DeLise Simmons

Key Realty

At-Large Director

WHY DO YOU WANT TO SERVE AS A DIRECTOR?

I wish to serve as a Director because I am passionate about contributing to the growth, stability, and impact of the organization. Serving in this capacity allows me to use my experience, knowledge, and relationships to help strengthen our programs and initiatives. I believe in leading through service, collaboration, and integrity, and I am committed to advancing the mission while helping to create opportunities that benefit our members and the communities we serve.

Number of Years Licensed

18

Type of License Held

Salesperson

Education

Owens Community College, Associate of Science, Business Administration – Cum Laude

NOR INVOLVEMENT

2025 – 2026 Leadership Academy participant

I am eager to become more actively involved with NOR. I am committed to learning, serving, and assisting wherever needed to help strengthen our collective impact.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Community service and engagement are at the heart of who I am – both personally and professionally. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in roles and participate in organizations that focus on empowerment, education, and equitable access to housing.

The Greater Toledo Realtist Association (GTRA) is a Trade Organization whose mantra is Democracy in Housing and I have served as a Board Member and Treasurer of this organization for the past two years. In June of this year I accepted a Board of Director position at Toledo Urban Federal Credit Union, which is Toledo’s first Community Development Credit Union, that offers financial literacy and focuses on serving and empowering the underbanked members of our community. Through my real estate business and community partnerships, I have collaborated with NeighborWorks Toledo and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity to promote homeownership education and support.

Beyond housing initiatives, I am passionate about mentoring youth and currently serve as an Assistant Advisor for the Toledo Chapter of the Top Teens of America organization which is an integral part of the national Top Ladies of Distinction organization. Additionally, I am a Board Member and Secretary for The Padua Center, which is a Christian community-based organization that focuses on empowering people at all stages of life with a specific focus on children. Acknowledging that children are our future, The Padua Center offers an After School Tutoring Program for school age children and also a Children’s Summer Camp.

Currently, I continue to stay active in community events, professional development programs, and initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods, promote financial stability, and inspire the next generation to achieve more. My goal is to keep serving as a connector – linking people, resources, and opportunities to help our community grow stronger together.

FINANCIAL OVERSIGHT EXPERIENCE

My career in finance began in 1988 when I was offered and accepted a position at a local bank. During my eight-year tenure there I learned all of the dynamics of the banking and finance industry, that experience and training formed the solid foundation that I continued to build on over the years. My experience also includes serving more than seven years as an Assistant Manager at a local credit union. In that capacity, I gained comprehensive experience and assisted with multiple areas of the financial operations while also witnessing firsthand the disparities that exist within the community. I was especially grateful for the opportunity to assist underbanked individuals by offering guidance on credit and promoting financial education and literacy.

Throughout the years I have acquired extensive experience in financial oversight through both my professional background and board service. I have managed budgets, reviewed financial statements, and ensured compliance with policies and reporting requirements. In my current role as Treasurer and Board Member, I maintain accurate records, monitor expenditures, and collaborate with leadership to support fiscal responsibility and transparency.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS EXPERIENCE

My experience in Government Affairs stems from my active involvement in real estate and community development initiatives that align with housing advocacy and policy awareness. As a REALTOR® and REALTIST®, I make every effort to stay informed about local issues that impact homeownership, fair housing, and community investment. Admittedly I need to commit more focus on state and national issues.

I have participated in advocacy efforts, attended housing forums, and engaged with local leaders and partner organizations such as the City of Toledo, NeighborWorks Toledo, and Lucas County Land Bank, as well as local lenders, to support equitable access to housing. I believe in the importance of maintaining strong relationships with community stakeholders to help shape positive outcomes for residents and property owners alike.

COMMUNICATIONS EXPERIENCE

Through years of providing excellent client service, engaging in community outreach, and serving in various leadership roles, I have developed strong communication skills. My experience includes public speaking and collaborating with diverse groups to achieve shared goals. I value clear, respectful, and transparent communication as the foundation for building trust and lasting relationships.

STRATEGIC PLANNING EXPERIENCE

While my direct experience in strategic planning is limited, I have gained valuable insight through my roles as a REALTOR®, REALTIST®, and Board Member. I thrive in collaborative environments, working closely with colleagues and fellow board members to contribute ideas, support initiatives, and help achieve shared goals. I value teamwork and believe collective input leads to the most effective strategic outcomes.

TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE

Having a strong working knowledge of technology is essential in my role as a REALTOR®. I regularly use digital tools to manage real estate transactions, communication, and marketing. My experience includes MLS systems, electronic signatures, virtual meetings, and social media platforms that help streamline processes and enhance client and community engagement. I’m always eager to learn new technologies that promote efficiency and productivity.

REAL ESTATE TRENDS EXPERIENCE

As a REALTOR® and REALTIST®, it is essential that I stay informed about local and national real estate trends. I actively track housing data such as pricing, inventory levels, days on market, and interest rate impacts to provide accurate guidance to clients. I also monitor neighborhood shifts, new developments, and revitalization projects that influence property demand.

Understanding how lending programs, affordability, and economic factors affect the market is vital to my role. Through ongoing industry training, association updates, and local housing reports, I work to stay ahead of market changes while remaining mindful of how these trends impact equity, access, and opportunities within diverse communities.

LEADERSHIP EXPERIENCE

Serving as a Board Member, Treasurer, and Secretary has allowed me to help shape goals, manage responsibilities, and support informed decision-making within each organization. I value collaboration and mentorship, as they provide opportunities to share knowledge and help others succeed. I have assisted in coordinating numerous community events, workshops, and outreach programs to advance organizational missions. I also take initiative in professional development, volunteer for new opportunities, and strive to lead by example through integrity and service.