Jefferson L. Sherman

In 2020, the Appraisal Institute continued to support increased opportunities for minorities and women. “These initiatives are dedicated to promoting greater diversity within the real estate appraisal profession through direct outreach to interested individuals and financial assistance covering entry-level education and other support mechanisms,” Jefferson Sherman, MAI, AI-GRS, and 2020 president of the Appraisal Institute, told RISMedia.

The Institute is also taking steps to address alleged bias in valuation. “Credible, reliable opinions of value are fundamental to economic security for lenders, buyers, sellers and property owners together with other stakeholders in property tax, income tax and eminent domain,” Sherman told RISMedia. “Our work must remain impartial, objective and independent.”

Sherman has held several other leadership roles with the Appraisal Institute. He has taught courses for the Institute since 1992 and is also principal of Sherman Valuation & Review, LLC.