Anchored in Advocacy: REALTORS® and Elected Officials Gather for Legislative Reception
Chesapeake, VA (October 9, 2025) — The Hampton Roads REALTORS® Association (HRRA) hosted its annual Legislative Reception in early October, welcoming elected officials and REALTOR® leaders aboard for an evening of advocacy, collaboration, and community impact—all with a nautical twist.
Held at the HRRA headquarters, the reception celebrated the enduring partnership between REALTORS® and legislators, with remarks from HRRA CEO Dr. Dawn Kennedy, HRRA Government Affairs Committee Chair Jennifer Dawn, HRRA President of the Board Jay Mitchell, Virginia State Senator and REALTOR® Angelia Williams Graves, and Virginia REALTORS® President Lorraine Arora.
“Tonight is about partnership— REALTORS® and legislators, working together, to keep our industry strong,” said Dr. Kennedy. In attendance were Senator Angelia Williams Graves, Virginia Beach Mayor Bobby Dyer, Delegate Bonita Anthony and other members of the Virginia House of Delegates, Isle of Wight County Board of Supervisors Chairman Don Rosie, and city councilmembers from Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach.
Senator Williams Graves, representing Virginia’s 21st District, delivered a heartfelt speech reflecting on her dual role as a legislator and REALTOR®. “We do more than sell homes,” she said. “We create pathways to sustainability, belonging, and generational wealth.” She addressed key issues including housing affordability and the impact of federal uncertainty on real estate transactions, pledging to advocate for solutions in the upcoming General Assembly session.
Virginia REALTORS® President Lorraine Arora emphasized the strength of the REALTOR® network through the three-way agreement between the local, state, and national associations. “This agreement is not bureaucracy—it’s family,” she said. “It amplifies our voice, multiplies our influence, and safeguards our profession.”
HRRA President Jay Mitchell underscored the importance of collaboration. “We [REALTORS®] celebrate what it is you [elected officials] do with us— not for us, it's with us. It's a collaborative effort every day.”
As the evening concluded, guests were invited to raise a glass to smooth sailing ahead. “When REALTORS® and legislators pull together,” said Jennifer Dawn, “we all reach safe harbor.”
