Illinois REALTORS® leadership – photo credit Terry Farmer

On Monday, the Illinois Association of REALTORS® celebrated a century of real estate advocacy, education and ethics and embarked on the next chapter with a new name, Illinois REALTORS®.

In 1916, a visionary group of real estate practitioners formed a statewide organization to improve the profession, protect property rights and give REALTORS® a stronger voice in Springfield.

Now 100 years later, the organization has grown to represent more than 44,000 members and can proudly state that it was in large part responsible for creating a regulated, professional industry, said President Mike Drews during a reception at the association’s Springfield headquarters Monday celebrating the centennial anniversary.

(Left to Right) President-elect Doug Carpenter, President Mike Drews and U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood

“We’ve come a long way in 100 years,” he said. “With our engaged membership, leaders at every level and commitment to excellence, we are well prepared to meet the challenges of a new century of service.”

Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder presented the association with a proclamation declaring April 4, 2016 as Illinois REALTOR® Day. Congressman Darin LaHood presented another proclamation honoring Illinois REALTORS® that was read into the Congressional Record.

Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder

National Association of REALTORS® Immediate Past President Chris Polychron spoke of the Illinois association’s role as a leader in the industry and its strong connections to the national association.

As part of the event, the association also unveiled its new more modern name, Illinois REALTORS®, and introduced Luke Bell as the association’s new executive vice president.