MEET MORE OF OUR 2025 WOMEN OF DISTINCTION
“Real estate changes lives. Not only those you serve, helping to obtain the American Dream and the opportunity to create generational wealth but the transition you realize as you witness the goals, dreams and joy that you helped accomplish” says Tamara Maddente. A member of the GMAR and Metro MLS senior advisor, Maddente is one of thousands of women who benefit from the mentorship and networking GMAR offers its real estate agents.
“The importance of being an active participant in trade associations cannot be underscored enough,” she says. “Not only do these organizations elevate professional standards, they also enhance consumer protection, advance industry-wide knowledge and, most important to me, drive community impact.”
GMAR Chairwoman Abby Hauke leads the organization’s efforts, advocating on behalf of the real estate profession, enforcing ethical standards, providing opportunities for agents and more. “The learning curve of this industry comes with real-life experience,” says Hauke. “Both personal and professional experiences are needed to allow you to be the most authentic, relatable and genuine leader.”
In 2023, about two-thirds of all Realtors were women, and their numbers have risen drastically over the past five decades. Hauke emphasizes the opportunities available for women to thrive in the industry, especially with support from their peers.
“If you approach it with heart, integrity and resilience, you’ll find that this career opens doors not only for your clients but for yourself, too,” says Theresa Dixon of the Wisconsin Real Estate Group. Dixon is a member of GMAR’s Veteran Service Committee, supporting veterans and providing resources to help them buy homes.
Every year, GMAR hosts WomenStrong, a conference that brings hundreds of women together to discuss issues affecting the industry and ways to take their career to the next level. For GMAR members like Tina Balaka, of Shorewest Realtors Greater Milwaukee Area, serving as a mentor and coach to agents is one of the joys of her career. “Surround yourself with other successful agents and be curious about what they have done,” she advises.
Judy Hearst, of Coldwell Banker Realty, feels similarly. “I’m proud to have built a career of achievement, not just through personal milestones, but by contributing to the local real estate industry and empowering others to realize their full potential.”
“If you bet on your own resilience and have a passion to serve others first, this is a space where women have the ability to rise, lead and thrive.”
– Abby Hauke
Q&A
What led you to your field?
Abby Hauke: A passion for teaching, as well as a natural interest and instincts in business.
Tammy Maddente: As I look back at my career, I realized I did not have a job: I answered a calling.
Theresa Dixon: Creating a home for my family deepened my appreciation for what ‘home’ means: a place of belonging, security, and pride.
Rose Bogosian: I grew up in the community I now serve, and real estate became a natural extension of my love for helping people find their place here.
Tina Balaka: The opportunity to be a part of a sales career with unlimited possibilities.
Tonya Thomsen: More control over my work schedule. I still work a lot of hours, but this career gives me the flexibility I need to be successful both at home and at work.
Judy Hearst: My father was a builder and developer. His experiences and market knowledge of developments in Southeast Wisconsin and Northern Illinois inspired me.
What advice do you have for women who want to pursue a career like yours?
Abby Hauke: This work is deeply rewarding but only if you’re willing to show up when it’s hard. If you’re able to bet on your own resilience and have a passion to serve others first, this is a space where women have the ability to rise, lead and thrive.
Tammy Maddente: The importance of being an active participant in your trade associations cannot be underscored. Not only do these organizations elevate professional standards, they also enhance consumer protection, advance industry wide knowledge and, most important to me, drive community impact.
Theresa Dixon: Have a strong support system in place. Many women say they are getting into the business because of the flexibility. It takes hard work and lots of hours to be available to multiple client schedules.
Rose Bogosian: Step into opportunities with confidence. Find mentors, get involved with your local associations, and never underestimate the power of collaboration.
Tina Balaka: Be prepared to put in the work to lay the foundation of your business and then keep building, learning and growing. Surround yourself with other successful agents and be curious about what they have done.
Tonya Thomsen: This is a ‘people business.’ It’s about serving, building trusting relationships, and helping people through their many stages of homeownership.
Judy Hearst: Balancing family and personal commitments with a fast-paced real estate market can be very frustrating.
