Select the links below to view each individual bio.
Candidates for election
Officers to be elected
 | Jessica Olevsky, Stellar Living, LLCJessica Olevsky is a dedicated advocate for policies that promote entrepreneurship and economic prosperity for REALTORS®. She is committed to elevating professional, ethical and profitability standards while helping others achieve their goals. Jessica looks to strengthen GCAAR’s education, financial resources and mentorship opportunities for agents and brokerages. Her leadership focuses on identifying member needs, creating practical solutions and bringing diverse perspectives together to move initiatives forward. A “roll-up-your-sleeves” leader, Jessica has volunteered extensively throughout the REALTOR® community. She served as President of the Residential Real Estate Council MD/D.C. Chapter and on NAR’s Professional Development and Fair Housing Policy committees, the Maryland REALTORS® Professional Standards and Housing Opportunity committees, and GCAAR’s Grievance and Forms committees. She holds the C2EX endorsement and AHWD™ certification and is a graduate of the Maryland REALTORS® Leadership Academy. Jessica currently serves on the boards of directors for GCAAR, Maryland REALTORS® and NAR, where she advocates for members, strengthens collaboration and helps turn industry challenges into actionable solutions. |
 | Tim Phelps, CompassTim is an Associate Broker with extensive real estate experience and a deep passion for supporting the profession. As a former Supervising Broker, he’s mentored and supported hundreds of real estate professionals, gaining a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities agents face. Tim’s commitment to GCAAR includes three years on the Grievance Committee, two years on the Professional Standards Committee, service on the Forms Committee, and a two-year term on GCAAR’s Board of Directors. He’s also a 2026 graduate of the Maryland REALTORS® Leadership Academy. Tim is running for First Vice President to bring his experience, perspective and collaborative approach to the Executive Committee. He believes leadership starts with listening to colleagues, understanding their needs and ensuring every GCAAR member feels represented, supported and heard. Tim is committed to being a positive, accessible voice for members and strengthening the resources, education, professional standards and advocacy that support our profession, to encourage greater member involvement and move GCAAR forward together. |
Directors to be elected
 | Dustin Borzét, RLAH Real EstateDustin Borzét is an associate broker, having served clients throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia for over 13 years. A strong believer in giving back to the profession, Dustin currently serves as Chair for GCAAR's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee. In this role, he has led initiatives that help promote inclusion, increase member engagement and expand educational opportunities. He spearheaded GCAAR's participation in World Pride in Washington, D.C., helping strengthen the association's visibility and commitment to serving its diverse communities. Throughout his career, he has mentored and trained new agents, reflecting his passion for developing future industry leaders. Beyond real estate, he regularly volunteers with Food & Friends, organizes a REALTORS® team in a LGBTQ+ cornhole league and has served many years in board leadership with the Kiwanis Club of Washington, D.C. Dustin has obtained his Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) designation, the Certified Negotiation Expert (CNE) designation and has been recognized by GCAAR, Washingtonian Magazine, RealTrends and the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance. |
 | April Contee, EXQ Real EstateApril Contee is the broker/owner of an independent brokerage serving the Washington metropolitan area. After 19 years in real estate, she has extensive advocacy, governance and community leadership experience. April has served on GCAAR’s MoCo Public Policy Committee (PPC) since 2021 and the Grievance Committee since 2024. She served as a presidential appointee on the 2024 GCAAR Board of Directors. Her association leadership extends nationally through four years of service on NAR’s Broker Engagement Council representing Washington, D.C., and currently, on NAR’s Housing Opportunities Committee. As a 2026 graduate of the Maryland REALTORS® Leadership Academy, April is also a Maryland REALTORS® State REALTOR® Liaison to State Delegate Aaron M. Kaufman. She is an RPAC Major Investor, a GCAAR DEI Champion, C2EX endorsed, AHWD™ certified and a National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) Realtist®. She is committed to ethical leadership, housing opportunity, REALTOR® advocacy and ensuring independent brokerages have a meaningful voice in shaping the profession’s future, while strengthening collaboration, professionalism and service throughout GCAAR membership. |
