) in December 2014, with the strong

leadership support of former Atlanta Mayor Kasim

Reed. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to advance

a compassionate approach to neighborhood revitalization

that creates a diverse, mixed-income community, improves

the quality of life for current and future residents, and elevates the Historic

Westside’s unique history and culture. Through its flagship program, Home on

the Westside, WFF helps neighbors live in the place they love through access to high-quality

housing and educational support, strengthening the city we call home.

John has been recognized for his work by receiving the following awards: 2020 and 2021

Atlanta Magazine’s Atlanta’s 500 Most Powerful Leaders; 2020 and 2021 Atlanta Business

Chronicle’s 100 Most Influential Atlantans; 2019 Michael R. Hollis Innovation Academy

Partnership Award; 2019 Christian City’s Community Champion Nonprofit Honoree

Award; Atlanta Business League’s Visions of Excellence Award in 2019; Antioch Urban

Ministries Anchor Award in 2018; and 2018 Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Best

Overall Deal in Atlanta Real Estate Awards.

24

John has two adult daughters and lives in Atlanta’s

historic neighborhood of Vine City.


ESTEEMED

REALTIST

HONOREES

Realtist of the Year

Shaniqua Covert

EBR Treasurer

Broker of the Year

Latika Archuleta

Citywide Realty

Salesperson of the Year

Tiffany Boazman

Village Premier Collection

2nd Vice President

EBR Secretary

Trailblazer of the Year

Sharon Henry

Commissioner, Cobb County

Housing Authority

EBR Past President

Past RVP - NAREB Region VI

Young Realtist of the Year

Victor Collins

President, Young Realtist Division

(YRD)

Partner of the Year

Cerita Battles

Chase

Allied Member of

the Year

Steve Mapes

FMLS

Presidential

Award

Winners

Tangie Evans

2024 EBR

Membership Chair

Tori Nunley

2024 WCEBR President

Programming Chair

Leila Gill

2024 Financial

Secretary

Duane Covert

EBR Member

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th ANNUAL

SCHOLARSHIP

AWARDS

GREEN, BLACK & GOLD

6:00 PM

VIP RECEPTION

7:00 PM

PROGRAM

Dr. Barbara C. Campbell

Mistress of Ceremonies

Welcome........................................................................................ Dr. Barbara C. Campbell

EBR Parliamentarian & Mistress of Ceremonies

Past Presidents’ Processional ........................................................

National Anthem & Black National Anthem...................................

“The Star Spangled Banner”by Francis Scott Key

“Lift Every Voice & Sing “ by James Weldon Johnson

EBR Past Presidents

Amy McCoy

EBR Member

Greetings from NAREB Region VI................................................. Karen C. Johnson

Regional Vice President, NAREB Region VI

Greetings from NAREB National...................................................

Dr. Courtney Johnson-Rose

President, NAREB

Invocation .....................................................................................

DINNER IS SERVED

Musical Selections - Amy McCoy, Vocalist

Live Auction - Shanda Davis-Lanier, Special Guest Auctioneer

Vivian Lyons

EBR Chaplain

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Recognition of 2024 Scholars .........................................................

Scholarship Selection

Committee

Shaniqua Covert

Audrey Milam


th ANNUAL

SCHOLARSHIP

AWARDS

GREEN, BLACK & GOLD

Introduction of Keynote Speaker....................................................

Lynn McCray

Board Member at Large

Keynote Address ...........................................................................

Bobby Howard

Director, Multicultural Donation Education Program (MDEP)

LifeLink®of Georgia

Presentation of 2024 EBR Awards.................................................

Salesperson of the Year

Broker of the Year

Young Realtist of the Year

Realtist of the Year

Introduction of 2024 EBR President ...............................................

Awards Presentation........................................................................

Allied Member of the Year

Partner of the Year

Trailblazer Award

Distinguished Service Award

Presidential Awards

Special Presentations ......................................................................

Acknowledgements & Closing Remarks ..........................................

Latika Archuleta

2nd Vice President

Bilal K. Shareef

EBR Past President

Sharon Anderson

3rd Vice President

Michele Calloway

Sergeant at Arms

Dr. Barbara C. Campbell

Mistress Of Ceremonies

Archie Emerson

2024 EBR President

Archie Emerson

2024 EBR President

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EREB

SCHOLARSHIP

AWARDEES

Bilal Aforo

Dacula High School

Dacula, GA

Sponsored by: Chase

Anthony Silvas Banegas

Pebblebrook High School

Mableton, GA

Sponsored: Ameris

Iesha Banks

Martin Luther King High School

Stonecrest, GA

Sponsored by: Southern First

Brayden Champ Evans

Villa Rica High School

Villa Rica, GA

Sponsored by: Ray Carlisle -

NID Housing Counseling Agency

Joshua Robert Frazier

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, GA

Freshman

Sponsored by: Dana Pitcher

Carlos Gilmere II

Georgia Southern University

Statesboro, GA

Freshman

Sponsored by: Past President

Stacey Mollison

Sarah Leigh

East Paulding High School

Dallas, GA

Sponsored by: Renasant

Ty'yanna McGuire

Booker T. Washington High School

Atlanta, GA

Sponsored: FMLS

Eniola M. Olaoye

Douglas County High School

Douglasville, GA

Sponsored: FMLS

Daniel A. Motino-Soriano

Pebblebrook High School

Mableton, GA

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Sponsored by: FMLS

Jordyn Spencer

Atlanta Metropolitan State College

Atlanta, GA

Freshman

Sponsored by: FMLS

Kamilah Turner

South Gwinnett High School

Snellville, GA

Sponsored by: FMLS


EREB

SCHOLARSHIP

AWARDEES

Isabella Batiste

Landmark Christian School

Fairburn, GA

Sponsored by: NID-HCA Atlanta Metro

Nicole Craig

Southwest DeKalb High School

Decatur, GA

Sponsored by: GAR

Angel Cruz

Pebblebrook High School

Mableton, GA

Sponsored by: GA MLS

Cameron Head

McEachern High School

Powder Springs, GA

Sponsored by: Valerie Johnson

David Hernandez

Pebblebrook High School

Mableton, GA

Sponsored by: Pinnacle

Saniya Hindsman

Pebblebrook High School

Mableton, GA

Sponsored by: James “Jay” Bailey,

R.I.C.E. Center

Moriah Courtney Quarterman

Savannah College of Art and Design,

Atlanta, GA

Freshman

Sponsored by: Truist

Degny Molina Rivas

Pebblebrook High School

Mableton, GA

Sponsored by: FMLS

Brandon Rubio

Pebblebrook High School

Mableton, GA

Sponsored by: FMLS

Solomon Washington

Tuskegee University

Tuskegee, AL

Freshman

Sponsored by: FMLS

Morgan Woodley

Georgia Gwinnett College

Lawrenceville, GA

Freshman

Sponsored by: FMLS

Kalen Wyche

Pebblebrook High School

Mableton, GA

Sponsored by: FMLS

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TO THE 2024 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS!

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East West Bank has worked to build stronger communities for

51 years. We’re proud to support organizations like Empire

Board of Realtists that share our commitment to helping

neighbors grow and thrive. Working together, we canall

REACH FURTHER.

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eastwestbank.com


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Congratulations

EMPIRE BOARD & HONOREES!

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Thank you!

Thank you!GENEROUS SPONSORS & PARTNERS!

DIAMOND

PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

Superior

Catering

BRONZE

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