Keisha Williams, President, Tiffany Jimenez, President-Elect , Sam Powell, First Vice President, Lonzetta McKennie Henderson, Treasurer, Linda Hattar, Immediate Past President and Honorary Board Member
Founded in 1999, the Women’s Council of Realtors Chicago was created to provide a platform for women in real estate to grow as business leaders and community influencers. At the time, the need for such an organization stemmed from a long-standing lack of inclusion in the industry’s leadership. The national arm of the organization was formed in 1938 — a time when women were barred from many local Realtor associations. What began as a women’s division by 37 trailblazers from nine states has now evolved into a nationwide network dedicated to empowering women in the profession.
Since its founding, the Chicago network has emerged as a leading force in the field. In 2022, it earned Network Certification for the first time — the highest recognition awarded by the national Women’s Council — and has maintained that certification each year since. The award recognizes networks that exceed performance benchmarks and deliver outstanding member service. In 2024, the Chicago network launched its Future Leaders Scholarship Fund, a 501(c)(3) through the Chicago Realtors Foundation, which provides four $500 scholarships annually to help local members attend the National Women’s Council Midyear and National Conferences, encouraging professional development and national engagement.
Led by President Keisha Williams, the Council continues to elevate its mission of advancing women as leaders in real estate and in their communities. The organization operates as a 501(c)(6) and serves as a key resource for leadership training, networking, mentorship and professional and personal development. With women comprising 62% of Realtors nationally, the group remains a vital community where business relationships flourish, leadership is cultivated and success is shared. The Women’s Council of Realtors Chicago remains a vital network where business relationships flourish, leadership is cultivated and success is shared.
