Leadership Academy Class of 2026

Welcome Orientation Luncheon

The program kicked off on April 1 at RASM South with the Welcome Orientation Luncheon. This first session gave candidates the opportunity to meet one another, begin forming relationships, and gain a clear understanding of the program and its expectations.

The orientation featured Michael Bruno, Chair of the Leadership Academy Committee, along with introductions to committee members, participants, and mentors. Candidates were welcomed by 2026 President David Crawford and CEO Jeff Arakelian, reinforcing the importance of leadership within the Association and the industry.

The day also included a project overview presented by Debi Reynolds, Vice Chair of the Leadership Academy Committee, and Kim Coffland, Fundraising Programs Coordinator. Toni Zarghami, REALTOR®  and Co-Owner of the Zarghami Group, led an engaging session on the key traits of a successful leader, helping set a strong foundation for the program.

Team Building at TreeUmph

On April 2, the class continued their experience with a Team Building session at TreeUmph. This interactive challenge course challenged candidates both mentally and physically as they worked together to solve problems, build trust, improve communication, and overcome obstacles.

The experience emphasized collaboration and leadership in action, helping to strengthen bonds within the group early on.

A Year of Leadership Development

The Leadership Academy experience continues with a full schedule of hands-on learning, professional development, and industry exposure.

Candidates will participate in the RASM FIRE Conference and Expo on April 16, gaining insight from high-impact sessions covering business growth, leadership, marketing, legal updates, and global real estate. In May, they will attend a Communication Workshop and Art of Conversation session focused on strengthening interpersonal skills, presentation delivery, and audience engagement.

Additional sessions include Pathway to Leadership, attending a Board of Directors meeting, and Advocacy, where candidates will observe association leadership in action and learn how local, state, and national organizations work together. The Empowerment Workshop with Tim Weisheyer will focus on goal setting, leadership mindset, and personal growth.

Throughout the summer, candidates will continue their development through the Economic Panel and Past Presidents Panel, a FREC Viewing Party to better understand regulatory processes, and the Florida REALTORS® Convention and Expo, one of the industry’s premier events for networking and education.

The program will conclude in September with final presentations, followed by graduation and an alumni networking event.

2026 Class Project: Supporting the RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation

As part of their Leadership Academy journey, the Class of 2026 will collaborate on a capstone project focused on raising awareness for the RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation.

The RASM REALTORS® Charitable Foundation is the 501(c)(3) charitable arm of RASM, providing funding for individuals and nonprofit organizations in Sarasota and Manatee that enhance quality of life in the community. Established in 2020, the Foundation supports scholarships, community initiatives, and financial assistance programs for those in need.

Through their project, candidates will help expand awareness and support for the Foundation’s mission to make a lasting impact across the region.

Learn more or get involved: https://www.myrasm.com/foundation/

Introducing the 2026 Leadership Academy Class

Priya Acharya, Keller Williams on the Water Sarasota
Patrick Allard, Team Allard Realty LLC
Carmen Elizabeth Anzellini, Keller Williams on the Water Sarasota
Andrew Azzarello, Compass Florida LLC
Patricia Dec, The Keyes Company
Johna Desrosiers, Preferred Shore LLC
Ryan Dori, Dori Homes Realty LLC
Danielle Dustman, Innovate Real Estate
Sundi Engle, William Raveis Real Estate
Rachel McCoy, Coldwell Banker Realty
Valerie Padur, Preferred Shore LLC
Dawn Tillette, Exit King Realty
Melissa Watrobsky, Coldwell Banker Realty

We are excited to watch the Class of 2026 grow, lead, and make a lasting impact within RASM and the communities they serve.

To view the 2026 class and learn more about the RASM Leadership Academy, visit: https://www.myrasm.com/leadership-academy/