Debra S. "Deb" Junkin has been named CEO of the Georgia Association of Realtors after beating out 55 other applicants for the position.

A former Association Executive for the East Metro Board of Realtors in Covington, Junkin took over Jan. 1. She has served as the GAR’s Director of Administration for the past year.

"I am excited and honored to have the opportunity to lead GAR into 2010 and beyond," said Junkin. "Through collaboration with the association leadership and staff, we will focus on implementing the directives of our strategic plan while growing the association’s assets, enhancing the member value proposition and expanding the association’s sphere of influence.

"The Realtor Association is unique in the three-tiered service model utilized at the national, state and local associations to serve the needs of the members. Through active partnering and sharing of resources between all three tiers, our goal is to provide support for the local associations that will result in additional benefits for the membership across the state."

Junkin received a Strategies in Non-Profit Management Certificate from the University of Chicago and the Realtor Association Certified Executive (RCE) designation from the National Association of Realtors. She will complete coursework for Duke University’s Non-Profit Management Program in March.