A former Illinois state senator, a former McHenry mayor and two successful REALTORS® headlined a three-hour event in Crystal Lake earlier this month to develop and support local female leaders.

“Elevate Women in Real Estate: Dare to Lead,” was presented by the Heartland REALTOR® Organization and the Women’s Council of REALTORS® (WCR). REALTOR® and WCR State President Tracey Royal of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Oak Park gave the keynote address, “Leading By Example,” sharing lessons she’s learned about leadership through her participation in WCR activities. She encouraged members to be open to future leadership possibilities.

A three-member panel answered questions for the audience: REALTOR® Sam Powell of Exp Realty, LLC, in Chicago; McHenry County Board Chairperson Pam Althoff, who also served as McHenry mayor and Illinois State Senator for the 32nd District; and Sue Low Meyer, former McHenry mayor and former special education teacher. In addition to her work as a REALTOR®, Powell is also a national speaker, an educator and a coach.

“Heartland applied for and received a $2,500 Supporting Women in Real Estate Grant from the National Association of REALTORS® and the Women’s Council of REALTORS®,” said Illinois REALTORS® Local Governmental Affairs Director Neeley Erickson. “The conference offered in-depth learning, networking, inspiration, team building and career advice by empowering women to embrace their unique skills. The goal was to inspire women to curate their best career life. They crafted a personalized toolkit they can use to step into their full potential and discover the courage within that dares them to lead.”

Watch a video of the meeting.