Annapolis, MD (April 27, 2009) -- Linda Kangrga & Mallory Kubicek, Howard County Association of REALTORS^®, were among seventeen graduates from the Maryland Association of REALTORS^® (MAR) Leadership Academy were honored at ceremonies held recently in Annapolis.

The MAR Leadership Academy was formed by REALTORS^® who understand the important role they play in their community and the need to enhance the leadership skills, knowledge, and competencies of fellow REALTORS^® interested in making a difference in their personal lives and in their communities.

Linda Kangrga Howard County Association

Mallory Kubicek Howard County Association

Howard County Association of REALTORS^®, one of sixteen local REALTOR^® Boards/Associations in Maryland, is a strong advocate and recognizes the importance of this program to our Association's future.

The MAR Leadership Academy offers an intensive curriculum designed around the development of leadership skills, communications, strategic planning, legislative and government affairs and community involvement. Classes are conducted over 7 months and stress the value of professional and personal commitment to professional, charitable and civic endeavors.

"Spread the message and embrace the results," 2009 President Elect Steve Meszaros said. "I charge you to go into your local communities and increase your visibility, which will in turn increase the viability of the real estate profession. The Association is so very proud of the 168 graduates beginning with its first graduating class in 2001," he added.

Guest speaker Mark Foreman, National Association of REALTORS^® 2009 Liaison to Law & Policy told graduates "you must have a passion to serve coupled with an understanding of the responsibility and power of being in a leadership position." He commended the graduates and stressed that "future leaders must be well trained and possess stronger skills to make what seems impossible possible."

Village Settlements, sponsor of the 2008-09 MAR Leadership Academy was recognized for its support.

The Maryland Association of REALTORS^® is the largest Maryland professional trade association serving over 28,000 members and is dedicated to preserving the vitality of the real estate market. REALTOR^® is a registered collective membership mark which may only be used by those real estate professionals who subscribe to the REALTOR^® organization's strict Code of Ethics, and who are members of the National, State and Local REALTOR^® organization.