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Noticing that the organization had a large presence elsewhere in the country but not in North Carolina, especially in the southeastern region, Price knew it was the right time.

“There was a huge gap in our area with only one other chapter in our state,” she says.

While a Realtor in Illinois, Price was a member of a Women’s Council of Realtors (WCR) chapter there and was aware of the benefits being a member offered.

“When AMBER JOHNSON, WCR state liaison, reached out to me asking about launching a chapter in the area, the answer was a definite yes,” Price recalls.

As past president, Price was familiar with the ins and outs of what it takes to run a chapter. Currently, she is president of Wilmington’s WCR Azalea Coast Network chapter. Besides overseeing local events, Price also reports to the governing board, encourages members to get involved, and represents the chapter at the state and national levels.

WCR’s goal is simple, straightforward, and one of empowerment: advancing women as business leaders in the industry and in the community.

The national organization delivers over 1,500 face-toface meetings annually focusing on business leadership with a mission of not only creating relationships but camaraderie and a support system.

The goal of local chapters is to offer more intimate connections within the community along with numerous networking events. Started in fall of last year, the area’s newly chartered Azalea chapter currently consists of thirty-five Realtors and a six-person board.

A kick-off event took place at the Pour Taproom with STEFANIE ADAMS, founder and chief empowerment officer of WNY People Development, as the keynote speaker.

“Our first event was sold out,” Price says. “Stefanie’s speech was motivating and inspiring, and we are planning more events like that.”

Price admits she couldn’t do it all alone and is grateful for the assistance she receives from fellow Realtors and board members. WANDA WILLS is one such person. Actively practicing real estate since 2018 and a broker/ Realtor with Spot Real Estate, Wills jumped at the chance not only to become a member but also to take part in the chapter’s leadership.

“While serving on another committee with Manda, I heard about WCR,” she says. “I did some research on the organization, liked what I heard, and became a member right from the start.” Wills serves as first vice president, “a position I really enjoy.”

She helps set direction for the Azalea Coast chapter, with responsibilities including developing leadership activities and networking events.

“I like to be engaged with my colleagues in real estate and be around people who are excited to learn and share new things about our industry as a whole,” she says.

Another colleague Price is glad to have by her side and on the board is professional business coach SHERRI PICKARD, of Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage.

A Wilmington Realtor since 2004, Pickard’s presence on the board was initiated on the golf course.

“I was playing a round of golf with Manda, and she mentioned starting a WCR chapter here,” Pickard says. “I was hesitant at first, but by the eighteenth hole, I was in.”

As Azalea Coast chapter president-elect, Pickard is next in line to head up the new local group.

“This year, I am watching and learning from Manda’s leadership,” she says. “The board is charting the course of how the WCR will function, and I am excited to build stronger relationships among our realtor members and support continued professional growth.”

Along with connecting with other members locally, Azalea’s membership also includes access on a bigger level with a referral map, discounts, and PMN designations. In addition, members can take advantage of virtual playlists, e-newsletters, and podcasts. Price has economic updates, social media panels, happy hours (such as an upcoming St. Patrick’s Day event at Edward Teach Brewery), and much more slated for this year.

“My goal,” Price says, “is 200 members in 2023.” W