HBA Staff Appreciation Week

Executive Officers Council
Contact: Anna Gimeno
[email protected]
Director, Executive Officers Council
(202) 266-8595

Save the Date for HBA Staff Appreciation Week

Nov. 3-7, 2025

 

2024 Executive Officer and HBA Staff Shout-Outs

members of goba

The Greater Orlando BA has held many successful events throughout the year (pictured). Several members of the BA submitted shout-outs recognizing EO Chassity Vega and her team Jane Ewing, Cherry Masih, Jessenia Lopez, Lee Steinhauer, Ricardo Rodriguez and Amanda Passwaters. “Their hard work, passion, and commitment to supporting our builders and the community truly make a difference. From organizing events to advocating for the construction industry, they go above and beyond every day.”

Norfolk hba team

The HBA of the Norfolk Area (Neb.) surprised their EO, Mechele Grimes, with an HBA Staff Appreciation Week gift and letter from 2024 NAHB Chairman Carl Harris.

Greater Fort Worth BA team and members

Members of the Greater Fort Worth (Texas) BA praised the association staff for their hard work and dedication.

Rena Berg headshot

Nancy Ahlers, member of the Brookings (S.D.) Regional BA, submitted a shout-out about Rena Berg (pictured). “She took the job as EO when I retired. She came in guns blazing, taking the reins and ran with new ideas. She has done an awesome job with day-to-day operations, socials and events!”

HBA staff appreciation

Members of The Greater Houston BA recognized their staff for their hard work and dedication to the association.

Kim Crawford headshot

Ron Weber, Board President, HBA of Hickory - Catawba Valley (N.C.) submitted a shout-out on behalf of his HBA about EO Kim Crawford (pictured). “We would like to express our heartfelt thanks for Kim’s unwavering commitment and dedicated service as EO. Her hard work and passion make a significant difference. We are truly grateful to have Kim on the team.”

EO with student members

Andrew Crane, EO of the HB&RA of Western MA (Chicopee, Mass.), is pictured here with trade school students. Crane’s staff submitted a shout-out to say how committed he is to growing membership, supporting members and workforce development efforts. His staff says he works to ensure each program and event benefits members.

Aaron Hovestadt

Sarah Foster, submitted a shout-out about Aaron Hovestadt, EO of the HBA of Western Michigan (Kalamazoo, Mich.). Aaron is a great leader, outstanding counterpart and collaborator. Foster also says he can rock a snuggy (pictured)!

Adrienne Fontenot and LHBA members

EO Dan Mills submitted a shout-out about Adrienne Fontenot, EO of the Louisiana HBA (LHBA). Adrienne has improved meetings, brought in new sponsors, spearheaded a regional Leadership Conference, and provided valuable professional development to both LHBA Senior Officers and local EOs, “She does all this and more with a smile and is always ready to help on a moment's notice.”

Gisela Lopez and Sarah Avery headshots

Several members of the HBA of Winston-Salem (N.C.) spoke highly of EO Gisela Lopez and staff member Sarah Avery. The members say, “Gisela has been an amazing leader for the HBA and Sarah is positive person and tremendous resource for our HBA. They are both extremely hard-working individuals and have led our association to a place of strength and success in our mission.” Gisela also submitted shout-out, commending Sarah’s positive attitude and willingness to go the extra mile for members.

Niki Groves and team

BA of Elkhart County (Ind.) staff member Jennifer Meier said EO Niki Groves (pictured) always wants to learn anything new that will help grow, streamline and invigorate the association. “I don’t know anyone more enthusiastic and dedicated than Niki. It is an honor to work with her.”

Greg Lane at podium with microphone

Local HBA staff member, M. Lindsay Brown, said that Greg Lane’s “dedication and leadership have left a lasting mark on the culture of our industry in Washington State.” As EO of the BIA of Washington, “His intelligence and thoughtful approach have driven success and inspired countless others to engage and take action.”

Denise in front of capitol

Jackie Toren member of the Marion County BIA (Ocala, Fla.) submitted a shout-out about EO Denise Alexander. “Not only does she rally the troops to get involved and make a difference, but she also lives and breathes MCBIA. She is a friend to all, and she truly loves her members! Miss Denise we all truly love you and you are the best EO we could ever ask for!”

Julie Kneeland and Hope Brudvig

Member Terri Phelps submitted shout-outs for Watertown (S.D.) Area HBA EO Julie Kneeland (pictured left) and Aberdeen (S.D.) HBA EO Hope Brudvig (pictured right) for their high member retention rates. “Keep up the great work ladies!!!”

