Leadership Academy | Bonita Springs-Estero REALTORS®

🎓 Now Accepting 2026 Applications

BER Leadership Academy

A transformative year-long program developing visionary leaders who shape the future of real estate in Southwest Florida.

Apply Now for 2026

Why Join the Leadership Academy?

Unlock your full potential and gain skills that set you apart in the industry.

🎯

Build Your Network

Connect with industry leaders, local government officials, and like-minded professionals who become lifelong contacts and referral partners.

📚

Gain Insider Knowledge

Learn how local systems work—from county government to emergency management—giving you expertise that sets you apart with clients.

🏆

Advance Your Career

Graduates are positioned for leadership roles within BER, Florida Realtors, and NAR. Many become committee chairs and board members.

🤝

Make an Impact

Participate in community service projects and become a recognized leader who shapes policies affecting our industry.

📍

Attend Florida Realtors Convention

Experience the state's largest real estate event with hotel costs covered (shared room). Network with thousands of Realtors statewide.

💡

Learn Leadership Skills

Master Robert's Rules, public speaking, media relations, and organizational management through hands-on training modules.

Who Should Apply?

The Leadership Academy welcomes both Realtors and Affiliates who are ready to grow.

For REALTORS® $200

Take your career to the next level and become a recognized leader in the association.

Gain deep knowledge of local government, economic development, and community systems
Build relationships with top producers and industry veterans
Position yourself for committee leadership and board positions
Become the "go-to" expert in your market area
Complete NAR's Leadership100 certification (required for graduation)
Receive polo shirt, name tag, and FR Convention registration included

For AFFILIATES $500

Get unparalleled access to the Realtor community and build your referral network.

12+ months of consistent face time with engaged Realtors
Marketing perks and visibility throughout the program
Build genuine relationships (not just business cards)
Understand how Realtors think and what they need from partners
Position your company as a trusted industry partner
Receive polo shirt, name tag, and FR Convention registration included

2026 Leadership Academy Schedule

Classes are held on Wednesdays from 9am to 1pm. Most meetings are held off-site.

Feb 17 & 20
Applicant Interviews

Feb 20
Applicants Notified

March 4

Introductory Module

March 25

Retreat (Full Day)

April 15

Module 2

TBD

Raisin Cane Sugar Tour (Full Day)

April 29

Module 3

May 13

Module 4

May 27

Module 5

June 10

Module 6

June 24

Module 7

July 8

Module 8

July 22

Module 9

August 5

Module 10

Aug 20-21
Florida Realtors Convention & Expo

Sept 2

Module 11

Sept 16

Module 12

Sept 30

Module 13

Oct 14

Module 14

Oct 28

Module 15

Nov 19
🎓 Graduation Ceremony

📌 Note: Dates are subject to change. Class project and community outreach may be held on a Saturday (TBD). Carpooling is encouraged.

Program Commitments

By applying, you agree to the following requirements to ensure a successful experience.

Attendance: Commit to attending all program classes. Early departures or late arrivals count as absences. You may not miss more than 2 classes to graduate.

Committee Involvement: If not already on a BER committee, agree to regular committee involvement after completing the program.

Florida Realtors Convention: Strongly encouraged to attend. BER covers hotel costs for shared rooms and may provide transportation.

Class Project: Participate in a Leadership Development Class Project with a community service component, approved by the Leadership Committee.

Interview: Attend a pre-selection interview (Feb 17 or 20).

Investment: $200 for Realtors (includes shirt, name tag, FR Convention registration). $500 for Affiliates (includes marketing perks). Due by the introductory module.

NAR Certification: Complete NAR's Leadership100 at nar.realtor (free) prior to graduation.

Meet Your Leadership Team

Guided by experienced leaders committed to your success.

Mark True

Leadership Academy Chair

Mark is a Southwest Florida REALTOR® serving Bonita Springs and Estero. After a 31-year career as a Walmart store manager, he transitioned into real estate to help families find their dream homes. He is deeply committed to developing the next generation of industry leaders.

Meighan Harris

CEO, Bonita Springs-Estero REALTORS®

Meighan has led BER since being promoted from COO, after joining the association in 2014 as education coordinator. Under her leadership, BER has grown to over 1,400 REALTOR® members and 120+ affiliates. She is passionate about education, advocacy, and empowering real estate professionals.