The National Association of Realtors (NAR) announced on Monday that its president, Kenny Parcell, has resigned following allegations of sexual harassment. This decision comes after complaints from current and former NAR employees were outlined in an article published by the New York Times. The allegations include claims of improper touching, as well as the sending of lewd photos and texts.
Despite the accusations, Parcell denied any wrongdoing mentioned in the Times article. Parcell had been a real estate agent in Utah and had worked his way up through the NAR’s leadership positions over the years.
The resignation is effective immediately, and Tracy Kasper, NAR’s president-elect, will take over Parcell’s remaining one-year term. Kasper expressed the need to rebuild a culture of trust within the association, where all members and employees feel safe to speak up. She acknowledged the concerns expressed by those who came forward with their stories and perspectives.
The NAR is a powerful association with substantial assets and a political action committee that raised millions of dollars in the recent election cycle. It controls access to almost every home listing in the country and is the largest professional association in the United States, with over a million members.
Following Parcell’s resignation, NAR’s CEO, Bob Goldberg, apologized to the organization’s staff, expressing the commitment to address their concerns and rebuild trust. The NAR emphasizes its dedication to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for its staff and members, free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
Sources: New York Times, CNN