KEN WRIGHT
Realtor®/Developer
Local Native, Military Veteran, and Real Estate Professional
Ken Wright Jr is a name synonymous with commitment, service, and excellence. A native of Niceville, Florida, Ken's journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his community and the pursuit of excellence in every facet of his life.
Military Service and Leadership
After graduating from Niceville High School in 1978, Ken embarked on a diverse and illustrious career. He spent several years in the construction business before enlisting in the United States Coast Guard, where he would serve for over 22 years. His remarkable journey in the Coast Guard saw him rise from the enlisted ranks to a commissioned warrant officer. Throughout his service, Ken undertook a range of assignments, including Search and Rescue, drug interdiction, migrant interdiction, and aids to navigation, both in the United States and the Caribbean waters.
Ken's exceptional leadership and strategic insight extended to managing the Military Civil Rights Program for over 350 command personnel. Additionally, he supervised Administrative Programs, which included Housing, Pay, Medical, and Training programs for approximately 400 Military Personnel and 18 Coast Guard Units in the Key West region. Due to Ken's remarkable leadership and strategic vision his role extended to the Director of Military Housing Programs for the entire Southeastern United States. Here, he oversaw the well-being of over 3,500 military personnel and over 12,000 dependents across five states, earning him the prestigious U.S. Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medal, among many other accolades. His extensive list of honors includes (1) U.S. Coast Guard Meritorious Service Medal, (2) U.S. Coast Guard Commendation Medals, (2) U.S. Coast Guard Achievement Medals, (2) Special Operations Service Medals, (1) Humanitarian Service Medal, (1) CG Meritorious Team Commendation Ribbon, (5) CG Unit Commendation Ribbons, (5) CG Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbons, (1) CG Bicentennial Unit Commendation Ribbon plus many more awards and ribbons.
Real Estate Expertise and Development
After completing his remarkable U.S. Coast Guard career, Ken returned to his hometown of Niceville, Florida, and embarked on a successful career in real estate. He was a driving force in the creation and ownership of Turkey Creek Realty, where he served as Vice President. His real estate journey then led him to join forces with a former Coast Guard shipmate, the Broker/Owner of RE/MAX Southern Realty.
As Ken's real estate journey evolved, he later transferred his real estate license to Keller Williams Realty Emerald Coast, Coldwell Banker Realty, and eventually to Century 21 Blue Marlin Pelican back in his hometown of Niceville, FL, seizing an opportunity to expand his business. Ken's versatile role as a Realtor® extends to real estate development. He owns and manages various properties in the area and contributes to the development of multiple real estate projects, enhancing the local landscape.
Community Involvement and Volunteerism
Ken Wright's service extends far beyond his professional life. He is a committed volunteer, dedicating countless hours to his community. Notable among his many roles is his involvement with the Gary Sinise R.I.S.E (Restoring Independence Supporting Empowerment) Program since 2016. He has been instrumental in helping several wounded warriors receive specially adaptive smart homes. These 100% mortgage-free homes ease the daily challenges faced by these heroes and their families who sacrifice alongside them.
Ken also served as President (2011-2012) and Vice President (2008-2010) of the Northwest Florida Military Officers Association. He played a pivotal role as a board member on the Crestview Military Appreciation and Recognition Celebration Committee, organizing annual events to honor past and present military personnel. Ken was an Executive Board Member for the Distinguished Young Women of Florida, a scholarship program for high school juniors. He is also one of the Founding Board Members for the Morgan Invitational Golf Classic since 1986, providing scholarships to high school students. Ken has served as a board member for the American Marine Institute (AMI Kids), the Builder’s Industry Association of Okaloosa/Walton County, Supervisor for Heritage Plantation Community Development District, Supervisor for the Freedom Walk Development District, and an active participant in various committees within local Chambers of Commerce and the Emerald Coast Association of Realtors.
In November 2010, Ken spearheaded the dedication ceremony for the Petty Officer Lonnie Jones Memorial Project at the Coast Guard Station Destin, honoring a fallen Coast Guard shipmate who lost his life in a search and rescue mission in the waters of the Destin Pass.
Personal Life
Beyond his professional and community commitments, Ken Wright is a family man. He is married to the former Ms. Erica Knapp and is a loving father to two children, Drew Wright and Madison Knapp.
Ken's journey is a shining example of dedication, leadership, and selfless service. Whether in the military, the real estate industry, or his community, Ken's impact is felt far and wide. His unwavering commitment to the betterment of his community and the well-being of those around him serves as an inspiration to all who have the privilege of knowing him.
ERICA WRIGHT
Director of Marketing & Operations
Erica Wright is a dynamic force in the world of marketing and operations, with a career journey that reflects her unwavering commitment to excellence and a deep passion for helping others.
Background and Career: Erica's career took root in the Mortgage Industry back in 2001, where she embarked as an assistant and quickly ascended through the ranks, to loan assistant, area assistant, eventually becoming an accomplished mortgage loan officer. Her dedication and marketing prowess led to the successful introduction and promotion of numerous mortgage companies throughout the Panhandle of Florida. It was during this time that she cultivated a deep understanding of business, marketing, and the significance of effective communication with the people she aimed to assist.
