2025 Board of Directors Election Results
Election Slate:
- First Vice President (will ascend to 2027 President): Daniel Park vs. Patti Whalen
- Treasurer (two-year term): Katie Ridgway (unopposed)
- General Director (three-year term): Jessica Capatano vs. Rachel Wright
- General Director (three-year term): Jeff Grebe (unopposed)
- General Director (three-year term): Annette Sydes (unopposed)
- County Director (three-year term): Scott Wilson (unopposed)
First Vice President
Daniel Park
My real estate career began in 2013 when I joined RoseRock Capital in Bryan, TX, as Vice President of Operations. I managed commercial properties and guided development initiatives. After nearly two years, my family and I returned to Knoxville, TN, to be closer to family. I continued in commercial real estate until September 2016, when a friend suggested I try residential real estate. I made the switch and have since enjoyed helping clients buy and sell their homes. A highlight of my career was receiving the 2024 Vance Burkey Award from Realty Executives Associates, an honor voted on by peers for professionalism and expertise.
Prior to real estate, I co-founded and managed Mosaic House, a unique accommodation business specializing in hospitality and green technology in Prague, Czech Republic. My responsibilities included design, project management, and operations. Following that, I moved back to the States and served as the Ministry Development Coordinator for Breakaway Ministries at Texas A&M University.
In addition to real estate, I teach and train agents on emotional intelligence, personality types, and managing stress. I am a TREC certified instructor and teach CE classes across our MLS frequently. Nationally, I have led workshops on these topics at various conventions, businesses, and/or real estate firms. My goal each time I speak is to impact at least one person positively.
It's been an honor to serve on the ETNR Board of Directors, DEI Committee, and other aspects of our association.
I hold a B.A. in Psychology from Clemson University and an M.A. in Organizational Leadership from Concordia University, where I also became a certified Professional Coach and Consultant. I mentor new agents at Realty Executives and within the Knoxville Fellows Program. My wife, Brook, and I have four children and support the foster care and adoptive community in Knoxville, being an adoptive family ourselves. For fun, I enjoy running and recently completed the Boston Marathon, with plans to run the NYC Marathon in November.
Treasurer
Katie Ridgway
I love real estate – the people, the properties, the excitement, the commitment, the continuing education, the sales process, the negotiations...everything! Real estate has been in my family for years and I have had the privilege of enjoying this profession since 2010. My career started on the beautiful island of St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Life then moved my family to Knoxville, TN where I have thrived not only in my personal life but also my professional life as a REALTOR®. I adore East Tennessee and I am honored to work in an industry that supports my local community.
I enjoy supporting our real estate community/industry by serving on local and state Boards. I am in my 3rd year as a Director for East Tennessee REALTORS®. I am a long-time member of Women’s Council of REALTORS® Knoxville Network and was President in 2022. I have served on multiple ETNR committees over the years and serve on state level committees for Women’s Council of REALTORS® Tennessee. I am currently attending the Tennessee REALTORS® Academy of Real Estate Advancement (AREA) leadership program. I am an RPAC Major Investor. I very much enjoy volunteering as the room parent for both my kids’ classes. I am the Treasurer for my HOA and I contribute to local charities annually.
Being involved not only in my community but also within my industry is essential. As I continue to grow and learn I sincerely look forward to meeting even more people both personally and professionally.
Director
Jessica Capatano
Let me start by acknowledging the responsibility it is to be considered during such a crucial time for the real estate industry. I’m asking for your support and vote because I’m committed to using my voice for the greater good! To advocate as a member of the board for the best interest of all East Tennessee Realtors Members. My goal is to leverage my skills, work ethic, and experiences to benefit others, and I am eager to bring my dedication to service to this role. I believe in leading by example, demonstrating the values and commitment I hope to bring to this position.
Selfless service is a core value for me, one I’ve embraced throughout my career. It didn’t take decades of a booming career for me to find myself in this room—I see the value here. I’ve been actively involved in our association and the Young Professionals Network (YPN) for two years, including serving as chair this year, and have contributed to the 2024 Presidential Advisory Board and Task Force. My community involvement extends beyond real estate; I’ve served as a grounds chair at local schools, supported veterans' programs, and participated actively in various capacities. Truthfully, I show up in all aspects of who I am, and I am proud of that!
A bit about me: Writing a bio feels a bit awkward because I prefer focusing on the work rather than spotlighting my achievements. If you know me, you might find this part amusing, so let’s dive in. I am a proud wife, mother, and veteran, deeply rooted in a military family with an unwavering moral compass. My family and I absolutely love East Tennessee, a place we are proud to call home. This commitment to our community has guided me throughout my life and career in real estate. In four years, I’ve had the privilege of helping over 350 families achieve their real estate goals, which has been incredibly fulfilling.
