An important part of the Coalition's purpose is to support the maintenance and improvement of the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice and to promote public trust and confidence in our profession. One of the ways we accomplish this is by engaging experienced and knowledgeable thought leaders and educators who not only support the need to maintain credential holder compliance with fulfilling standard continuing educational requirements, but who propel us on a forward-thinking path with diverse perspectives, insight, and new information in our ever-changing profession.
A testament to the traditional pathway into the appraisal profession (the supervisor/trainee model) is the value that is gained by learning from others, and so, we also host opportunities that foster an environment where learning can take place among peers in the profession. We welcome anyone who is ready to engage, learn, and be part of effecting meaningful advancement and change that supports and protects all appraisers.
Meet Our Education Committee Co-Chairs
Anthony (Tony) Blackburn is a residential real estate appraiser in the San Juan Islands area. He's had an incredible career, spanning many different roles since he first began his appraising journey four decades ago. Tony has served as a Director on the Coalition's Board of Directors since 2023 and in that time, he has brought fresh ideas, new connections to instructors, and set the course of trajectory for successful impact as our Education Committee Chair.
Fun Fact: Tony was one of the first appraisers to be licensed in the state of California, when licensing first went into effect.
Here's a message from Tony:
"At this stage of my career, I consider it a privilege to share my knowledge, experience, and time through service on this committee, and I'm honored to serve as Education Co-Chair. I bring a wide and varied background to this role—from being a true “boots-on-the-ground” appraiser, to working in a small appraisal office, to owning a local appraisal firm that grew into a regional company, and ultimately an AMC. I've recently come full circle and am working independently as an appraiser again. The Coalition plays a vital role in our appraisal industry, and I’m proud to contribute and serve in this capacity."
Anne Olsen-Harlan has over 30 years of residential appraisal experience and for the past 14 years, she has served as the Residential Appraisal Manager and Vice President at Washington Trust Bank. Anne brings a wealth of experience to her role as Director on our Board of Directors and she has just joined the Education Committee as Co-Chair in 2026. Anne is a passionate, life-long learner, and strong advocate for appraisers. One of her primary focuses has been on helping appraisers navigate changes in our ever-evolving industry, so she is perfect for the role of Co-Chair.
