In addition to the graduating classes of Master Certified New Home Sales Professionals (Master CSP), Certified New Home Marketing Professionals (CMP) and Members of the Institute of Residential Marketing (MIRM), 2006 IRM President Mary DeWalt presented several special awards to IRM members who have demonstrated exceptional service to the Institute and to the new home sales and marketing industry.

Held at the Peabody Hotel during the International Builders’ Show, the morning of accolades began with the Friend of the Institute Award, presented to Tom Vetter, vice president of regional sales and building industry relations for Move™. Vetter was honored for his active participation in IRM committees and his devotion to education. “Tom is a great believer in the great work that IRM does on behalf of its members,” said DeWalt.

The inaugural class of IRM Fellows was then presented. Advancement to Fellow is the highest honor that a MIRM can receive, recognizing the member’s significant contributions to the profession. The 2007 IRM Fellows were Bonnie Alfriend, MIRM, CMP, president of Alfriend Sales & Marketing Solutions, Charles Graham, AIA, MIRM, CMP, Newton Graham Consultants, Dan Levitan, MIRM, CMP, president of Levitan & Associates, and Bob Schultz, MIRM, CSP, president of New Home Specialist Inc.  "Bonnie, Chuck, Dan and Bob have achieved the highest honor that the Institute of Residential Marketing offers," said DeWalt. "Each Fellow has made significant contributions to our industry, and I am very pleased to recognize them for their hard work and dedication."

Consummate volunteer Jim Hale, MIRM, was honored with the IRM President’s Award for his work with the IRM Education Committee and instructor review panel. Hale’s efforts “directly contribute to the IRM’s mission,” remarked DeWalt. “His tireless behind-the-scenes efforts have not gone unnoticed.”

Immediate Past President of the IRM, Jean Ewell, MIRM, was presented with the Trina Ripley Excellence in Education Award. Ewell serves on her local Sales and Marketing committee and is an instructor for four IRM courses. “Under her leadership and guidance, the Institute has grown in its breadth of activities and increased the quality of education for its students,” said DeWalt.

This year’s breakfast had a surprise in store for NSMC assistant staff vice president Michael Copp, who was made an honorary MIRM by vote of the IRM Board of Trustees. Visibly moved, Copp took the opportunity while at the podium to laud the Institute’s members for their service and inspiration. [ return to top ]