The North Carolina Appraisal Institute proudly recognized the recipients of the 2025 NCAI Chapter Awards at the Q4 Chapter Business Meeting & Installation Ceremony held on December 11 in Greenville, North Carolina. These newly established chapter awards honor outstanding service, leadership, innovation, and lasting contributions that strengthen both our chapter and the appraisal profession.
Approved by the NCAI Board of Directors earlier this year, the Chapter Awards were created to celebrate members whose dedication and impact exemplify the mission and values of the North Carolina Appraisal Institute. Each award recipient will receive a framed certificate, recognition across NCAI media platforms, a press release for local distribution, and one complimentary Continuing Education (CE) registration (up to seven hours) to be used within the following year.
2025 Award Recipients
NCAI Impact Award
Vanessa Hall, MAI, AI-GRS
The Impact Award recognizes an individual whose service at the regional or national level has had a transformative and measurable impact on the appraisal profession and on appraisers across North Carolina. Vanessa Hall was honored for her leadership, influence, and meaningful contributions that continue to advance the profession.
NCAI Leadership Award

Mike Elwell, MAI, SRA
The Leadership Award honors sustained dedication and service to the chapter over a five-year period. Mike Elwell was recognized for his unwavering commitment to the long-term success of NCAI through leadership roles, volunteer service, and continued engagement in chapter initiatives.
NCAI Innovator’s Award

Brian Crowder, MAI, SRA & Erica Butler, MAI
The Innovator’s Award recognizes members who introduced and successfully executed innovative ideas or initiatives during the past year. Brian Crowder and Erica Butler were honored for their creativity, initiative, and forward-thinking efforts that strengthened the chapter and enhanced member engagement.
NCAI Legacy Award
Joel Tate, SRA & Rocky McElhannon, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS
The Legacy Award honors individuals whose long-standing service and dedication have left a lasting impact on the chapter and the appraisal profession. Joel Tate and Rocky McElhannon were recognized for their enduring contributions, mentorship, and leadership that have helped shape the North Carolina Appraisal Institute.
NCAI congratulates all of the 2025 award recipients and thanks them for their dedication, leadership, and service to the chapter and the appraisal profession. Congratulations to all the winners!
