LEADERSHIP
What is the Leadership Academy?
The VAR Leadership Academy (VARLA) is a year-long program designed to develop and inspire future leaders within the Vermont REALTORS® community. Through education, hands-on experience and meaningful connections, participants gain the skills, knowledge and confidence to make a difference in their profession.
Why Participate?
BUILD LEADERSHIP
SKILLS
Develop the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to lead with purpose and inspire others.
EXPAND YOUR
NETWORK
Build lasting relationships with REALTORS® and industry and community leaders from across Vermont.
GAIN INDUSTRY
INSIGHTS
Learn from experts and gain valuable perspectives on real estate, advocacy, and association leadership.
MAKE AN
IMPACT
Put your leadership skill into action through meaningful projects that impact your industry and community.
INVEST IN
YOUR FUTURE
Prepare for new leadership opportunities with VAR, the natoinal association, your community, and beyond.
The Experience
Participants engage in a dynamic curriculum that includes leadership development, industry education, advocacy, community service and behind-the-scenes access to VAR and NAR. The program culminates with a capstone project that puts learning into action.
Hear from our Alumni
Being part of the inaugural VAR Leadership Academy has been such a great experience, both personally and professionally. Every session brought something different: from learning more about our REALTOR® Associations, Vermont’s economy, and the issues impacting our communities, to leadership, communication, and professional development.
Megan Quinn
REALTOR®/Managing Broker
Director of Operations
Southern Vermont Realty Group
The VAR Leadership Academy delivered on its promise to create well-rounded leaders for our local, state, and national associations. During the academy, I formed valuable relationships with agents from all across Vermont. These connections greatly expanded my trusted referral network.
Brooks Reavill
Principal Broker
Willow Brook Realty
Participating in the inaugural VAR Leadership Academy has been a highlight of my career, and I am truly grateful for the opportunity. Learning directly from national and local leaders, including 2011 NAR President Ron Phipps, deepened my passion for advocacy, protecting private property rights, and expanding housing opportunities across Vermont. Beyond the incredible training, the lasting relationships I built with fellow REALTORS® were the greatest gift of the experience. I strongly encourage anyone given the chance to apply, and I offer my sincere thanks to VAR for investing in our growth.
Michelle Hebert
Broker, REALTOR®
KW Vermont, Montpelier
Building the Future Together
Strong and visionary leaders will shape the future of real estate in Vermont. The VAR Leadership Academy is more than professional development. It is a commitment to leadership excellence that benefits our members, our consumers, and our communities across Vermont.
Curriculum
January 20 – Montpelier, VT
In conjunction with the VAR Legislative Session
March 22-23 – Burlington, VT
In conjunction with the VAR Leadership Training
May 4-5 – Stowe, VT
June 22-23 – Okemo, VT
In conjunction with the VAR Legal Hoopla
September 16 – Williston, VT
October 27-28 – Jay, VT
In conjunction with the VAR Annual Meeting
Graduation will take place during the VAR Annual Meeting at Jay Peak Resort on Oct. 28, 2027
Who Should Apply
The Academy focuses on association leadership and also delivers skills that elevate every part of your personal and professional life. Motivated members who want to grow their influence and serve at higher levels of leadership should apply.
Candidate criteria:
- Hold an active real estate license
- Be a VAR member in good standing
- Provide one letter of recommendation from your principal broker or your local association executive
- Show enthusiasm and a desire to grow your leadership skills
- Commit to attend all six sessions and required events in full
Attendance: Full participation is required. Missed sessions or portions of sessions may result in dismissal without a tuition refund.
Tuition: Tuition is $750 and is due upon acceptance. Tuition includes course materials, meals and refreshments during class, and overnight accommodation for three of the sessions.
Selection Timeline
Applications are due Friday, November 20, 2026. Virtual interviews will take place in early December, with applicants notified of selection by December 15, 2026.