In January, RISMedia named some 300 real estate professionals as 2020 Real Estate Newsmakers. Each of these individuals—separated into eight categories—was either nominated by you, the RISMedia reader, or chosen by our editors.
These people made great contributions within their own communities and the industry as a whole. They've dedicated their lives to a better real estate process. Here, we highlight five honorees who were chosen within the Inspirations category—the big-hearted and brave:
Melanie Gamble, Principal Broker at 212 Degrees Realty, LLC
As the broker/owner of Maryland-based 212 Degrees Realty, LLC, Melanie Gamble delights in being surrounded by a team of committed REALTORS® serving the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia markets. In 2019, she was elected secretary for her local board of REALTORS®. Perhaps most importantly, though, she also celebrated her 10th year of being cancer free.
"As a breast cancer survivor, I am acutely aware of how precious life and time are for all of us; I seek to help others realize their dreams and make the most of what they are given," she says.
Angela Hucles Mangano, REALTOR® at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Angela Hucles Mangano, a REALTOR® in Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties' Beverly Hills office, served as Grand Marshal of PrideFest 2019 in Hampton Roads, Va. Alsom she's been named the U.S. Soccer Foundation's Humanitarian of the Year.
"The LGBT family is all of our families: We are your sisters, brothers, mothers, fathers, best friends, coworkers, ministers and service workers. We are the people you interact with on a daily basis," says Hucles Mangano.
Ryan Kutter, REALTOR® at Connect Realty
Ryan Kutter, a REALTOR® at Connect Realty in The Woodlands, Texas, and leader of the Kutter Real Estate Team, aims to "nurture relationships." Kutter has won several production awards and industry honors, including Montgomery County REALTOR® of the Year and a 20 Under 40 Rising Stars in Real Estate Award from the Houston Association of REALTORS®. He follows the motto of "service above self."
"The qualities that make a great REALTOR® are the same qualities that make a great friend," says Kutter.
Jason Mitchell, President, The Jason Mitchell Group at My Home Group
The Jason Mitchell Group, Arizona's No. 1 real estate team at My Home Group, launched the VA Rewards Program in 2019. Active-duty military members and veterans who buy or sell their home with the Jason Mitchell Group get back 30 percent of the real estate commissions at closing, regardless of purchase or list price.
"If you are an active member of the military or a veteran and you are considering buying or selling a home, our program will provide an incentive that is unmatched in the industry," says Mitchell. "It's our way of giving back to those who served."
Kim Vincent, Senior Sales Vice President at Sibcy Cline
Kim Vincent, senior sales vice president at Sibcy Cline, is dedicated to connecting clients to homes that fit their lifestyles and personalities. Vincent has been a REALTOR® for 15 years and says she still loves it. She previously worked as an occupational therapist for 25 years before retiring.
"Find your gift, and share it in your community," she says. "It has greatly enhanced my work experience and, more importantly, my life."
Congratulations all!