The American Real Estate Society (ARES) recently bestowed emeritus status upon its first class of distinguished members, marking a significant milestone in the organization's history. This designation recognizes the pioneering contributions of individuals who have devoted much of their life shaping ARES into the esteemed institution it is today.

Emeritus status within ARES is a testament to an individual's exceptional leadership, expertise, and dedication to advancing the field of real estate. Those conferred with this honor have served in various capacities within the organization, including as past Presidents, program chairs, journal editors, special issue editors, committee chairs, and ARES foundation trustees.

The inaugural class of ARES Emeriti comprises esteemed figures such as Karen Gibler, Margret McFarlane, Mike Ankieeff, Jeff Fisher, Steve Laposa, Norm Miller, Robi Simons, and Charlie Wurtezbach. Additionally, special recognition is extended to Larry Wofford and Glenn Mueller, who have demonstrated unparalleled commitment by attending all 40 ARES meetings.

As luminaries in their respective domains, these individuals exemplify the spirit of excellence and innovation that defines ARES. In recognition of their invaluable contributions, they have been presented with ARES blue jackets, symbolizing their status as masters in the field of real estate.

The collective sentiment of gratitude and pride that permeates this bestowed honor. Their enduring legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration for future generations of real estate professionals, underscoring ARES's unwavering commitment to promoting leading education and research in the field.

ARES Emeritus Status

Background: The American Real Estate Society (ARES) recognizes the invaluable contributions of its members who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication over the years. To honor these individuals and their significant contributions, ARES has established the Emeritus status.

Purpose: The Emeritus status acknowledges individuals who have served in appointed or elected roles within ARES, or who have been steadfast supporters of the organization. It provides a means to recognize their leadership contributions while fostering continued engagement and potential future support.

Nomination Process: Nominations for Emeritus status are open to all members of the ARES community. A simple one-page nomination form is submitted to the nomination committee, comprising the Immediate Past President, President, President-Elect of ARES, and three ARES Foundation board members. Self-nominations are also welcome.

Criteria: To be eligible for Emeritus status, nominees must meet the following criteria:

• Retired from a full-time academic or industry position (though they may still be active in other endeavors).
• Not currently holding an ARES leadership position.
• A minimum of 10 years of membership with ARES.
• Demonstrated leadership within ARES, including holding officer, director, or editorial positions.
• Substantial contributions to ARES, such as published articles in ARES journals, premium memberships, or support for ARES initiatives.

Benefits to Awardee: Individuals awarded Emeritus status receive the following benefits:

• Inclusion in the Annual Program and on a dedicated Emeritus page in ARES publications.
• Free lifetime access to ARES journals in electronic format.
• ARES Foundation covers the registration fee for the year of the Emeritus award (at the Significant Other registration rate).
• ARES Foundation provides an ARES blue windbreaker adorned with the ARES logo and "Emeritus" designation (awardees must be present to receive).
• Special recognition ceremony at the ARES Spring Conference.

Constraints: While Emeritus status confers certain benefits, awardees do not receive voting rights at Annual Meetings unless they are current dues-paying members or fully paid-up life members. Additionally, the number of annual awards is limited to two recipients per year, with exceptions made for special circumstances, such as the 40th anniversary celebration, where between 5 and 10 Emeritus candidates may be honored.