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47 2 0 2 4 W O M E N I N H O U S I N G A W A R D S September 2024 ยป initiatives focused on workforce diversity, career development, financial literacy, and supplier diversity. CIFS's impactful programs include regional FinServ Summits, where housing and economic insights and collaboration drive progress. VRM University-hosted DEI courses equip professionals with tools and knowledge to elevate their business as well as personal lives, while FinServ Now! webinars deliver interactive financial literacy education and informative experiences. Tiffany's dedication to social responsibility and CIFS's far-reaching programs are making a significant, positive impact on the financial services industry and the communities it serves." WHAT THIS NOMINATION MEANS TO HER "This nomination for the Corporate Social Responsibility Award is a shared achieve- ment with the entire Council for Inclu- sion in Financial Services (CIFS) team. Together, we work tirelessly year-round to champion diversity across all facets of fi- nancial services, from workforce inclusion to financial literacy, ensuring that everyone has the resources to shape their finan- cial future. I am deeply grateful for this recognition, which stands as a testament to the impact of our collective efforts. This nomination reinforces my commitment to continuing this important work and inspires me to push further in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the financial services industry. I am excited to continue leading CIFS as we break new ground and create even more opportuni- ties for meaningful change." HEIDI IVERSON VP of Strategic Partnerships, Mobility Market Intelligence "Heidi's relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with her strategic utilization of data-driven insights, positions her as a transformative figure within the mortgage industry. Through her leadership at MMI, she not only drives growth and innovation but also empowers industry professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape. She is a frequent speaker on webinars and events and is heavily involved in the National Association of Minority Mortgage Bankers of America. Heidi's events have led to more than 500 executives and recruiting leaders attending. In doing so, she not only elevates awareness of MMI's offerings but also fosters a culture of innovation and informed decision-making within the mortgage community. Heidi's background includes consulting and recruiting, which has laid the foundation for her leadership and efforts in making the mortgage industry more diverse and equitable for all." WHAT THIS NOMINATION MEANS TO HER "This nomination is meaningful to me because it reflects my dedication over the past decade to helping others through data-driven strategies, promoting diversity, and making real contributions to the mortgage industry. It is a testament to the values I strive to uphold and reinforces my dedication to fostering a culture of innova- tion and inclusivity within our community. Being recognized is also an acknowledg- ment of both my personal efforts and the collective impact of our work at MMI to empower lenders and loan officers with the tools and information necessary to fuel progress. I am deeply grateful for this recognition, which inspires me to continue advocating for increased inclusion within executive leadership and creating home- ownership opportunities for underserved communities. This nomination not only honors our achievements but also motivates me to persist in driving positive change and supporting the growth and success of others in our industry." LOUISE THAXTON CEO, American Warrior Initiative; Branch Manager, Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation "Louise Thaxton is the National Director of the Military Mortgage Specialist, a designation exclusive to loan professionals of Fairway Mortgage, which trains and equips loan professionals on working with military clients. Louise is a national advocate for America's veterans and is the Director and co-founder of the American Warrior Initiative, leading the way for hundreds of initiatives for veterans in need across the country, inspiring millions of dollars in donations to fund those initiatives. Louise and her team have taken this message to over 35,000 real estate agents and other business professionals around the country at the American Warrior Real Estate Professional Boot Camps, bringing awareness of the challenges facing the men and women who have served in the military. Louise and AWI have spearheaded hundreds of give-back initiatives to the wounded heroes of America. These wounded heroes have been served through the gifting of over 350 service dogs, business grants, home upgrades, mortgage-free housing, and more." WHAT THIS NOMINATION MEANS TO HER "Working as a mortgage lender in a military town for the past two decades, witnessing firsthand the devastating physical, mental, and emotional impacts of war, I felt the call to spread the message of 'bridging the military-civil- ian divide,' bringing awareness of the challenges that face our combat veterans. Leaders of Fairway and its CEO, Steve Jacobson, listened with their heart to these challenges 12 years ago and stepped up to help by underwriting 100% of the overhead cost of the nonprofit American Warrior Initiative. Millions of dollars have been donated by Fairway employ- ees to fund hundreds of initiatives for veterans, including funding of 371 service dogs. This award means so much to me, hopefully shedding light on the war that is still going on in the lives of combat veterans. More than 22 veterans per day are taking their own lives. Americans must step up to do something. My hope is that every company in America has a give-back program for veterans. They deserve it."