2025 Board of Directors Candidate
Gaye Rainey
Gaye Rainey is a highly experienced, respected REALTOR with over 46 years of experience in our profession and member of SRAR. As a broker, certified mediator, and trainer Gaye has helped countless clients and agents navigate the complex world of Real Estate. Gaye has earned a reputation for exceptional knowledge, professionalism, dedication to agents, clients, and profession. I have served on and/or chaired every major committee at our association, including serving as 2015 SRAR president. In today’s constantly changing real estate industry, Gaye’s experience and expertise are more valuable than ever. Our industry is facing a range of complex challenges from new regulations to constantly shifting market conditions. Gaye’s insights and guidance will assist SRAR to navigate these issues. Gaye’s knowledge, expertise and insights make her a valuable asset to the SRAR BOD.
Cathy DeRose
Having 40 plus years of experience as a real estate licensee and broker, as well as working alongside my peers as a committee member, has given me insight with a calm and steady perspective to help drive our association into the future as we navigate some of the very challenging changes we will be facing as move forward into the future.
Maria Valencia
I would like to be a director to build and maintain strong relationships with other industry professionals and community leaders. I can help in fostering collaborations, securing partnerships, and advocating for policies that benefit the industry. I will continuously promote learning and professional development within the industry and mentor upcoming Real Estate professional and encourage them to pursue certification and advance education. I will uphold and promote high ethical standards and integrity in all business dealing.
Nancy Starczyk
After 35 years in leadership, it is my belief that I provide a “platform” of experience that can help guide, build & grow, new leadership. My knowledge of community & legislative issues can benefit our membership. With experience in both Valleys, I hold a unique perspective. Considering my 4 times as President of SCV, 2017 President of SRAR, CAR Director and NAR Director tenure, I have a well-rounded base to draw from. Over all 35 years, I have voluntarily, proudly served our Association–both within our Association and outside organizations. Using my connections, my spirit of cooperation and intense focus, I wish to continue as a Director.
Filip Sapiandante Crispino
I am grateful & blessed to be a REALTOR. This industry has changed my life & those of my Family & Clients forever for the better. I have served before & took time away. I have now centered myself in order to serve anew. Thank you for the opportunity to run & serve.
Patricia Petralia
In 1977 I received my real estate license and I have been a proud member of SRAR for over 46 years. Over the years I have served on likely every committee from an enthusiastic member to Vice Chair or Chair numerous times and I continue to do so today. In 2010 I was honored to represent SRAR as its President and in 2014 I received the prestigious REALTOR of the Year award. I have been a SRAR and CAR Director since 2005 and a NAR Director. It has been an honor of a lifetime to give back to an industry that has given so much to me both individually and professionally. I feel there is so much more I have to give to SRAR, our membership and future leaders.
Doris Requena Casas
With over 16 years of volunteer experience at the Southland Regional Association of Realtors, I have held multiple chairperson positions and played an instrumental role in establishing the local Young Real Estate Professionals network. I also contributed to launching new committees and programs that have advanced the association’s mission. I helped launch the YREP and Communications Committee. I am no stranger to leadership and have strong relationship-building skills, which I leverage to foster collaboration and growth within the organization. As a director, I aim to bring fresh ideas and a team-oriented approach that aligns with the association’s goals. My extensive experience, coupled with my ability to build strong connections, allows me to offer valuable insight and strategic vision to help SRAR continue to thrive. I am passionate about my real estate career and see no better place to volunteer than our association. I would be honored to serve as a director.
Jodie Francisco
As a dedicated member of SRAR for 22 years, I am committed to taking on the legal and fiduciary responsibilities of the board of directors. I have a proven track record of attending committee meetings, promoting SRAR’s positive reputation, and supporting our association’s charitable, social, and political initiatives. My expertise in both residential real estate and governmental affairs positions me to effectively contribute to the strategic direction of SRAR and ensure its continued success. I believe my expertise and passion make me a valuable asset to the SRAR board of directors.
