Photo Credits: Bonita Springs-Estero Realtors
2024 Installation Banquet
December 6th, 2024
The Annual Installation Banquet is Bonita Springs-Estero REALTORS® (BER)’s most cherished event, celebrating the induction of our new leadership for the upcoming year and honoring the outstanding REALTORS® and Affiliates who have excelled through the prestigious "Of the Year" Awards. If you were unable to attend, here’s a recap of the night’s festivities, including the installation of new leaders, award winners, and graduates.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Nigel Fullick, Bonita Springs City Councilman, who served as our distinguished guest and emcee for the evening. Your leadership and support were instrumental in making this event memorable.
A special thank you goes to Mark Ledbetter, 2024 President of BER, for his exceptional leadership. Under his guidance, BER has achieved remarkable milestones, breaking barriers and setting the stage for continued success.
We are honored to have installed the 2025 Board of Directors and Committee Chairs, and we eagerly anticipate the innovative ideas and leadership they will bring. With Adam Ruud at the helm as the 2025 President, we are confident that BER will continue to flourish.
2025 Board of Directors
Executive Committee
Adam Ruud
President
Fawn Estes
Vice President
Wade Abed
Secretary
Jeanne Drath
Treasurer
Directors
Saundra Hinton
Alice Schwer
Brent Greer
Ellen Boyce
Erin McDonald
Gina Lamouth
Michael Mahan
Doug Purcell
2025 Committee Chairs
Sandy Wilder
Profesional Development
Danielle Damianov
Leadership Academy
Sarah Anstett
Realtor Review
Robert Klein
Professional Standards
Josie Mendiola
Gov. Affairs/RPAC
Kris Boyle
Global Diversity
David Scott
Realtor Safety
Mark Ledbetter
Leadership Development
Corlin Tucker
Leadership Academy
"Of the Year" Award Winners 2024
REALTOR OF THE YEAR
RPAC Broker Cup
Global Diversity Achievement Award
Pat Lord Community Service Award
Roger Brunswick Advocate Award
Committee Member of the Year
Affiliate of the Year
Mark Ledbetter
REALTOR of the YEAR
The REALTOR® of the Year award, the highest honor bestowed by the Board, recognizes an individual who exemplifies REALTOR® standards and serves as a role model through outstanding contributions to the organization. This year’s winner, Mark Ledbetter, has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the real estate industry by actively participating in BER events and committees, Florida REALTORS® initiatives, National Association of REALTORS® activities, and international REALTOR® advocacy. Known for his passion for coaching, educating, and networking, Mark consistently follows through on every commitment, representing BER with pride and flair—from his REALTOR® socks to his custom flashy BER polo. Please join us in congratulating our 2024 REALTOR® of the Year, Mark Ledbetter!
Local Real Estate
RPAC Broker Cup
The RPAC Broker Cup is a prestigious award recognizing the brokerage that excels in educating its agents about the importance of investing in RPAC and actively encouraging their participation. This year’s winner, Local Real Estate, Co., achieved an impressive 92.54% participation rate with 62 investors, including 6 Major Investors—the highest of any brokerage at BER—and a total financial contribution of $8,330. Their outstanding efforts have earned them this distinguished honor for the fourth year in a row. Congratulations to Local Real Estate, Co., for their commitment to advocacy and excellence!
James Hunter
Global Diversity Achievement Award
The Global Diversity Achievement Award recognizes a REALTOR® or Affiliate member who has made exceptional efforts to promote global business and bring awareness to the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in Southwest Florida. This year’s recipient, James Hunter, is a true advocate for the global real estate industry. Harnessing the power of social media, he actively educates others on how expanding into global markets enhances business opportunities. Beyond benefiting from his own global investments and connections, James generously shares his knowledge with colleagues, empowering others to "go global." Alongside his business partner, he truly has it “FIGured out.” Congratulations to James Hunter on this well-deserved honor!
Heather Wightman
Pat Lord Community Service Award
We are thrilled to announce Heather Wightman as the recipient of the Pat Lord Community Service Award. This honor recognizes her outstanding dedication to both the community and the Board. After Hurricane Milton caused significant damage to our neighbors to the north, Heather immediately sprang into action, rallying a team of volunteers to assist those in need. A long-time member of BER and WCR, she is always eager to get involved, especially when there’s an opportunity to bring a little fun and creativity to the effort. Although Heather couldn't be there during installation, we look forward to presenting her award at the January membership breakfast. Congratulations, Heather Wightman, on this well-deserved recognition! A $250 donation will be made in her honor to the local charity of her choice.
Joni Pavich
Roger Brunswick Advocate Award
We are proud to announce Joni Pavich as the recipient of the Roger Brunswick Advocate Award, honoring her extraordinary service and unwavering advocacy for BER. A long-time member and true cheerleader for our association, Joni’s friendly and positive attitude lights up every encounter. Her dedication to BER and the community is unmatched, as she consistently encourages others to get involved and climb the leadership ladder. Recently, she extended her passion for advocacy by bringing her grandson into the fold, further exemplifying her commitment to our cause. Although Joni couldn't be with us during installation as she was in Chicago, we look forward to presenting her award at the January membership breakfast. Congratulations, Joni Pavich, on this well-deserved recognition!
Mark True
Committee Member of the Year
We are thrilled to recognize Mark True as the 2024 BER Committee Member of the Year. This award honors a REALTOR® or Affiliate who has gone above and beyond in supporting the Board through their committee involvement. When tasked with a goal for their committee, Mark immediately got to work, not only fulfilling their responsibilities but continuing to contribute, knowing their efforts would lead to even better outcomes for our events. A true servant leader, Mark consistently offers help, even during casual visits to the office. As the leader of the 2025 Events Work Group, Mark’s dedication and hard work have been invaluable. Congratulations, Mark True, on this well-deserved honor!
Danielle Damianov
Affiliate of the Year
We are proud to recognize Danielle Damianov as the 2024 Affiliate Member of the Year. This award honors an Affiliate who has gone above and beyond in supporting the Board while actively balancing their professional and personal commitments. Danielle is an innovator, problem solver, educator, and dedicated contributor, consistently exemplifying excellence in every role she takes on. Despite running a business, raising children, chairing a committee, and traveling the world, she has remained steadfast in her service to the Board. Congratulations, Danielle Damianov, on this well-deserved recognition as our Affiliate Member of the Year!
Installation Program
Installation Sponsors
Founding Sponsor
Diamond Sponsor
