2025 President's Welcome Message

Hope everyone’s year is off to a great start! I must admit as I came into 2025, I was excited and a bit nervous at the realization that I was officially the president of the Hampton Roads Association of Commercial Real Estate. Throughout the last eight years, I served as the Holiday party committee co-chair as well as serving on the Finance Committee, Board, and Executive Committee. With having access to all the knowledge of others in those meetings, I do feel prepared for the role.

I would like to spend a moment thanking our past president, Bret Underwood. He is a great leader and was kind to pass on helpful pointers to prepare me for this year. Additionally, I am excited to work more closely with Leonard Provost our President-elect. Leonard is very impactful to the organization, and I feel blessed to have his insight as President-elect.

My goals as president are not lengthy for this upcoming year as I know this organization is full of so much institutional knowledge and wisdom from past presidents, board members, and committee chairs. My focus will be on the future of HRACRE.

Our intern program is a standout in our market, and I know HRACRE would benefit if these spectacular interns came back into the organization. Therefore, I hope to work with the chairs of the Intern program, Workforce Development, and Membership to develop a plan to channel our intern participants into HRACRE if they become working professionals in our dynamic market.

Another goal is to share with all our members the structure of HRACRE and which members serve in leadership roles. We keep all our events and important initiatives moving forward with support from our member’s volunteered time. With creating ways to spotlight the leadership, I hope newer members will see the benefits of taking on a role within the organization. My network grew quickly once I joined a committee, and it offered an opportunity to meet with leaders in our market.

Now that the year is in full swing, my first duty as president was having the honor of presenting Steve Romine with the 2025 F. Craig Read Service Award as well as welcoming Mark Vitner at the 2025 Economic Forecast on January 21^st. It was wonderful having Mark back. The insightful forecast left me thinking about interest rates, the impact of tariffs, and rising insurance costs.

Whether it is a program luncheon, or one of our wonderful social events, I look forward to seeing you soon. Wishing you a successful and joy filled 2025!

Kelli Fox

2025 HRACRE President