On October 9, 2025, the Iowa City Area Association of REALTORS® gathered at Carver-Hawkeye Arena to host the annual Inaugural Banquet and Awards Ceremony. The Inaugural Banquet marks the inauguration of the 2026 Board of Directors and the new 2026 President of ICAAR, Jerad Ruth.
Below is your 2026 Leadership:
Executive Team:
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Jerad Ruth, President
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Kayla Fisher, President Elect
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Jonathan Fell, Vice President
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Mike Van Dyke, Secretary-Treasurer
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Phil O’Brien, Past President
Directors:
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Chuck Bogh
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Tim Lehman
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Elijah Gustafson
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Sarah Miller
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Sean McIntyre
In his outgoing speech, 2025 President Phil O’Brien spoke words of gratitude, reflecting on his term and how thankful he was for the opportunity to serve as ICAAR President. As he passed the gavel, 2026 President Jerad Ruth shared his vision for the year ahead, encouraging all REALTORS® to get involved and find value in participation at every level of the association. He stated in his incoming presidential speech, “As a committee member, a committee chair, board member, your involvement in our organization will be recognized, your time will be respected, you will find value here.” His words set an inspiring tone for the year ahead as ICAAR continues to grow and serve the community.
This event also celebrates the accomplishments of the past year and honors members who have played crucial roles in the success and evolution of our industry. Awards include REALTOR® of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, and more.
Below is a full list of award winners from the 2025 Ceremony:
REALTOR® of the Year
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Rob McCain, Urban Acres Real Estate
Distinguished Service Award
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Stacy Schroeder, EDGE Realty Group
Professional Newcomer of the Year
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Elijah Gustafson, EDGE Realty Group
Lifetime Achievement Award
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Mike Jensen, Lepic-Kroeger, REALTORS®
President’s Merit Award
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Tim Conroy, Blank & McCune, The Real Estate Company
Staff Appreciation Award
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Sean McIntyre, Urban Acres Real Estate
Gold Star Awards
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Chris Boddicker, Urban Acres Real Estate
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Kathy Fobian, EDGE Realty Group
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Tracy Adams, EDGE Realty Group
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Stacy Schroeder, EDGE Realty Group
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Jamie Venzon, Lepic-Kroeger, REALTORS®
Affiliate Awards
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Jessica Greving, Residential Mortgage Network, Inc.
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Jessica Bandy, Hills Bank
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Clay Whisler, Whisler Studios
25-Year Pins
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Teresa Crosser, Keystone Property Management
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Wendi Hayden, Urban Acres Real Estate
Congratulations again to all of our award winners, and thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable evening. We look forward to another incredible year ahead with our 2026 leadership team!