Las Vegas, NV – December 16, 2024 – Las Vegas REALTORS® (LVR) proudly concluded the inaugural year of its Diversity Committee, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the real estate community. Under the leadership of inaugural Chair Zak Shellhammer (Marketing Performance Coach and Realtor at Allure Realty) and Vice Chair Toya Simon (Realtor at Urban Nest), the committee has established a robust foundation to address critical Fair Housing and DEI issues.
The Diversity Committee was created to identify the concerns and needs of minority members and underserved groups within the community, recommend strategies to increase diversity within the real estate profession, and serve as ambassadors to minority and underserved real estate organizations in the Las Vegas valley.
Throughout the year, the committee focused on providing LVR members, fellow Realtors, with education on state and federal Fair Housing laws. Bi-monthly meetings featured thought-provoking presentations from leading professionals, including:
- Keaton Larson, Equal Opportunity Specialist at HUD
- André C. Wade, State Director for Silver State Equality
- Kathrine Zook, Silver State Fair Housing
- Scott Emerson, LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance Regional Delegate
- Kenadie Cobbin-Richardson, Certified DEI and ESG Consultant, Kengen Consulting
“This year has been an incredible journey of learning and collaboration,” said Chair Zak Shellhammer. “We’re honored to have laid the groundwork for inclusivity and progress within our association, emphasizing the importance of Fair Housing and DEI in today’s real estate market.”
Surprisingly, despite being located in one of the most diverse cities in the nation, LVR had never before established a Diversity Committee. Thanks to the efforts of past President Lee Barrett, 2024 President Merri Perry, Incoming President Joshua Campa, and the Board of Directors, the vision for this initiative became a reality in 2024.
Key Accomplishments of the Year
- Historical Milestone: The establishment of the first-ever Diversity Committee at LVR, setting a precedent for inclusivity within the local Realtor community.
- Education on Fair Housing: Delivered in-depth discussions on Fair Housing topics, equipping Realtors with tools to better understand and address the challenges faced by diverse client groups.
- Promotion of DEI Values: Raised awareness of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as essential pillars for serving the needs of a growing and increasingly diverse real estate market.
Zak Shellhammer, Toya Simon, and committee members were celebrated for their service at LVR’s President’s Appreciation Dinner on December 13, 2024. Their contributions have set the stage for continued progress as the committee moves into its second year.
Looking Ahead
In 2025, Toya Simon will take over as Chair of the Diversity Committee, with Jamaal Ealey (Realtor at Signature Real Estate Group) stepping into the role of Vice Chair. The committee will expand its focus with a new slate of topics and speakers, furthering its mission to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout the association and beyond.
“This is just the beginning,” said Vice Chair Toya Simon. “We’ve built a strong foundation, and we’re confident the committee will continue to grow in its impact, making LVR a leader in diversity and inclusion.”
For more information about the Diversity Committee or to get involved, please contact Las Vegas REALTORS®.
About Las Vegas REALTORS®
Las Vegas REALTORS® is a leading professional association representing real estate professionals in Southern Nevada. With a focus on innovation, education, and community engagement, LVR is committed to advancing the real estate profession and serving the diverse needs of the Las Vegas valley.