We are sharing the following message from 2025 President Gina Waters, prefaced with a note of thanks to her and to our entire volunteer leadership team for the positive difference they make for our members. We know how busy REALTORS^® are, so we are especially grateful for those of you who give of your time and energy to make our Association—and our community—better and stronger. Thank you! (Visit this page to learn more about our volunteer leaders.)

Dear Fellow EMTAR Members,

As I serve as your president for 2025, my primary focus is to ensure that we continue to demonstrate the immense value of this Association to our members. To do that, I believe first and foremost in the power of authentic and effective communication. I want every single one of you to feel heard, supported, and empowered as we navigate the challenges and opportunities of our industry together.

Many of you may have seen my videos on social media, and yes, I know they might seem silly to some. But those videos come from my passion for helping people, whether it’s in real estate, at church, or simply bringing joy to friends and family. This is who I am—someone whose joy comes from seeing others succeed and realize their dreams. Whether it’s finding the perfect home, singing in a choir, or rejoicing in a football victory, I believe in celebrating each other’s wins.

Let’s start by celebrating our EMTAR committee chairs and members. Every committee has been meeting and working on their plans for 2025. Among many highlights so far, here are just a few:

Thanks to the Membership committee, we had a successful mixer at ML Rose—can’t wait for more of those! Our next membership luncheon will be March 18, 11:00 AM at Rutland Place, with special guest Chris Garrett, Tennessee REALTORS^® President-Elect (and someone many of us know from business and/or from the excellent courses he has taught).

The Community Involvement Committee had a great turnout as they volunteered at the Habitat ReStore in Lebanon. And many more! Stay tuned for more exciting events and volunteer opportunities through EMTAR.

As 2025 continues to unfold, my focus will be on three key areas:

1. Communication: As I mentioned above, open, authentic, and transparent dialogue with our members is essential. I want to hear your concerns and work with you to address the challenges we face.

2. Committees: I’m excited about our hardworking, dedicated committee chairs, vice chairs, and committee members. Together, we will ensure these committees are not only active but impactful.

3. Wilson County Political Coordinators: We are so fortunate to have RPAC fighting for legislation that protects REALTORS^® and property owners. I’d love for EMTAR to adopt a system similar to NAR and Tennessee REALTORS^®, where a volunteer is paired with each elected official. Building these relationships is critical to advocating for our profession and our clients.

I once heard that great leaders lead with their hearts, and brilliant leaders execute with their minds. My goal is to do both. I am passionate about this Association and our mission, and I am committed to continuing the legacy of excellence established by our past presidents and fellow board leaders.

Thank you for trusting me with this responsibility. Together, I know we can accomplish amazing things. Let’s keep working to make 2025 a year to remember!

Appreciatively,

Gina Waters
Coldwell Banker Barnes

About EMTAR: Chartered in 1969, our Association’s 1,200+ REALTORS^® are a proud part of the 36,000+ members of Tennessee REALTORS^® and of the 1.5 million+ members of NAR, all working to serve the public and protect the rights of America’s property owners. EMTAR members are known not only for their unmatched real estate excellence and high ethical standards, but also for being generous, hospitable, others-focused, loyal, hardworking, and eager to help wherever and whenever help is needed.