Ryan Zink, MAI, Moderates University Panel at Appraisal Institute Real Estate Forum

LAKE MARY, Fla. (Oct. 24, 2025) — Valtrust represented the firm at the 2025 Appraisal Institute Central Florida Real Estate Forum, an annual gathering of valuation professionals, educators and students focused on Florida real estate trends and industry advancement.

Hosted at the Westin Lake Mary, the forum drew appraisers, developers, brokers and university leaders from across the state. Sessions covered market performance, land use, taxation, economic development and the evolving role of valuation professionals in a fast-changing market. This event typically has between 200 and 300 attendees each year.  

Valtrust Senior Managing Director Ryan L. Zink, MAI, served as moderator of the University Panel, which brought together directors from five major university programs: Yvonne Baker of Florida State University; Tim Becker, Ph.D. of the University of Florida; David Harrison, Ph.D. of the University of Central Florida; Shelton Weeks, Ph.D. of Florida Gulf Coast University; and Randy Anderson, Ph.D. of the University of South Florida. Ten real estate students from four universities attended the event with grant funding from the Appraisal Institute Education and Relief Foundation (AIERF). 

“Engaging with university leaders and students is one of the best ways to ensure our industry continues to grow in both skill and professionalism,” Zink said. “These programs are developing talented individuals who will soon play pivotal roles in shaping real estate and valuation across Florida and beyond.”

The Appraisal Institute is the leading professional association for real estate appraisers, providing education, credentialing and advocacy while promoting ethical standards and advancing diversity within the profession.

For more information about Valtrust’s industry engagement and professional development, visit valtrust.com.