Winter 2012: Thank You, Retiring AEs

Gil Mercurio stepped down after more than three decades as CEO of the Westchester Putnam Association of REALTORS®, N.Y. Looking back on his career with the group, Mercurio says he is most proud of its legislative influence. “I think our legislative work has been outstanding in this group. We have REALTORS® who understand what goes on in Washington and Albany, and we’ve made some very substantive changes.” Citing laws requiring such things as real property disclosure, agency disclosures, additional education for REALTORS®, and fair housing, Mercurio says the legislation the group has helped promote is “good for industry, but it benefits the public, too.” Mercurio will be succeeded by Richard Haggerty, who is currently deputy executive officer of the organization.

Jane Forth, EVP of the Bucks County Association of REALTORS®, Pa., retired after 27 years with the association.

Sharyn Braunstein, EO of the Youngstown Columbiana Association, Ohio, retired in December after 25 years with the association.

Retiring soon? Let us know: e-mail cschwaar@realtors.org.

In Memoriam:

Ralph P. DuPont, who served for 26 years as executive director of the Albany County Board of REALTORS®, N.Y. (formerly the Albany Real Estate Board), passed away in October. His wife of 68 years, Betty, died four hours later. DuPont, who was a World War II veteran, retired from the REALTOR® organization in 1986. In lasting recognition of DuPont’s involvement with numerous local charitable organizations, the Greater Capital Association of REALTORS® bestows the annual Ralph P. DuPont Recognition Award for Community Service to a deserving local member.