In this session, participants will be introduced to the SCR Leadership Academy and learn about its history. The class overview will include upcoming sessions, participant expectations and responsibilities, and anticipated outcomes.

Participants will engage with the SCR CEO and CFOO to explore how SCR leads the real estate industry and the importance of a “members first” mentality when proposing statewide initiatives. Active association leaders will also attend to share their experiences and explain the value of service and their reasons for serving the association.

To foster connections, participants will take part in team-building exercises and begin developing leadership communication skills. This includes a session on professionalism, business etiquette, and skill refinement. Additionally, each participant will complete a Prism assessment to gain deeper insight into their personal strengths and leadership style.

Participants will receive updates from NAR advocacy groups and learn about current economic trends during the housing market and legal affairs updates. They will also receive an overview of RPAC, hear from a government advocacy panel, and learn about state and local programs. After the NAR sessions conclude, participants will visit the Hill to meet a South Carolina representative and tour the Capitol.

Leadership Academy attendees will participate in the Capitol Conference Major Investor event and the Legislative Reception on March 3rd to learn about the importance of contributing to RPAC and to experience SCR’s advocacy efforts firsthand.

On March 3rd, the group will attend SCR’s Capitol Conference, where they will gain deeper insight into SCR’s advocacy initiatives and the value of investing in RPAC. The class will be formally announced and recognized at the event, with reserved seating provided.
Later, on March 4th, the class will visit the South Carolina Statehouse for a behind-the-scenes look at SCR’s lobbying activities. Participants will also learn how to effectively communicate real estate issues to elected officials.

Whether you’re preparing for media interviews, public speaking engagements, or internal communications, this course is designed to elevate your skills and boost your confidence. You’ll learn to craft compelling messages, handle challenging questions with poise, and engage your audience effectively. Our expert trainer offers personalized feedback and hands-on practice in a supportive environment, ensuring you leave equipped with the tools and techniques to shine as a spokesperson.

Participants will travel to Columbia the evening before a South Carolina Real Estate Commission board meeting. That evening, they will gather at SCR headquarters for a building tour and an opportunity to meet SCR staff.

The following day, students will attend the Real Estate Commission board meeting, where they will be introduced to Austin Smallwood, SCR’s Vice President of Legal and Regulatory Affairs, the Commission Chair, and members of the LLR staff.

Participants will attend SCR’s Legal Conference and graduate in front of their peers at the Board of Directors meeting on September 15th. The final session of the Leadership Academy focuses on next steps and future goals of each participant. After being introduced to SCR’s expectations of leadership and the internal workings of the association at the national level, each leadership participant will be asked to critically analyze their next steps within the association.

Participants are required to attend a virtual SCR Board meeting, an SCR Executive Committee meeting, and a Mock Hearing for Grievance and Professional Standards. In addition, each participant must select and attend one committee meeting from the following list:

• Legal Action Committee
• Standard Forms Committee
• Legislative Committee
• South Carolina Community Alliance
• Finance Committee
• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Council