A congratulatory message to the Boston Metropolitan Chapter from IREM 2008 president

Dear Friends and Colleagues: It is my privilege and pleasure to send warm congratulations to IREM's Boston Metropolitan Chapter No. 4 on the occasion of its 70th Anniversary celebration. What a happy coincidence that IREM as an organization also observes a major anniversary this year - our 75th. The Boston Metropolitan Chapter - founded as New England Chapter No. 4 - has been a major force in helping to professionalize real estate management in the New England region throughout its distinguished history. The chapter's growth has paralleled that of the real estate industry and the real estate management profession in it marketplace. Indeed, the Boston Metropolitan Chapter has generated a long list of accomplishments since its founding in 1938 in which its members should take great pride. Here are some representative examples: *The chapter has been driven consistently by enthusiastic member participation, close and cooperative alliances with related professional groups and government agencies, and strong involvement in the community. *The chapter has nurtured, and been guided by, an outstanding succession of volunteer leaders - including some from the same service-oriented families. How extraordinary is it that current Chapter President R. Winder Nordblom's grandfather, Robert C. Nordblom, was a chapter founder and its first president some 70 years ago. Similarly, 1991 chapter president Douglas Thayer's grandfather, Harry Gilbert, was a chapter founder and its second president, and Doug's daughter Candace - a likely chapter-leader-of-the-future - will soon be installed by Doug as a brand-new CPM. *The chapter has motivated and supported the development of the Conn. Chapter and the R.I. Chapter. As well, it has maintained close and collegial working relationships with these chapters through jointly sponsored programs and activities. *The chapter has received top honors - or Five Star status - over the past two years in IREM's annual "Chapter Star Recognition Program," which provides special acknowledgment to chapters for delivering valuable member services and programs. Stated simply, I applaud Boston Metropolitan Chapter No. 4 and its members for making a positive difference in the real estate management profession and in their community. By so doing they are generating a positive ripple effect elsewhere, and enriching IREM as an organization. Regina Mullins is the national president of IREM.