Purpose

The AE Leaders of Tomorrow Young Professionals Award recognizes one young executive professional who has fostered greater involvement and increased professionalism among his or her YPN AE peers and REALTOR® members.

View a list of past recipients

Congratulations to the 2024 Recipient of the AE Leaders of Tomorrow Young Professionals Award

Jakeeva Lee
Jakeeva Lee, RCE, CAE

Jakeeva is the chief executive officer of the Greater Louisville Association of REALTORS® (KY), a position she has held since 2023. She received the 2024 AE Leaders of Tomorrow Young Professionals Award because she’s dedicated to creating pathways for the next generation to grow, and has worked tirelessly to promote young member involvement at the local, state, and national level. Her innovative thinking and communication skills help make her a top collaborator and dedicated mentor who ensures diverse voices are heard.

Eligibility

  • Only full-time association executives (chief staff or staff specialists) of a REALTOR® association or MLS will be considered.
  • Nominee must be age 40 or under.
  • Nominee must have previously or are currently participating at the local, state, and national levels of the REALTOR® association.

Award Criteria

To achieve recognition, it must be demonstrated that nominees:

  • Provide greater exposure and awareness of REALTOR® association management to attract and support young executives to the profession.
  • Promote young member involvement at all three levels of the REALTOR® association to ensure a strong base of volunteer leaders
  • Solidify the legacy of YPN staff involvement to ensure a voice for the younger generation in REALTOR® association management

Nomination Procedures

The nomination form for the AE Leaders of Tomorrow Young Professionals Award is open September 25 through October 23, 2025. Nomination forms are submitted online. The AEC/Recommendations and Recognition Advisory Board believes that "honor seeks the candidate," not the reverse; therefore, politicking and campaigning are strongly discouraged.

AE Leaders of Tomorrow Nomination Form

Selection Timeline

The selection will be made by the AEC/Recommendations and Recognition Advisory Board during NAR NXT, The REALTOR® Experience. The recipient will be recognized at the AE Institute and will receive a personalized plaque.

Questions regarding the AE Leaders of Tomorrow Young Professionals Award may be directed to Andrew Scoulas at 312-329-5974 or ascoulas@nar.realtor.