 | Jeff Ganz, Century 21 Redwood RealtyJeffrey Ganz has 23 years of experience bringing buyers and sellers together and is committed to providing exceptional service. With extensive knowledge of the local real estate market, contracts and forms, Jeffrey has been actively involved with GCAAR for more than 15 years, having served on GCAAR’s Forms Committee, Grievance Committee and currently on the Professional Standards Committee. In 2023, Jeffrey received an honorable mention for GCAAR ‘s REALTOR® of the Year award. Customer satisfaction is at the heart of his approach. Whether he’s helping first-time buyers through closing or helping sellers navigate to settlement, he believes his job isn’t finished until his clients are completely satisfied. Jeffrey holds the Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI) and Military Relocation Professional MRP™ designations and earned his bachelor’s degree from New York University (NYU) in business administration. A Montgomery County native, he lives in Rockville with his spouse, twins and dogs, was a licensed foster parent for 12 years and currently serves on the City of Rockville’s Transportation and Mobility Commission. |
 | Yves Jean Baptiste, Keller Williams Capital Properties*Yves Jean Baptiste, a first-generation Haitian American, embodies the work-hard, play-hard balance. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., and a graduate of Frostburg State University with a degree in business administration, he discovered his passion for real estate after purchasing his first home. This experience ignited his interest in the investment side of real estate, leading him to become a successful agent in the Washington metropolitan area. Baptiste’s commitment to his clients is unparalleled. He treats every client like family, understanding their journey as he has been in their shoes. His dedication earned him a 2024 GCAAR Gold Recognition Award. He is also the founder of The Baptiste, focusing on real estate development and sales. A trailblazer in his field, he continues to inspire and lead by example, making a significant impact on the lives of his clients and community. Outside of real estate, he enjoys working out, playing basketball, watching football and spending time with his two children and wife. |
 | Tony Mancuso, TTR Sotheby's International RealtyTony Mancuso is a trusted real estate advisor with more than 23 years of experience serving Washington, D.C. and Maryland. Known for his discretion, market intelligence and steady performance record, he has represented clients with over $500 million in closed sales and acquisitions. He is the co-founder of The Daly Mancuso Group, a partnership defined by long-standing client relationships and a highly tailored approach. His leadership within the industry is both established and influential. He served as 2023 President for the D.C. Association of REALTORS® (DCAR) and helps shape regional policy as current Chair of the Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS® (GCAAR) D.C. Public Policy Committee, as well as through his role with the Maryland REALTORS® RPAC Trustees Committee. |
 | Theresa Nielson, TTR Sotheby's International Realty*Theresa Nielson serves as the Managing Broker for the Montgomery County, MD offices of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty. Licensed in D.C., Maryland and Virginia, Theresa began her career in marketing at a boutique architecture and development firm before shifting to real estate in 2003. Since then, the offices she has led have consistently ranked among the top-performing in the region. A native Washingtonian, Theresa loves traveling with her family and their two dogs. She is committed to the community she serves and supports a variety of non-profits. Currently, Theresa serves on the Board of Glen Echo Park, as well as Transformer, a visual arts organization supporting emerging artists and art leaders in the D.C. area. Theresa is actively involved with GCAAR, where she supports initiatives that advance professional development, ethical standards and advocacy for the real estate community. Her commitment to elevating the profession aligns with her passion for mentoring the next generation of real estate professionals and promoting excellence across every facet of the industry. |
 | Brandon Scott, Keller Williams Capital PropertiesWith a passion for helping people achieve their real estate goals and a proven track record in the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia market, Brandon M. Scott is more than just a REALTOR®. He’s a strategic partner in the home-buying or selling journey. From Atlanta, where he began his mortgage finance career at 17 years old, Brandon has called D.C. home for the last 15 years. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor or a homeowner looking to maximize your sales, his expertise, market insight and personalized approach set him apart. He’s a husband and father to one. |