Wendy Silver-Hale
We’re at an inflection point with big changes from NAR’s settlement. Experienced leadership’s never been more important. I’ve spent 47 years working for our Association, members, and communities. It’s time to return to our Board of Directors. I’m honored to be your Past President, CAR Regional Chair, CAR Member for Life, NAR Realtor EMERITUS, serving many years on SRAR and CAR BODs and committees, including CAR forms. I’m your Key Contact with the County Assessor and on his Advisory Council, County Supervisor, City Councilmember, and City of Calabasas. I’m proud I was able to create innovative member programs. Outside of real estate I sing at senior living homes, read to children at libraries, and a VCP for LAPD. With the significant changes we now face I believe it’s time to bring my experience back to our BOD. I ask for your vote to help me help you. Thanks.
Renée Roqué
I have been on a leadership journey for the past decade, which has opened my heart to advocacy at the local, state and national levels. Those 10 years have been the training ground, working with different people, understanding policy and learning more about organized real estate which I would like to continue with our local AOR to help our local Members.
Howard Katchen
“Ask what SRAR can do for you and what you can do for SRAR and our real estate profession”. Your ideas, thoughts, needs are very important and deserve to be heard, represented and acted upon. My aims: 1) Keep you informed 2) Be responsive to your needs 3) Seek your participation at SRAR and engage you in issues affecting our real estate profession and property owners. 4) Provide you with desired professional, personal benefits, resources and services I stand for affordable housing, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, to foster the next generation of SRAR leadership, sustainability, and your health, safety, financial wellbeing, Current SRAR Director. Treasurer, Executive, Finance, Government Affairs committees. C.A.R. Director, IMPAC Trustee. Community service: Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council, Neighbor Council Budget Advocates, Los Angeles County Assessor’s Advisory Council. Education: USC, London School of Economics and London Business School. Your vote is appreciated and will help me help you!
Olivia Chavez Serrano
I aspire to continue being a Director because I am deeply committed to fostering the growth and well-being of our members. My passion for real estate stems from a desire to create opportunities that positively impact both individuals and neighborhoods. As a Director, I aim to leverage my experience and insight to drive initiatives that align with our associations mission, ensuring that we continue to support and empower our members. By promoting innovation and collaboration, I am confident I can contribute meaningful value that enhances success for all involved.
Louisa Henry
To make sure REALTORS stay relevant and educated for our clients. Help others navigate through new changes to our industry. Also make changes in our real estate community as the members see fit to better our profession. On a more personal note, to work with the best in our profession and learn from them. My goal is to mentor and teach new agents in our industry.
Jeff Philips
TO SERVE THE BEST INTEREST OF MEMBERSHIP
Leon Chernyavsky
• 25 Years Real Estate Experience • Was one of the heaviest advertised REALTORS in San Fernando Valley • Taught weekly Real Estate classes and was a company mentor • Closed escrow on properties as low as $90,000 to as high as $10,000,000 • Closed escrow sales combine to over $500,000,000 worth of transactions • Successfully closed countless sales in both California as well as other states, per clients request and referral programs • Local and International Clientele 2008 Dilbeck 3rd Place Office Associate of the Year • 2007 Dilbeck Award of Excellence • 2006 Dilbeck 2nd Place Office Associate of the Year • 2005 Dilbeck Award of Excellence
Starr James
As an active REALTOR deeply involved with SRAR, I am running for the Board Of Directors to drive positive change forward. My participation on committees and as Chair of YPN in 2022 has allowed me to contribute valuable insights and propose actionable ideas that benefit our membership. I believe my voice brings a fresh yet experienced perspective, crucial for SRAR’s continued growth and success. My dedication was honored with the Rookie of the Year award, highlighting the hard work I bring to our organization. I strongly support the REALTOR Action Fund, knowing its role in protecting and promoting homeownership. By serving on the board, I aim to represent the diverse needs of all members while ensuring SRAR remains a strong advocate for REALTORS and homeowners. I am excited to bring my experience, passion and commitment to this leadership role.
*Thirteen openings available allowing up to three past presidents to be elected. Ten positions will be two-year terms and three positions will be a one-year term to satisfy SRAR Bylaw Article X, Section 3(c)