Ohio REALTORS® Global Business Alliance Earns 2026 Platinum Honor
By Veronica Cardello, Assistant Vice President, External Engagement
The Ohio REALTORS® Global Business Alliance has once again earned the Platinum Council designation from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) — the highest honor awarded to global groups demonstrating outstanding achievement in international real estate. The recognition will be presented during the Global Business Councils Forum on November 5, 2026, at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside in New Orleans, Louisiana, in conjunction with NAR NXT, The REALTOR® Experience.
This national recognition celebrates the Global Business Alliance's continued commitment to international partnerships, education, and member engagement, further strengthening Ohio REALTORS®' presence in the global real estate community.
Under the leadership of 2026 Chair Jennifer Moore, the Global Business Alliance has continued to expand international relationships, develop meaningful programming, and connect REALTORS® with opportunities in an increasingly global marketplace.
"This recognition reflects the dedication of our committee members and their commitment to building connections that extend well beyond Ohio," said Jennifer Moore, 2026 Chair of the Ohio REALTORS® Global Business Alliance. "From strengthening international partnerships to creating opportunities for education and collaboration, we've had an incredible year. I'm proud of what we've accomplished together and excited to see this work continue."
A Year of Growth and Global Connection
In 2026, the Global Business Alliance continued advancing Ohio REALTORS®' international presence through educational programming, strategic partnerships, and collaboration. Highlights included:
- Economic Development Partnerships: Partnering with the Commercial & Industrial Committee during the Winter Conference for a discussion featuring Deb Scherer of One Columbus and Alina Harastasanu of JobsOhio, highlighting Ohio's economic development opportunities, international investment, and the role of real estate in business attraction.
- International Collaboration: Strengthening Ohio's relationship with Finland through NAR's Ambassador Association Program, including a March webinar with the Finnish Real Estate Federation (SKVL) that connected real estate professionals across borders to exchange market insights and industry perspectives.
- Global Education: Hosting Global Horizons: Bridging Cultures in Real Estate with Brenda Kasuva at the Ohio REALTORS® Convention, providing members with valuable perspectives on cultural awareness, communication, and serving diverse clients in today's global marketplace.
- Strategic Partnerships: Continuing to build relationships with international organizations, including the Japan Real Estate Companies Association (JARECO) and the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA), while providing networking opportunities during the Ohio REALTORS® Convention.
- Expanding Opportunities: Building upon the Alliance's success by preparing for the 2027 launch of Ohio REALTORS®' Economic Development Committee, which will bring together the Global Business Alliance and Commercial & Industrial Committee to strengthen connections among global real estate, commercial investment, and economic development.
Looking Ahead
As the Global Business Alliance prepares to transition into the Economic Development Committee in 2027, its commitment to international engagement and collaboration will remain a priority.
The new committee will build upon the relationships and accomplishments of both groups, creating additional opportunities for REALTORS® to engage with economic development partners, explore emerging markets, and support investment throughout Ohio.
The Platinum recognition is a testament to the dedication of the Global Business Alliance's volunteer leaders and members, whose efforts continue to position Ohio REALTORS® as a leader in global real estate.
Together, we're continuing to grow Ohio's connections in the global marketplace — one partnership, one conversation, and one opportunity at a time.
Veronica Cardello, RCE, AHWD, C2EX, MPAP
Veronica Cardello leads local advocacy, community engagement, and global business initiatives for Ohio REALTORS®. She works closely with local associations to identify key issues affecting the real estate industry and directs support through the Issues Mobilization Campaign. Veronica strengthens REALTOR®-policymaker relationships, expands global partnerships, and promotes sustainability in real estate. She also oversees local government and community engagement programs, ensuring REALTORS® have the resources to advocate for homeownership and property rights while advancing Ohio REALTORS®’ international outreach.