 | Michael Taft, Coldwell Banker RealtyMichael Taft is deeply connected to the Washington, D.C. community. Having moved to D.C. at just six months old, he considers himself a native Washingtonian. As a product of local schools and a long-term Georgetown resident, he has a firsthand understanding of the pulse of the city, especially its emerging and rapidly growing neighborhoods. He knows the schools, recreational offerings, golf courses, clubs and restaurants that make D.C. a vibrant place to live. Over the years, he has witnessed the city undergo an amazing transformation and has developed a unique perspective on both its history and continued growth. Michael’s background in development, fundraising and public relations has shaped his approach as a REALTOR® and strengthened his ability to serve clients, build relationships and navigate the complexities of a transaction. These experiences have also given him a deep appreciation for the “art of the deal” and the importance of creative problem-solving. An avid golfer, Michael is always happy to share recommendations on the best places to tee it up. |
 | Monique Van Blaricom, RLAH Real Estate*Monique Van Blaricom is a passionate and dedicated REALTOR® licensed in D.C., Maryland and Virginia known for her strategic approach, attention to detail and commitment to exceptional service. Drawing from her own home buying and selling experiences, she helps clients confidently navigate every stage of the transaction while building lasting relationships rooted in trust and clear communication. Her dedication to excellence was recognized early in her career when she was named 2022 GCAAR Rookie of the Year. In addition, she was named as one of NAR's 2024 30 Under 30 honorees and is a Washingtonian Top Agent (2022-2026), reflecting her leadership, dedication and influence in the industry. Beyond serving clients, Monique is passionate about advancing the real estate industry through leadership and education. She served on GCAAR’s Community Service Committee for four years, chairing the committee in 2024. She currently serves on the GCAAR Board of Directors, enjoys mentoring newer agents and sharing best practices with colleagues. |
 | Michele Young, Compass*Michele Young has been an active REALTOR® for 20 years and enjoys helping clients buy and sell homes in Maryland and Washington, D.C. The relationships she has created have stayed strong where families have returned to her throughout their different life stages. Michele helps navigate the nuances of a sale, from preparing a home for listing to finding a new location that better suits the next stage. Throughout her real estate career, she has served on multiple committees and boards, volunteering her time to help those communities and populations in need. The great relationships she creates help bring almost any deal to closing. She would welcome the opportunity to serve again on GCAAR’s Board of Directors, especially at a time when the state and its counties are navigating significant changes. By remaining an active and vocal member of the board, she believes she can provide a voice to help home buyers and sellers continue to want to reside in our region. |
Returning board members: Officers
 | President: M. Jacqueline Bennett, RE/MAX Excellence RealtyJackie Bennett is a REALTOR® with RE/MAX Excellence Realty, serving Washington, D.C. and Maryland. A GCAAR member since its inception, she has contributed to numerous committees, including Grievance, Legislative/Public Policy, Forms, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and its Board of Directors. She currently chairs the GCAAR Global Business Committee and serves on the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Global Business Alliance Committee and Board of Directors. Jackie is a 2014 graduate of the Maryland REALTORS® Leadership Academy and held leadership roles across several Maryland State Association committees, including serving as 2023 Chair of the Global Business Council. She holds the CIPS, AHWD, MRP and PMN designations and is C2EX certified. Jackie is active in the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, Maryland, where she has served as the Maryland State Network President, Governor and State Liaison. Jackie is a U.S. Army Veteran. She values service to country, community and the real estate industry. She is a strong advocate for a member-centric association and looks forward to continuing her service to GCAAR and its membership. |
 | President-elect: Ileann Jimenez-Sepulveda, Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.Ileann is a highly accomplished REALTOR® with a 25-year track record of serving clients in the D.C. metro area. She's a member of the Long & Foster Chevy Chase Circle office and actively volunteers within the local real estate community. Her commitment to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in real estate is evident through her leadership roles. In 2023, she chaired GCAAR’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion committee, building on her co-chair role in 2022, and appointment in 2021. Ileann also served as a D.C. board member with the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance in 2022, 2023 and 2025. As one-half of the renowned Sepulveda Team alongside partner Hector Sepulveda, their partnership has earned many awards and recognition. Ileann's love for the Washington, D.C. area is apparent in her appreciation for its unique blend of community, politics, architecture and culture. She actively supports the community through organizations like The Sitar Arts Center. Ileann's unwavering dedication to building inclusionary communities in the DMV is a testament to her personal and professional journey as a REALTOR®. |
