Message from the President

Hello Everyone,

As I write this, I realize it will be my final message to you as President of the California Escrow Association. It’s a little bittersweet. It took several years of preparation and commitment to step into this role, and I’m truly grateful that you believed in my ability to serve successfully. Throughout the year, I’ve done my best to keep you informed about our events and organizational progress—and what a challenging year it has been!

The good news is that CEA is now better positioned for 2026. We’ve streamlined many of our business processes and brought them under CEA’s direct ownership. Costs are down, and we’re leveraging technology more than ever before. We’re also exploring a new membership platform that will make navigation easier and offer enhanced options for our website. Expect more details on this potential transition early in 2026.

Looking back, my outlook for CEA has shifted dramatically. At the end of 2024, we faced the very real possibility of shutting down due to a shortage of volunteers and a funding crisis. Thanks to members who stepped up—and we still need more of you—we now have “more hands to make lighter work.” Please consider volunteering for a committee and staying active! Financially, we’re not out of the woods yet, but things are improving. While we won’t have the full picture until year-end, I’m optimistic that we’ll finish in the black—a big turnaround from the deficit we anticipated when approving the budget in February.

Your 2026 leadership team will continue driving progress with a focus on streamlined, technology-driven education and communication. Our three pillars—Education, Legislation, and Networking—remain at the heart of our mission. I’m excited to pass the reins to Elizabeth McGovern, your incoming President. Elizabeth brings a unique perspective as an escrow company owner with a business escrow portfolio, and her quick wit and insight will serve CEA well. Alongside your Executive Board and our management partners at Advantage AMC—Tracey and Brenda, who did a phenomenal job this year—I’m confident the organization will continue to thrive.

It has truly been an honor to serve as your 2025 President. You are an incredible group of hardworking settlement agents! Keep up the great work, and encourage a colleague to join us in 2026. Wishing you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Warm regards,

Sharon Strahlendorf

Your 2025 President

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