BBIA staff members

Stacy Roberts submitted a shout-out for Bay Building Industries Association (Panama City, Fla.) HBA staff members Liz Cleary and Nikkole Grimes “Grateful for the hardworking team at BBIA! Always on board to make things better and more efficient for our association and all of our members!”

suhba staff members

Mari Krashowetz submitted a shout-out about The Southern Utah HBA (Saint George, Utah) team. “They are amazing and true professional jugglers! They handle many events and programs at the same time. They are super heroes, and we very much appreciate their hard-work and dedication!”

space coast staff

Christina Slate, member of the Space Coast Home Builders & Contractors Association (Melbourne, Fla.), said John and Tori Thomas were, “the true heart and soul” of the association. “Day in and day out, they put in countless hours to assist our members, coordinate events, and create a welcoming environment for all.”

Miles Conway

Valerie Montoya submitted a shout-out for the Santa Fe (N.M.) Area HBA team Miles Conway (pictured) and Tanya Dorame. “A huge shout out to these two amazing staff members that make our local HBA amazing, we are so grateful for all of their hard work.”

biacc staff team

Elsa Temme submitted shout-outs about her hard working and dedicated colleagues at the BIA of Clark County. (L to R) Noelle Lovern, Danielle Kilian, Karen Hall, Lisa Thompson, (Seated L to R) Amy Johns, Sandy Howard, Angelina Long, Elsa Temme.

faba team

EO Nancy Maria Moore submitted a shout-out for the Fredericksburg Area (Va.) BA staff “I can't say thank you enough for them and how much their hard work is appreciated not only by (the EO) but also the board and membership. They go out of their way to get to know each member and build relationships.”

wv team

Terri Boone said the EO HBA of West Virginia, Jamie Burch, graciously stepped in to assume the duties of the State EO. “She has been a rock star making things happen and keeping the state tracking! We truly appreciate her!”

scwba team

Tessa Dongarra submitted a shout-out recognizing South Central Wisconsin BA (Janesville,Wis.) EO Heidi Van Kirk.

red river valley team photo

Bill Rothman submitted a shout-out about the BIA of the Red River Valley (Fargo, N.D.) team. “Their passion for our industry and dedication to our members shines through in everything they do. From advocacy to membership growth, providing information and facilitating connections, they set a high standard and surpass it time and again.”

VIEW THE SHOUT-OUTS

Executive Officers and HBA staff work tirelessly to help their members, associations, and the Federation succeed. To recognize the staff’s ongoing contributions to the Federation, 2024 NAHB Chairman Carl Harris issued a proclamation announcing the inaugural HBA Staff Appreciation Week, Nov. 11-15, 2024. Members and HBA staff recognized their colleagues by submitting shout-outs to NAHB. View notes of appreciation in the photo gallery above or in the testimonials slider below.

Thank You For Participating in HBA Staff Appreciation Week

2024 NAHB Chairman Carl Harris, CEO Jim Tobin and EOC President Natalie Fryer recap the highlights of the week.

2024 Schedule of Events

Monday, Nov. 11
Tuesday, Nov. 12
Wednesday, Nov. 13
Thursday, Nov. 14
Friday, Nov. 15

“EO Lyn Ann is an integral part of the HBA of Northern Michigan. She is the behind the scenes AND the public face of our association. Every time we need something, she is there to assist. She cares about the members, and it shows. She is amazing!”

Tamara Weidlich, member, HBA of Northern Michigan (Petoskey, Mich.)

“EO Roseann Freitas of the BIA of Hawaii has fostered a culture that embodies inclusiveness and collaboration among [the BIA’s] partners and the communities that make up this very diverse industry in Hawaii. She has led with grace and humility, and has allowed others to come and experience it for themselves.”

Dedra Hinano Nahinu, staff member, BIA of Hawaii

“Ryan Talbot has been with the Iron County HBA for three years and has worked tirelessly to make it better. Our parade of homes was the biggest and best to date! He makes the whole organization a better place and our admin Julie Holmes helps make this all possible.”

Benjamin Barlow, 1st Vice President, Iron County HBA (Cedar City, Utah)

“Shout out to the Madison Area BA staff for an awesomely run HBA and great leadership.”

Ken Nelson, Board President-Elect, Madison Area (Wis.) BA

“Lauren Tucker and Debbie Perkins have been welcoming, helpful and kind since we joined  the HBA of Northwest Michigan. The team provides fun, creative and engaging events that help the industry. They also cultivate great relationships, so members are engaged. Thank you for all the hard work!”

Tamara Weidlich, member, HBA of Northwest Michigan (Traverse City, Mich.)

“The staff of the HBA of Durham, Orange & Chatham Counties (N.C.) are the most hands-on, dedicated and passionate association staff. Not only do they organize every event, recruit new members, advocate for our businesses and the industry as a whole, but they do it with pure joy and a smile on their faces.”