 | Immediate Past President: Russell Brazil, RLAH Real EstateRussell is an associate broker with RLAH @properties, licensed in 18 states and founder of District Invest Group, a team of REALTORS® dedicated to helping investors build long-term wealth through real estate. As a D.C. metro area resident for nearly two decades, he began his career as an investor before transitioning into full-time real estate sales over 11 years ago. Committed to the real estate community, he currently serves as the 2026 GCAAR president, a member of the GCAAR Board of Directors for five years, has served on the Public Policy Committee for eight years, Director for the National Association of REALTORS® and recently elected as At-Large Director for Maryland REALTORS®. His industry leadership is matched by consistent professional recognition named Top Producing Agent by Washingtonian magazine, Bethesda Magazine and Virginia Living magazine, along with Rising Star by D.C. Metro Real Producers magazine. In addition to his brokerage and leadership, Russell is a frequent speaker at REIAs and investment conferences. He is a strong advocate for real estate professionals, homeowners and investors, focusing on the intersection of equity issues and housing policy. |
Returning board members: Directors
 | Bruce Cotting, RLAH Real EstateAlthough born and raised in Guam, Bruce is a 40+ year resident of Silver Spring, where he resides with his wife, Jennifer, and raised their four children. His client-centric approach is fueled by the desire to eliminate his parents’ stressful experience of moving their family halfway around the world, exacerbated by the pressures of finding a home and simultaneously getting their children into schools. As a referral-based REALTOR®, his personable, consultative customer service combined with great energy and enthusiasm for his clients’ goals earn him consistent referrals. Bruce served on the GCAAR Education Committee from 2014-2019, led the Professional Development Subcommittee in 2018 and is a current member of the Grievance committee. He maintains his GRI, ABR, SRS and MRP designations. Bruce has been a member of the Fr. Rosensteel Council Knights of Columbus since 2012 and was elected as Grand Knight in 2017. In addition to his volunteer efforts in the Catholic community, he has been a member of the Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce since 2013 and was selected as the 2023 “GSSCC Volunteer of The Year” for his volunteer efforts. |
 | Nelson Fuentes, Keller Williams Capital PropertiesNelson is a dynamic, tech-savvy real estate agent proudly serving the MD, D.C. and VA areas, born and raised in the DMV. His deep local knowledge allows him to navigate the region like the back of his hand. And as a bilingual agent fluent in Spanish, he’s passionate about helping families achieve their dreams, often guiding them to possibilities they never thought were within reach. Beyond his role as an agent, he is an educator in his community, empowering friends and clients with knowledge about real estate and investment opportunities. He’s also a business owner and investor, bringing a multifaceted perspective to his clients’ journeys. In his spare time, Nelson is an active participant in the DMV comedy scene, performing stand-up at renowned venues like DC Improv, Hotbed Comedy Club, Virginia State Theatre and The Port Comedy Club in Baltimore. With him, you can expect a vibrant, engaging experience—your journey will be anything but dull! |
 | Hank May, Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.Born and raised in Montgomery County, Md., Hank began his real estate career as a full-time REALTOR® in 1999. With over 26 years of experience, he is known to be a problem solver and strives to contribute to the real estate industry in a positive manner. He specializes in traditional real estate and land transactions, where he helps evaluate vacant land and its potential uses, assess property conditions and work with affiliated partners to ensure smooth transactions. In addition to his experience, he has earned the SRS, ABR, SRES and AHWD designations. He has served on GCAAR’s Forms committee for over 20 years and the Grievance committee. In his spare time, he’s worked as an election judge in Montgomery County for over 15 years serving in several capacities with the Board of Elections and is the secretary of the Board of Directors for his church. Hank is a United States Army Special Forces, Special Operations veteran who served two tours in Vietnam and awarded the Bronze Star and Army Commendation medals. He lives in Colesville on a small farm with his four cats and assorted barnyard critters. |
