HGAR Welcomes Grace Smith as New Chief Executive Officer
The Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS® (HGAR) is pleased to welcome Grace Smith as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Smith officially began her tenure on June 3 and wasted no time immersing herself in the association's mission and membership. On her very first day, she attended and served as emcee for HGAR's IMPACT conference at Manhattanville University, helping guide a day filled with education, innovation, advocacy, and networking for real estate professionals from across the region.
Originally from the Chicago area, Grace began her career as a REALTOR® before transitioning into association leadership with the REALTOR® Association of the Fox Valley. In 2017, she relocated to Florida to join Greater Tampa REALTORS®, where she advanced through multiple leadership roles and most recently served as Executive Vice President of the Suncoast Tampa Association of REALTORS®, one of the largest local REALTOR® associations in the country.
Grace holds a master’s degree and has earned both the REALTOR® Certified Executive (RCE) designation from the National Association of REALTORS® and the Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation from the American Society of Association Executives, two of the most respected credentials in association management. She brings extensive experience in strategic planning, advocacy, member engagement, operations, and organizational growth.
“I am honored to join Hudson Gateway Association of REALTORS® and look forward to working alongside the dedicated staff, leadership, and members who make this organization so strong. HGAR has a tremendous reputation for serving its members and communities, and I am excited to build on that success while continuing to create value for real estate professionals across the region. After spending my career serving REALTORS® and REALTOR® associations, I am thrilled to begin this next chapter and become part of the Hudson Valley community.”
Her arrival comes at an exciting time for HGAR as the association continues to expand member benefits, strengthen advocacy efforts, grow educational opportunities, and enhance programs that support real estate professionals throughout the Hudson Valley, New York City, and surrounding communities.
As CEO, Smith will work closely with HGAR's Board of Directors, volunteer leadership, and professional staff to advance the association's mission of supporting REALTOR® success, promoting homeownership, and advocating for strong communities throughout the markets HGAR serves.
Please join us in welcoming Grace Smith to the HGAR family and wishing her continued success in her new role.
