Claudia Crowell retires from key position at Association

Claudia Crowell, the Association’s Director of Business Practices is retiring after 31 years of service to the Seattle King County REALTORS®. During that time, Claudia has become known for her infectious smile, her warm manner with REALTOR® members and her development of innovative professional education programs. She will be missed by her staff colleagues and the many volunteers who make the organization a success.

Claudia and Sam Pace, SKCR South King County Housing Specialist

A past Board officer once said of Claudia, “I have never been associated with an individual as committed, skilled and enthusiastic about her position, nor as ambitious to make her department excellent.”

Claudia began her career with the REALTORS® in 1989, handling the front desk when the office was on Eastlake Avenue in Seattle. What began as a temporary job blossomed into a career that included many different assignments and areas of expertise, including global markets and professional standards. When Claudia was promoted to Director of Business Practices, she helped build an education department which today serves over 7,200 members with 100 separate classes each year.

“Claudia is one of those valuable employees who worked her way up through the organization. At each step, she excelled and gained knowledge,” said CEO Russ Hokanson. “That experience and understanding is very important in a membership organization. We will miss her endearing way with people.”

Former President Sam DeBord expressed his appreciation for Claudia’ calming influence. “There’s often stress surrounding the work that REALTORS® do. When we gather at the Board, it’s always a relief to have our association professionals provide a calm, thoughtful atmosphere. Claudia has always led with the supportive kindness that makes the work we do more productive and more enjoyable.”

Claudia with Trish Englund and Jenn Mueller – AREAA

Upon Claudia’s retirement, Marie Hansch will become Director of Business Practices. Marie brings a wealth of knowledge to education and member programs from her previous roles as Administrator of the CRS Chapter of Washington and the Executive Project Coordinator of Seattle King County REALTORS®.

Claudia’s retirement was planned before the current coronavirus “Stay-at-Home” order. The Association hopes to plan a future event in which we can all wish Claudia a happy retirement.