
Presenting The Inland Gateway Association of REALTORS® Board of Directors Election Slate for 2026
President-Elect
One (1) Open Position | Serves as 2026 President-Elect & 2027 President

JOY RAMIREZ
Joy Ramirez is a dedicated REALTOR® and long-time real estate industry professional who brings a unique, well-rounded perspective to the table. Having worked in escrow, title, and lending since 2001, licensed in 2019, she offers insight not just as a REALTOR®, but also as a former affiliate—giving her a full-picture understanding of the real estate process and the importance of collaboration across all sides of the industry.
Over the years, Joy has served in a variety of leadership roles both locally and at the state level. Her involvement includes Chair of YPN, Chair and Vice Chair of the REALTOR® Party, and membership on the Legislative, PR, and Membership Committees. She has also served as a C.A.R. Director at Large, Vice Chair of YPN, Trustee for the Education & Scholarship Foundation, and is currently a member of C.A.R.’s FAMM committee.
In her current position as Region 3 Director, Joy is focused on helping TIGAR grow by fostering a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and leadership development. She’s committed to creating a welcoming environment where all members feel seen, heard, and valued—while honoring the traditions that have built TIGAR’s foundation.
One of Joy’s key goals is to help bring the newly merged areas closer together as one strong organization, ensuring all geographical regions feel connected and supported. She believes TIGAR should be a place where new ideas are welcomed, future leaders are mentored, and everyone feels part of something bigger.
Secretary/Treasurer
One (1) Open Position

KEN SCOTT
Having enjoyed a rewarding 33-year career, I have always recognized the invaluable role my local Association has played in shaping my professional journey. Their support has been instrumental in my success, and I believe that giving back is not just a responsibility, but a privilege. Serving in leadership roles has allowed me to contribute meaningfully, first as Treasurer of EVAR and now as Co-Treasurer of TIGAR. These experiences have given me firsthand insight into the financial intricacies and operational challenges of both organizations, equipping me to help navigate this transformative transition into our dynamic new Association. Throughout this process, I have remained deeply committed to ensuring stability, growth, and a seamless integration, fostering an environment where members can thrive. My dedication stems from a genuine desire to see our community flourish, and I am honored to continue supporting our collective progress. As we embark on this new chapter, I look forward to leveraging my experience to help shape a strong foundation for the future, ensuring that our Association continues to be a source of strength, unity, and opportunity for all its members. The journey has been incredible, and I am eager to contribute to the ongoing success of our organization in every way possible.
Region 2 Director
One (1) Open Position

NANCY EIMERS
In the past nearly 18 years I have been active in the real estate market and have only worked in two offices. My experience has mostly been with single family homes but I also sell vacant land and have sold a commercial business (restaurant). During this time I have served on several committees, been on the Mountain Council and participated on the CRMLS on the Finance Committee.
Region 3 Director
One (1) Open Position

REGINA SMITH
I’m honored to be considered for a position on the board of TIGAR. I have been a Realtor for 22 years and have a strong commitment to collaboration, education, and growth, I aim to support and elevate both our members and our valued affiliates.
I have served at our association in Chair and Vice Chair positions and on committees with the purpose of leveraging data, industry trends to guide policy and education.
I believe that when we work together, invest in learning, and share resources, we all succeed. My goal is to foster an inclusive, forward-thinking environment where every member feels empowered and supported. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to the continued success and innovation of our association.
Thank you for your consideration—I would be grateful for your vote!
Region 4 director
One (1) Open Position

JENNIFER HIGGINS
I have been involved in real estate since 2001, first serving for seven years with a new home builder. That training enabled me to be successful. Once moving to resale. I aim every year to grow and learn more and to pass that on to others, I am currently serving on an ARL a 2025 in order to help NAR better serve our membership, and I believe that serving on a local level helps keep me plugged into what is currently going on.
Region 6 Director
One (1) Open Position

SHAHNAZ KAFADER
As a proud graduate of the 2025 Women’s Council of REALTORS® National Leadership Institute and the Inland Valley Association of REALTORS® Leadership Academy, I am honored to continue serving our industry with purpose, passion, and integrity.
My leadership journey includes serving as the 2024 President of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Greater Los Angeles Network, a 2026 District Vice President Candidate, and a member of the Government Affairs Committee with the Greater Los Angeles Association of REALTORS®. These roles have strengthened my commitment to advocacy, civic engagement, and empowering fellow REALTORS® to thrive.
Serving on the Government Affairs Committee ignited a deep passion in me to connect with our local communities—working to improve neighborhoods, support our profession, and create better experiences for buyers and sellers. I believe active involvement in our associations leads to meaningful impact and professional growth. In addition, I serve as a 2025 Ambassador for the Redlands Chamber of Commerce, 2025 IVAR Global Committee Member, and 2025 California State WCR Social Media Project Vice Chair. Each of these roles allows me to bring forward a unique blend of leadership, creativity, and collaboration.
I’m ready to contribute at a higher level by serving on the Board of Directors bringing fresh ideas, supporting our members, and helping strengthen the connection between REALTORS® and the communities we serve.
Together, let’s lead with vision.