 | D’Ann Melnick, eXp Realty, LLCAfter graduating from The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in communication studies, D’Ann began her real estate career with a production home builder before obtaining her real estate license in 2003. In 2005, she earned her broker's license and relocated to the D.C. metro area. Since moving to eXp Realty in 2021, she’s earned the prestigious ICON award (2022, 2023, 2024) and was placed in eXp’s Top 250 Individual Agent within eXp Realty nationwide for the last three years. She has been named a Top Producer by Bethesda and Washingtonian magazines, D.C. Metro Real Producers (Top 250) and one of D.C.'s Best Real Estate Agents by Modern Luxury. D'Ann has earned the Real Estate Collaboration Specialist – Divorce designation and the Military Relocation Professional certifications. She is also a member of the Residential Real Estate Council and a Certified Residential Specialist. Over the years, she has served on various GCAAR committees, including Community Service, Grievance, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Professional Standards committee. |
| Jessica Olevsky, Stellar Living, LLCJessica Olevsky is a dedicated advocate for policies that promote entrepreneurship and economic prosperity for REALTORS®. She is committed to elevating professional, ethical and profitability standards while helping others achieve their goals. Jessica looks to strengthen GCAAR’s education, financial resources and mentorship opportunities for agents and brokerages. Her leadership focuses on identifying member needs, creating practical solutions and bringing diverse perspectives together to move initiatives forward. A “roll-up-your-sleeves” leader, Jessica has volunteered extensively throughout the REALTOR® community. She served as President of the Residential Real Estate Council MD/D.C. Chapter and on NAR’s Professional Development and Fair Housing Policy committees, the Maryland REALTORS® Professional Standards and Housing Opportunity committees, and GCAAR’s Grievance and Forms committees. She holds the C2EX endorsement and AHWD™ certification and is a graduate of the Maryland REALTORS® Leadership Academy. Jessica currently serves on the boards of directors for GCAAR, Maryland REALTORS® and NAR, where she advocates for members, strengthens collaboration and helps turn industry challenges into actionable solutions. |
 | Christopher Rhodes, Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.A native Washingtonian, Chris Rhodes began his real estate career with Long & Foster in 1999 and in 2000 was named Rookie of the Year for the D.C. Metro area for Long & Foster. In just a few years he was a Top Producer for the company and was at the top 1% of the nation in real estate sales. Over the years, he has earned a reputation as a consummate professional and knowledgeable, reliable resource for the countless buyers, sellers, investors and developers whom he's helped to realize their unique real estate goals. Chris' unparalleled expertise, service, market/pricing insight and negotiating skills are what ensure utmost success with every deal. He is licensed in Maryland, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Virginia and Delaware. Chris also enjoys serving his community where he has volunteered his time and talents to the homeless, feeding the less fortunate and organizing community donations to help the poor through various non-profit organizations. |
 | Kirsten Williams, TTR Sotheby’s International RealtyKirsten began her real estate career in the Washington, D.C. area in 1997 and quickly became a top-producing agent and respected industry leader. She currently serves as Managing Broker of TTR Sotheby’s International Realty’s Chevy Chase office, overseeing 60+ agents. Known for her professionalism, deep market knowledge, and personal approach, Kirsten enjoys providing guidance to her agents, buyers and sellers alike. A dedicated real estate professional, Kirsten is passionate about elevating the industry and advocating for her colleagues and clients. She is committed to continuing her service and would be honored to serve two more years on the GCAAR Board of Directors. Kirsten currently serves on the Forms and Professional Standards committee and has previously chaired the Grievance and Forms committee. She actively volunteers with local organizations, serves on the Chevy Chase Historical Society board, Chevy Chase United Methodist Church leadership board and enjoys tennis, biking, and time with her husband, two daughters, and their Labrador, Flounder. |
Affiliate board member (non-voting)
 | Dan Cumberland, Moyer and Sons Moving & Storage (non-voting affiliate member)Dan Cumberland serves as the Marketing Director for Moyer & Sons Moving & Storage, where he has proudly led the company’s marketing strategy and business development since 2018. Born and raised in Montgomery County, he has known the Moyer family his entire life, making his transition to the moving industry a natural fit. In his role, Dan oversees marketing initiatives, account management, project evaluation and research efforts, while contributing to business development and sales team training. His leadership and dedication have earned him numerous industry recognitions, including GCAAR's Affiliate of the Year and serving twice as chair for GCAAR's Community Service Committee. Dan lives in Gaithersburg with his family and outside of work, he enjoys traveling and occasionally pretending to play golf. |