REALTOR® PARTY OF CA
TRAINING TRACK

Location: Breakwater Hallway

Eric Schwartz, Emcee; Tamara Suminski, 2026 President; Mark Peterson, 2026 President-Elect; Nikki Coppa, 2026-2027 Treasurer, C.A.R.; Phil Hawkins, CEO, C.A.R.

Turn up the volume on advocacy as we launch our annual REALTOR® Party of California Training. Together with Emcee Eric Schwartz and the 2026 Officers, we’ll set the tempo for an afternoon centered on leadership, impact, and the power of collective action. This kickoff will highlight why the REALTOR® Party matters, the role every leader plays, and the strength we bring when we show up with one voice.

Speaker: Juan Bendaña, Leadership Expert & Bestselling Author

What if the very challenges that make leadership feel uncertain are actually your greatest opportunities to lead with impact? In this high-energy kickoff, Juan Bendaña will show how confidence, trust, and resilience can transform disruption into momentum – for REALTORS®, for homeowners, and for the REALTOR® Party. With practical strategies and a bold mindset shift, you’ll leave not only inspired but equipped to advocate, influence, and lead with clarity and courage in the year ahead.

Speaker: James Baiseri, 2026 FAMM Advisory Committee Chair; Elizabeth Campbell Chase, 2026 REALTOR® Party of CA Director; David Stark, Chief Public Affairs & Communications Officer, Bay East AOR

Advocacy isn’t just politics – it’s the rhythm that drives the REALTOR® Party. This interactive session breaks down how government shapes every part of a REALTOR®’s work, from transactions and housing to clients and communities. Speakers will demystify how issues, candidates, fundraising, and grassroots action connect under the REALTOR® Party of California – showing how Vote, Act, and Invest work together as one powerful system. With audience participation and practical takeaways, leaders will leave with the tools and language to champion advocacy back home and engage members with confidence.

Jennifer Svec, VP of Public Policy, C.A.R.; Sanjay Wagle, SVP & Chief Lobbyist, C.A.R.

C.A.R.’s lobbyists pull back the curtain on how Board of Directors actions become lobbying strategy, how issues are prioritized, and why member voices are essential to moving policy forward. Learn how staff and REALTORS® team up to influence lawmakers, connect local relationships to state priorities, and keep the REALTOR® Party agenda strong in California.

Moderator: Phil Hawkins, CEO, C.A.R.; Panelists: Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens (AD26); Senator Suzette Martinez Valladares (SD23)

What do lawmakers really think about REALTOR® advocacy? In this bipartisan panel, legislators will share perspectives on how advocacy influences decision-making, what builds trust and credibility, and the role of member engagement in moving policy forward. Panelists will reflect on their own leadership journeys, highlight lessons learned from other advocacy groups, and discuss what truly moves the needle when REALTORS® show up.

James Baiseri, 2026 FAMM Advisory Committee Chair; Elizabeth Campbell Chase, 2026 REALTOR® Party of CA Director; David Stark, Chief Public Affairs & Communications Officer, Bay East AOR

Effective advocacy starts with helping others take their first or next step. This session will show leaders how to leverage their REALTOR® skills to become an advocate and how to build advocates by meeting members where they are – from those just beginning to get involved to those ready to lead others. Through understanding your connection to advocacy and real-world practice, participants will learn how to respond to common questions, address objections, and translate advocacy jargon into compelling messages that resonate with fellow REALTORS® back home.

Eric Schwartz, Emcee; Tamara Suminski, 2026 President

The day wraps with a call to action from C.A.R.’s 2026 Officers. They’ll recap the key takeaways, highlight three things every leader can do right away, and connect the themes of clarity, connection, and action. Attendees will leave energized and ready to play their part in advancing the REALTOR® Party of California.

Dinner, cocktails & entertainment

The beat goes on! Close out REALTOR® Party Day with a poolside evening of dinner, signature cocktails, and lively conversation. Enjoy music, dancing, and a few fun surprises as we come together to celebrate the REALTOR® Party of California.

For registered attendees only. Non-registered guests will not be permitted. Badge required for entry.