Please select a Committee to learn more.
COMMITTEES
Howard County Association of REALTORS®
Our committees exist to help create and facilitate a close connection between HCAR's REALTOR® members and Preferred Partners, in order to provide the consumer with outstanding service and products.
2026-2027 Committee Structure
HCAR’s new committee structure is designed to create more meaningful opportunities for members to get involved and make an impact. By organizing our committees around the priorities of HCAR’s Strategic Plan, we’re creating a more focused, collaborative approach to volunteer leadership - one that reduces overlap, strengthens member engagement, and ensures the work of each committee directly supports the Association’s goals.
Whether your passion is professional development, advocacy, member engagement, diversity and inclusion, or community service, there’s a place for you to help shape the future of HCAR and our industry.
Community Outreach Committee
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
Professional Development Committee
Legislative Advocacy Committee
The following are the 2027 Committees currently accepting applications, in alphabetical order:
Community Outreach Committee
Mission: Builds relationships with the Howard County community through volunteer service, charitable initiatives, and partnerships that demonstrate the commitment of REALTORS® and Preferred Partners to giving back.
Responsibilities:
• Identify meaningful volunteer and community service opportunities.
• Recommend charitable initiatives and nonprofit partnerships.
• Encourage member participation in HCAR community outreach efforts.
• Highlight the positive impact REALTORS® make in the communities they serve.
Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Attend and support volunteer events (1 hour/month). Possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).
Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.
Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Community Engagement
2026 Chair: Heather Shai & Donna Weaver
2026 Vice Chair: Alicyn DelZoppo
2026 Immediate Past Chair: Donna Weaver & Heather Shai
2026 Staff Liaison: Mikesa Ponder
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee
Mission: To foster a culture within the Association and the real estate industry that values and promotes fairness, representation, and belonging. This committee works to ensure every member feels welcomed, respected, and empowered. Members of this committee:
• Identify and address barriers to equity within the industry and the Association.
• Promote inclusive practices in leadership, membership, and programming.
• Develop educational opportunities and partnerships that reflect the diversity of our communities.
• Oversee the Agent of Change Designation, the Emerging Achiever Scholarship Program, and the annual DEI-focused event.
Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Attendance at DEI Committee events (3 hours/year), and possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).
Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.
Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) | Community Engagement
2026 Chair: Carlene Randolph
2026 Vice Chair: Amylex Conteh
2026 Immediate Past Chair: Carlton Stephenson
Staff Liaison: Robin Lewis
Legislative Advocacy Committee
Mission: Protects the interests of REALTORS® by monitoring legislation, promoting political advocacy, coordinating RPAC efforts, and educating members on public policy issues.
Responsibilities:
• Monitor local legislative and regulatory issues affecting real estate and property ownership.
• Educate and engage members on public policy issues and Calls for Action.
• Support HCAR’s relationships with elected officials and policymakers.
• Promote RPAC awareness, fundraising, and member participation.
Time Commitment: Year-round committee. During the Legislative Session of the Maryland General Assembly (January-April), this committee meets weekly, on Monday mornings (2 hours/week). The committee meets monthly for the remainder of the year (1 hour/month). Committee members commit to attending Maryland REALTORS® Lobby Day (6 hours/year), HCAR Legislative Events (3 hours/year), and legislative hearings as needed (3 hours/year).
Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.
Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Advocacy & Government Affairs
2026 Chair: Tony Zowd
2026 Vice Chair: Joshua Palagyi
2026 Immediate Past Chair: Cory Flere
2026 Staff Liaison: Louie Lujan
Member Experience Committee
Mission: Strengthens member engagement by creating opportunities for networking, volunteerism, leadership development, and meaningful involvement for REALTORS® and Preferred Partners.
Responsibilities:
• Recommend strategies to increase member engagement and participation.
• Plan and execute networking and social events.
• Support networking, relationship-building, and member recognition opportunities.
• Identify ways to engage newer members, experienced professionals, and Preferred Partners.
• Encourage participation in HCAR committees, programs, events, and leadership opportunities.
Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Attend and support committee events (2 hour/month). Possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).
Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.
Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Association Development | Education
2026 Chair: Bryce Jackson
2026 Vice Chair: Bill Bloom
2026 Immediate Past Chair: Nicole Cruz
2026 Staff Liaison: Danielle Jacob
Professional Development Committee
Mission: Provides strategic guidance for HCAR's educational programming.
Responsibilities:
• Identify emerging educational needs and industry trends.
• Plan and execute educational events designed to help HCAR members grow their businesses.
• Recommend topics for continuing education, business development, technology, leadership, and Fair Housing education.
• Provide feedback on HCAR’s educational offerings and opportunities for improvement.
• Promote member participation in professional development programs.
Time Commitment: Year-round committee. Monthly meetings (1 hour/month), and potentially other meetings as needed. Possible independent work in between committee meetings (1 hour/month).
Eligibility: All HCAR members in good standing.
Strategic Plan Pillar(s): Professional Development & Education
2026 Chair: Michelle Mathews Kalinock
2026 Vice Chair: Vivian Clark
2026 Immediate Past Chair: Bill Bloom
2026 Staff Liaison: Rita Williams
Your Voice, Our Future:
HCAR's committees are the heartbeat of our Association. By joining, you don't just fill a role—you help shape our industry's future, amplify your professional growth, and stand out among peers. This is your chance to leave a mark on HCAR and real estate at large.
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