Bennett Sterling, member, shout-out for Holly Fraccaro, Julie Carrow, Taylor England, Selina Day and Ian Scott

“The Utah Valley HBA (Vineyard, Utah) staff works tirelessly to put on countless events, the best parade of homes in the nation, and ensures the membership is involved with committees, service projects and community initiatives. Our great staff has dedicated themselves to offering an incredible organization that the members can be proud to be a part of.”

Nate Livingston, board member, shout-out for Steve Caldwell, Amber Hutchings, Anne Tucker, Wendy Fenton, Eileen Fisher and Lisa Flinders

“I would like to give Rachel Abbott, EO of the Cabot Area (Ark.) HBA, a shout out to let her know that she does not go unnoticed. On behalf of all of our members we would like to show appreciation of her dedication and hard work.”

John Howard, Board President, Cabot Area (Ark.) HBA

“Heather Raisanen, EO of The Home Builders & Remodelers Association of Maine, has taken on the full involvement of running the HBA and always looks for ways to promote the association and grow the membership. She is an absolute joy to work with!”

Kurt Clason, Immediate Past President, HBRA of Maine

“Brittany Ryzenga, EO of The Lakeshore HBA, is an amazing new leader for the association. She has kept and enhanced the strong programs and is looking at new ideas to make this association even better.”

John Bitely, member, Lakeshore HBA (Holland, Mich.)

“EO Keri O’Shea works extra hours every day promoting the BA of Central PA and celebrating our members. She does the work of two people, and we are amazed by her dedication and passion for our industry!”

Don O’Connell, member, BA of Central PA (State College, Pa.)

“Each staff member of the amazing the York BA team brings unique talents and an unwavering commitment to serving our members, supporting our mission, and strengthening the local building industry. Their success is our association’s success, and we’re grateful for their hard work and dedication every day!”

Joe Miller, Board President, shout-outs for Laurie Lourie, Tina Wilderman, Elizabeth Rice, Melissa Longenberger, and Katelynn Wright

“Katy Nelson and Jennifer Bonham move mountains for the membership at the Topeka Area BA. They plan and execute two major events every year in addition to several smaller events and member appreciation outings. Our association has the largest Spring home show in our area, and also does a Build My Future event that is continuing to grow each year!”

Patrick O'Kane, Chairman Elect, Topeka Area (Kan.) BA

“EO Sarah Lazzarotto works tirelessly on behalf of the Mat-Su HBA to coordinate events for our organization, whether it’s for our membership or building our charitable funds to be able to give back. She constantly has new ideas to bring to the board of directors, is organized, helps us run our meetings and stay on track. We have a well-attended board meeting every month with a good culture. All our membership meetings are always sold out with great participation.”

Rebecca Gamble, Board President, Mat-Su HBA (Wasilla, Alaska)

“The HBA of Greenville team has done an amazing job growing the membership and value to the members. The team ensures there are a variety of events that cater to different interests. They are always willing to listen to our new ideas and support us. Overall, it’s clear they are incredibly dedicated to providing members with an exceptional experience!”

Kristin Meyer, PWB member HBA of Greenville (S.C.), shout-outs for Taylor Lyles, Jenna Ramsey and Karen Crowder

“The Lake Norman HBA’s Best of the Lake Awards event was a great success. The committee worked almost all year planning and raising funds for the event! It could not have happened without EO Tracy Butler’s,  leadership and direction.”

Alma Jacobs, member, Lake Norman HBA (Mooresville, N.C.)

“Jen Schuster has done an outstanding job as EO of the HBA of Greater Charlotte. She created an opportunity for our builder members to come together by creating "Builder Games.” It was a great team building opportunity, everyone had a great time, and it  will grow to be one of the best events for the HBA.”

Alma Jacobs, member, shout-outs for Jen, Jean Farmer Orr and Yvonne Case

“Roanoke Regional HBA staff is absolutely amazing. They are upbeat and always creating fun. I thoroughly enjoy being a part of the association.”

Mallory a Cook, member, Roanoke (N.C.) Regional HBA

“HBA of Colorado Springs (CSHBA) staff member Paula Vigil is prepared for committee meetings and does it all with a great positive attitude. I would like to shout out to Paula and the CSHBA team for all they do to support the members of the association.”

Charlie Williams, member, CSHBA

“The Wilmington Cape Fear HBA staff is the best! They work to support our members, to help our chapter grow and to make the HBA an invaluable asset to all! I love supporting this team and can't ever thank them enough!”

Diana Watkins, member, Wilmington (N.C.) Cape Fear HBA

“The Chippewa Valley HBA team, Taylor Wilkins and Christina Prestin, commitment, passion and excitement for the CVHBA are a huge asset to our association. They make what we accomplish possible, and they make it great to be an EO for this association. I truly appreciate everything they do, and our members enjoy working with them.”

Christina Thrun, EO, Chippewa Valley HBA (Eau Claire, Wis.)