Today we’d like to introduce you to Suzanne Westrum.
Hi Suzanne, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I became CEO of the Greater Fort Worth Association of REALTORS® (GFWAR) in February 2024, leading the city’s largest trade association with more than 5,000 members. My REALTOR® association career began in my hometown of San Antonio, where I joined the San Antonio Board of REALTORS® as Communications Director. Over the course of nine years, I advanced to Vice President of Communications and Marketing, gaining a deep understanding of member engagement, advocacy and the evolving role of associations in supporting real estate professionals.
Throughout my career, I discovered a true passion for strategy, which is bringing people, ideas and resources together to create meaningful impact. That passion ultimately led me to pursue the path of becoming an Association Executive. I was honored to serve as CEO of the Prescott Area Association of REALTORS® in Arizona for nearly three years, where I further developed my leadership style and broadened my perspective on association management.
Returning to Texas to lead GFWAR felt like both a professional milestone and a homecoming. Today, I’m focused on positioning the association and our members for long-term success in a rapidly changing industry, while strengthening our role as a trusted voice in the Fort Worth community.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Like any meaningful career, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. One of the most valuable pieces of advice I’ve received is to be confident in what you know while staying committed to learning what you don’t. That mindset has been essential in navigating both the expected and unexpected moments that come with leadership.
In the REALTOR® association world, change is constant, whether it’s shifts in the market, evolving member needs or organizational growth. Learning to adapt while remaining grounded in your mission is critical. I’ve also learned the importance of surrounding myself with talented individuals who bring different perspectives and areas of expertise. Strong leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening, asking the right questions and creating an environment where people feel empowered to contribute.
A recent example of this was the merger with the Greater Lewisville Association of REALTORS®. Leading that initiative required thoughtful communication, collaboration and a willingness to learn from both organizations’ leadership. Our goal was to create a seamless transition that honored the strengths of each association while building something even stronger together. Experiences like that reinforce the importance of leading with purpose, clarity and a genuine commitment to those you serve.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Established in 1918, GFWAR represents over 5,000 REALTOR® and affiliate members dedicated to protecting homeownership, upholding high professional standards, and fostering unity within the real estate profession.
GFWAR members are also part of Texas REALTORS® and the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), upholding the highest ethical standards and working to protect property rights and affordable homeownership.
As REALTORS®, GFWAR members have the ability to reach every member of our society. We work to serve each prospective client, customer and member of our community with a commitment to equity and inclusion, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, disability, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity.
Advocacy is at the core of what we do. Through strong advocacy at the local, state, and national levels, GFWAR works to champion issues that expand access to homeownership, protect private property rights, and create a balanced, thriving real estate market for all. We support policies that strengthen communities and serve as a voice for our members and the clients they represent, ensuring that real estate remains accessible, fair, and responsive to the needs of our region.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Mentorship has been pivotal in my journey, especially early on with strong female association leaders in San Antonio who modeled confidence, resilience and values-driven leadership. Guidance from national association leaders later broadened my perspective, showing me the strategic impact our work has on communities and the profession. Their support not only shaped how I lead today but also inspires my commitment to mentor and empower the next generation of female leaders.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.GFWAR.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gfwar_news/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/GFWARTV
