The 10K Minority Appraisers Foundation Reception. Eric J. Gordon, Creative Investment Research, 6/25/24.

10K Minority Appraiser Foundation Reception

William Michael Cunningham, Creative Investment Research and Thaddaeus Dawson, Founder, 10K Minority Appraisers Foundation

The 10K Minority Appraisers Foundation (10KMA) has achieved impressive success, yet its mission to foster an equitable, modern appraisal industry is just beginning. The Department of Labor’s recent certification of the 10KMA national appraiser apprenticeship program marks a pivotal milestone in this journey.

On Tuesday, June 25, 2024 at the Westin Hotel in Crystal City, VA, I had the privilege of attending a reception to celebrate this historic, first-ever certification. The excitement was palpable, as this signing represents a significant stride in fostering and empowering the next generation of appraisers, harnessing their distinctive perspectives and skills to enhance appraisal outcomes. Speeches from Foundation members and supporters, including CEO and founder Thaddaeus Dawson, emphasized the importance of diversity and the need to update outdated appraisal practices.

In a conversation with Mr. Dawson, I gained insight into why 10KMA has accomplished so much in such a short time: their commitment to teamwork. Despite our brief interaction, he made it a point to graciously acknowledge and credit countless individuals whose contributions were essential to 10KMA’s success. In fact, every person I had the pleasure of meeting at the reception shared this spirit of collaboration and dedication. It takes a community to serve the community, and the national appraiser apprenticeship program exemplifies this collective effort to nurturing and shaping the future of the industry.

Eric J. Gordon, University of Florida, Creative Investment Research, 2024.

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