I am honored to be running for this board seat and am excited about the opportunity to contribute. I look forward to getting started and making a difference, fully aware of the responsibility this entails, which excites me. I believe my unique experience and dedication make me a strong choice. Thank you for your time, consideration, and support!
Director
Jeff Grebe
I moved to Knoxville in 1982 when my father, Les, joined Clayton Homes. My real estate journey began in 1993, the same year I married an East Tennessee girl, Crystal. Starting with Century 21 AAIM under Dick Scarbrough, I moved to Re/Max Preferred Properties in 1995 under Rich Levenson, and by 1997, I obtained my Broker's license and founded The Buyer's Agent of Knoxville, working exclusively as a Buyer’s Agent. I was joined by my brother Mike and father Les, as the practice grew.
In 2003, we moved into traditional real estate as Advantage Real Estate and late that same year became Tennessee's first Weichert franchise, Weichert, Realtors - Advantage. In 2008, we merged with other area Weichert offices, becoming Weichert, Realtors - Advantage Plus, and have been a top-performing office recognized in the Premier Client Group since 2015.
My leadership extended to the Knoxville Area Association of Realtors (now East TN Realtors), where I was involved with the adoption of the FLEXMLS system in 2012. Elected to the KAAR Board of Directors in 2013, I served as President in 2017, establishing the Leadership KAAR program to nurture new leaders in our association. Honored as KAAR Realtor of the Year in 2018, I continue to prioritize FAITH, FAMILY, and FUTURE in all endeavors.
Crystal and I have raised three wonderful daughters, Madison, Gabrielle, and Morgan. At Weichert, Realtors - Advantage Plus, we embrace a family-centric approach, ensuring that our team and clients feel like part of our extended family.
I am committed to bringing my experience, leadership, and dedication to the East TN Realtors Board of Directors, ensuring our association thrives and grows together.
Director
Annette Sydes
Annette Sydes has been a REALTOR® in Knoxville since 2015. Specializing in residential real estate, Annette has earned accolades for her exceptional client service and professional dedication, including designations as an Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR) and Graduate of the REALTOR® Institute (GRI). She is also a recent graduate of LeadershipKAAR and an upcoming graduate of the Academy of Real Estate Advancement (AREA).
Beyond her client work, Annette actively contributes to several professional organizations, including the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), East Tennessee REALTORS® (ETNR), Tennessee REALTORS® (TR), and the Women's Council of REALTORS® (WCR). Her leadership roles on various ETNR and TR committees, such as the YPN, Grievance, Professional Standards, Public Policy and MLS Committees, highlight her commitment to the profession.
Running for a position on the ETNR Board of Directors, Annette aims to support the association's growth and strategic planning, ensuring the success of REALTORS® and the community.
Proud of her Polish heritage, Annette embodies strong community values. She holds a BS in Microbiology and an MPH in Community Health Education. Before real estate, she worked in infection control and as a consultant for the CDC.
Annette, a devoted wife and mother, loves cooking, outdoor activities, and spending quality time with family and friends. Her diverse background and dedication to helping others make her an ideal candidate for the Board of Directors.
Director
Scott Wilson
Scott is the Principal Broker and Owner of Realty Executives Associates Main Street in Sweetwater, TN, with over 16 years of experience as a REALTOR. He holds CRS, SRS, ABR, GRI, SRES, and RENE designations and certifications. Scott is a member of the Public Policy Committee, the Women's Council of REALTORS Knoxville, and is a 2023 graduate of Leadership KAAR.
Beyond his contributions to the REALTOR association, Scott is deeply involved in his community. Within the City of Loudon, he serves on the Planning Commission, the Property Maintenance and Housing Code Appeals Board, the Industrial Development Board, the Board of Zoning Appeals, and is a member of the Loudon County Chamber of Commerce. He is also very involved in the City of Sweetwater, being a member of the Sweetwater Merchants and Property Owners Association, actively participating in Sweetwater's National Main Street, and serving on the People's Bank Board of Advisors.
Scott's background as a City Planner and Building Official provides him with a unique perspective on navigating the complexities of real estate transactions. His philosophy of prioritizing people over profit guides his interactions with colleagues and community members, fostering meaningful connections and collaborative efforts. As a dedicated leader, Scott is committed to empowering others and making a positive impact on both the real estate industry and the broader community, driving progress and growth for all.