ALTA Announces Winners of 2024 ALTA Our Values Awards
October 24, 2024
ALTA announced the winners of the 2024 ALTA Our Values Awards during ALTA ONE, which was held Oct. 15-18 in Orlando, Fla.
The awards program showcases the title insurance industry’s Our Values initiative, which serves as a cultural compass and highlights core ideals ALTA members embrace.
Jeff McEvoy, chief managing member and managing attorney of Home Surety Title and Escrow LLC in Memphis, Tenn., was honored for his tireless dedication to using his industry expertise to benefit disadvantaged communities. Through his leadership, McEvoy has spearheaded initiatives that bring together lenders, legislators, real estate professionals and other stakeholders to create housing opportunities for people in need. McEvoy’s work has led to transformative change in Memphis, including through legislation allowing for the development of affordable housing. Along with leadership roles at ALTA and the Tennessee Mortgage Bankers Association, his service extends to roles on the boards of Convergence Memphis, the Homebuilder Education Foundation, the Memphis Area Association of Realtors and United Housing Inc.
“I am deeply honored to receive the ALTA Our Values Award,” McEvoy said. “Over the past 35 years, through the challenges and triumphs of the real estate market, we’ve built more than a company—we’ve built a place where dreams are unlocked. Every day, my team and I are committed to doing the right thing, believing the best in every situation, and taking pride in the products we deliver. We strive to be superheroes for our clients, and, most importantly, to enjoy the journey together. This recognition is a testament to the values that guide us, and I share this award with everyone who has been part of our mission.”
Sean Holland, underwriting counsel for Fidelity National Title Group in Seattle, Wash., until his retirement this summer, was recognized for his contributions to the title industry’s state and national legislative efforts. He worked to combat predatory real estate fee agreements that exploit homeowners and coined the term by which these products have become known: Non-Title Recorded Agreements for Personal Services (NTRAPS). Holland’s efforts have been pivotal in Washington State, where he was a leader in the Washington Land Title Association’s support for one of the nation’s first laws aimed at curbing these deceptive practices. His commitment to consumer protection has been a hallmark of his career. He was a key advocate for the passage of remote online notarization (RON) legislation in Washington. As co-chair of the Washington Land Title Association Legislative Committee and a member of the ALTA State Legislative/Regulatory Action Committee, Holland has devoted hundreds of hours to reviewing and shaping legislation that safeguards consumers and the real estate industry.
"It is an incredible honor to be recognized with the ALTA Our Values Award,” Holland said. “This award highlights the importance of protecting consumers, which underlies everything we do. I’m proud to have played a role in shaping legislation that safeguards homeowners and strengthens our industry. It was a privilege to work with so many title professionals who are willing to devote an immense amount of time and effort to legislative issues."
"Jeff McEvoy and Sean Holland truly embody the spirit of ALTA’s core values through their leadership, dedication and commitment to protecting consumers and uplifting communities,” ALTA CEO Diane Tomb said. “Their work has had a profound impact on our industry, from advancing legislation to creating housing opportunities and safeguarding property rights. We are proud to honor both Jeff and Sean with the ALTA Our Values Awards for their unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of so many."
Contact ALTA at 202-296-3671 or [email protected].