LPR Fall Luncheon Recap 2025: Celebrating Leadership, Community, and the Heart of Our Association

The Longleaf Pine REALTORS® community gathered on November 20 at the Crown Complex for one of our most meaningful traditions of the year — the LPR Fall Luncheon. This annual event honors the people, progress, and shared purpose that continue to strengthen our association and the members we’re proud to serve.

More than a luncheon, it was a moment to celebrate leadership, service, achievement, and the incredible ways our members uplift each other and the communities we represent.

Opening the Event: A Celebration of Community

The afternoon began with a warm welcome from Outgoing President David Zeitz, who called the meeting to order before leading the room in the Pledge of Allegiance and reflections that grounded the event in gratitude and purpose.

Members, affiliates, and partners filled the room — a vibrant mix of familiar faces, new leaders, and long-time supporters who continue to deepen the strength of the REALTOR® family across our region.

One of the first recognitions of the afternoon honored our Past Presidents, whose stewardship and legacy continue to guide the association forward. Their presence served as a reminder that LPR’s success is built on decades of dedicated volunteer leadership.

A Powerful Message From FTCC: The Impact of Skilled Trades

We were honored to welcome Dr. Murtis Worth, Senior Vice President for Academic and Student Services at FTCC, who delivered a compelling program about the importance of skilled trades and the power of investing in workforce development. Her message — that real estate growth is intrinsically tied to education, opportunity, and community partnerships — resonated across the room.

Celebrating Our Leaders: 2025 Officers, Directors & Committee Chairs

David Zeitz invited the 2025 Officers & Directors and Committee Chairs to stand and be recognized. Their collective leadership helped guide LPR through a year of growth, resilience, and service.

Leadership Academy Graduation

One of the highlights of the luncheon was recognizing the newest class of NC REALTORS® William C. Bass Leadership Academy graduates, including LPR’s own Nakia Nelson. Their achievement reflects dedication to professional growth and a commitment to serving our association at the highest level.

On the local level, the 2025 Leadership Academy graduating class at Longelaf Pine REALTORS®included:
Hayley Blue • Ellen Brown • Sheva Burrow • Adela Costelow • Doni Crowell • Qiana Davis • Tarshae Drummond • Monique Empleo-McFarland • Pamela Evans • Ricky Evans • Heather Fuhrman • Ruben Garcia • Armisha Handberry • Victoria Harrison • Isaac Holder • Nicole Martinez • Natasha McNeill • Edell Price Jr. • Heather Shirk • Juana Silva • Teraye Tatum • Sue Todd • Fanny Vera • Teresa View • Susanna Willock

Honoring Exellence: 2025 Award Recipients

Each year, LPR honors members who embody professionalism, integrity, and service. This year’s awards celebrated individuals who raised the bar for our entire community.

• Affiliate of the Year — Johnnie Johnson
• Rookie of the Year — Isaac Holder
• REALTOR® of the Year — Melissa McKinney

These recognitions highlight the dedication, hard work, and spirit of service that shape our association every day.

President’s Award(s)

President David Zeitz presented the prestigious President’s Awards, honoring individuals whose outstanding contributions made a meaningful impact on LPR this year. These awards represent the heart of our association — volunteer service, collaboration, and a commitment to elevating fellow REALTORS®. Named as receipents were Candi Quigley and Megan Gerber.

Passing the Gavel: Installation of the 2026 Officers & Directors

One of the most anticipated moments of the luncheon was the formal installation of LPR’s 2026 leadership team. This ceremony marks the transition to a new year of service, strategy, and momentum for our association.

The installation concluded with the presentation of the Past President’s Plaque to David Zeitz, followed by the ceremonial Passing of the Gavel — a symbolic moment honoring past leadership and welcoming new vision. Incoming President Candilee Quigley closed with heartfelt remarks that set an optimistic tone for the year ahead, emphasizing collaboration, professionalism, and member empowerment.

Giving Back: Supporting Friends of Children at Cape Fear Valley Hospital

In the spirit of community, members contributed generously to the Friends of Children CFV teddy bear collection. This act of kindness underscored the heart of LPR — REALTORS® who show up for their communities both professionally and personally.

A Heartfelt Thank You!

We are incredibly grateful to every member, volunteer leader, affiliate, and partner who joined us for this year’s Fall Luncheon. Your presence, energy, and support continue to drive the mission of Longleaf Pine REALTORS® — to serve, to lead, and to strengthen our community together.

As we move into 2026, we do so with renewed momentum and deep appreciation for every one of you.