Michael Bernadyn, a Realtor with RE/MAX Real Estate, Allentown, was sworn in as the new president of the Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors (GLVR) at a Jan. 23 induction ceremony, Woodstone Country Club, Danielsville, Lehigh Township.

Bernadyn, a fulltime Realtor since 2013, succeeds GLVR President Lori Campbell of Coldwell Banker Heritage Real Estate.

The president of the association holds the position for one year and is elected by a nominating committee, which consists of the past president and two directors.

Howard Schaeffer, who previously served two terms as GLVR president, did the honors of installing Bernadyn, his nephew, as GLVR president.

Speaking in front of nearly 200 real estate professionals, the incoming president gave a positive, uplifting message after what some would call a tumultuous year for the real estate industry.

“I want us to lean into change,” Bernadyn said. “Right now, our industry has a rare ‘second chance’ to redefine the role of real estate agents.

“We’re no longer just licensees or salespeople. We’re trusted advisors. We’re skilled professionals who guide people through some of the most important financial and emotional decisions of their lives,” said Bernadyn.

“It costs nothing to be part of change and growth. What it requires is commitment, an open mind, and a willingness to move beyond the ‘we’ve always done it this way’ mindset.

“If we can do that together, there’s no limit to what we can achieve as an association, as professionals, and as advocates for our clients and communities,” said Bernadyn.

In addition to serving on the Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors Board of Directors, Bernadyn has a long, established history of service with the association. He has been on various committees, including MLS, Professional Standards, Government Affairs, Diversity and Community Involvement, and New Member Orientation. He previously served on multiple committees for the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors.

Bernadyn is an Advisory Committee member for the Paralegal and Legal Studies Program at Northampton Community College.