WENDY WALKER
With 23 years of experience in both mortgage lending and real estate, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals and families achieve homeownership. My passion lies in educating first-time homebuyers and ensuring they navigate the process with confidence and clarity.
I have proudly served in multiple leadership roles, including Treasurer and Community Relations Director for the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals Los Angeles Chapter, and I currently contribute to the Education Committee for NAHREP Temecula Valley. My commitment to our profession extends beyond transactions—I strive to elevate the public’s perception of Realtors by demonstrating expertise, integrity, and ethical excellence in every interaction.
If elected as Director to Region 6, I will work closely with our Realtor community to address industry concerns and advocate for policies that support both agents and the public. I believe in proactive engagement with legislative bodies to shape fair and effective real estate laws that reflect the needs of our communities. Together, we can strengthen our industry, enhance professionalism, and ensure a brighter future for homeowners and Realtors alike.
I would be honored to serve and bring my dedication, experience, and passion to this role.
Region 7 Director
Two (2) Open Positions | 1-Year Term and 2-Year Term. The highest vote getter will receive the 2-Year Term.

ARLENE BYERLY
I am an advocate for underserved communities including those that are economically challenged and for those that are disabled. I plan to help the continued vision of the current board and provide my knowledge and experience to promote new ideas and perspectives.
I am a Realtor with 23+ years of experience. I have been with The Inland Gateway Association of Realtors (T.I.G.A.R.) 18 years and have participated in the following Committees & Leadership Roles:
• 2024, 2025 Board of Director, (T.I.G.A.R.)
• 2025 President, Women’s Council of Realtors Inland Valley
• 2025 Co-Chair, Public Relations (T.I.G.A.R.)
• 2025 Regional Representative for Local Government Policy (C.A.R.)
• 2025 Co-Chair, Ways & Means (Women’s Council of Realtors California)
• 2025 Budget & Finance, Women’s Council of Realtors California
• 2024 Leadership Academy, Women’s Council of Realtors California
• 2024 Audit Committee, Women’s Council Inland Valley
• 2023 Leadership Academy (T.I.G.A.R.)
• 2023, 2024 Chair for Housing Affordability (T.I.G.A.R.)
• 2023, 2024, 2025 –Legislative (T.I.G.A.R.)
• 2023 Treasurer, Women’s Council Inland Valley
Here are some activities I’ve been involved in to support my communities:
• Fundraisers to support our local communities by providing homeownership grants.
• I am involved in Homeownership Advocacy work for our communities.
• Fundraisers for M.I.T.T., raised money for scholarships.
I ask for your vote and the opportunity to further contribute to this organization.

MARIA JOHNSON
Maria Johnson has been licensed and actively engaged in organized real estate for 24 years and started in 1993 as a broker assistant. She served as a California Association of REALTORS® State Director in 2023 and 2024 and is proud to have been honored as REALTOR® of the Year in 2023 from her local Association- The Inland Gateway Association of REALTORS®. Since 2018, Maria has also been active on the Board of Directors of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Inland Valley, serving in all leadership positions, including serving as President in 2022.
Maria is an active member and has been involved with the Riverside Chamber of Commerce since 2004, contributing to numerous committees such as Military Affairs, Strategic Planning, Community Education, and Government Affairs.
Above all, she is a proud mama to her daughter Shyanne, an honor student and MVP athlete. Maria shares, “She keeps me accountable to a higher standard—elevating myself so she can see that a woman-single mom can achieve great heights.”
“Advocacy is a core value in my family, and it must thrive within my community of friends, family, and colleagues. We must fight for change and sustainability—not just in our businesses but in the systems that shape our everyday lives”.
Being a REALTOR® is so much more than selling homes—it is about protecting our industry, educating the public, and holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards of professionalism and service.
Region 8 DiRECTOR
One (1) Open Position

VINCE BALDWIN
As a current Board of director and 2-time past president I have been Involved with our association for 35 years and bring a wealth of knowledge on running real estate businesses and the long history of our association. When I was a first-time president, we had around 400 members, now we are almost 4,000 members. As president, board of director and member of many task forces, where I was heavily involved with eliminating MLS books, the formation of our first regional MLS named GIV MLS and now is CRMLS, supra lockboxes etc. In additional I have served as Chair for professional standards over 10 times and am currently part of the CAR pilot program for Pro Standards. Served as BOD for probably 13 or more terms over my 35 years. I kindly ask for your consideration and vote for Board of Directors. Thank you for your time and future vote!