In 2010, Erica made a significant career transition to follow her true passion, real estate marketing. Drawing on her wealth of experience, she began utilizing her skills and knowledge to create cutting-edge websites, creative social media campaigns, compelling listing presentations, and expertly managed lead follow-up processes. Her commitment to the daily operations of her business is unwavering. Erica remains at the forefront of the industry, continually leveraging the latest marketing resources and staying updated with the ever-evolving real estate landscape.
Personal Journey: Erica's journey has taken her from her birthplace in Panama City, FL to Alabama in 1992, but her heart always longed for the beauty of the Emerald Coast. Settling in the Panhandle of Florida since 2005, she has truly found her home.
Beyond her professional life, Erica is a person of diverse interests. She finds solace and inspiration in the arts through her love of painting and enjoys the wisdom and adventure found in the pages of books. Her active lifestyle includes running and yoga, which help her stay balanced and motivated.
Community Involvement: Erica is not only dedicated to her career but also to giving back to her community. Over the years, she has volunteered extensively, serving as a Board Member for Shelter House and as the Board Chairman for AMI Kids, a school for troubled youth. She's also been an Ambassador and membership committee member for the Niceville Chamber of Commerce, as well as a former membership committee member for the Women’s Council of Realtors. She also dedicated her time to the Military Appreciation Recognition Celebration as well as the Northwest Florida’s Military Officers Association.
Erica's benevolence extends to many non-profit organizations, including the Morgan Invitational Golf Classic, Distinguished Young Women of Florida, Salvation Army Angel Tree, Gary Sinise Foundation, and various local Chambers.
Family Life: Erica is happily married to Ken Wright and is the proud parent of an 18-year-old daughter who recently joined the U.S. Coast Guard. The cherry on top of this wonderful family is their playful, talkative, White Siberian Husky, affectionately known as "Kiva the Diva," who keeps their lives fun and always entertaining.
In Erica Wright, you'll find a dynamic leader, a compassionate community advocate, and a multi-talented individual who brings boundless creativity and dedication to every endeavor she undertakes. Her journey continues to inspire and shape the world of real estate and marketing.
DEE SUFNAR
Realtor®
Personal Background: Dee Sufnar hails from Phoenix, New York, nestled in upstate NY. Her early life was shaped by the dedication of her parents; her father served as a Fire Fighter Veteran for an impressive 52 years, and her mother retired from General Electric (GE) after a remarkable 47 years of service. Dee graduated from Phoenix High School in 1981 and dedicated her time to volunteer work for organizations such as the Phoenix VFW, Phoenix Fire Department, and KE Society (High School sorority).
Career Path: With a strong foundation in education, Dee graduated from Tompkins Cortland Community College in 1985 with an AAS in Business. While pursuing her education, she was employed at Morse Chain Manufacture in Ithaca, NY. Her journey then led her to Charleston, SC in 1985, where she found employment at Motorola Service Center from 1986 to 1989, holding the role of Inventory Controller. It was in 1986 at Charleston Air Force Base where she met her husband, embarking on her path as a military spouse in 1988. The couple was stationed in Germany from 1988 to 1993, and during this time, Dee worked for AAFES as a Labor Management System Manager from 1989 to 1997.
In 1993, Dee and her family relocated to Edwards AFB and later to EGLIN AFB in 1997, where they have remained to this day. In 2003, she began her Real Estate career, starting as a receptionist and swiftly progressing to an assistant property manager within a year. She earned her Real Estate License in 2005 and has achieved several designations such as the Florida Military Relocation Specialist, Certified Property Manager, and At Home with Diversity.
Awards and Recognitions: Throughout her real estate career, Dee has garnered numerous awards and accolades, including the $2 Million Club Award, Bronze Certificate of Achievement, Silver Circle Award, Top Agent of the Year, Performance Plus, Outstanding Performance, and Distinguished Service awards, among others.
Volunteer Contributions: Dee's commitment to community service is equally remarkable. She is involved in multiple committees, including the ECAR Bowling Committee for Building Homes for Heroes, ECAR Commercial Committee, ECAR MLS Committee, and ECAR MLS Tour Committee. From 2020 to 2022, she served on the Community Outreach Committee of ECAR and as the Commercial Director on the Board of Directors of ECAR. Furthermore, she contributed her expertise to the Governing Board of Gulf Coast Community MLS from 2020 to 2022.
Dee is a lifetime VFW Auxiliary Member and has dedicated her time to various soccer-related activities and committees from 1997 to 2013. She volunteered for OVAL ART at Shalimar Elementary School, served as a Cub Scouts Leader and Girl Scouts Leader from 1998 to 2004, and was a Girls Scout Leader from 1989 to 1991 in Germany. Additionally, she took on the role of Sports Reporter for the Cal City Softball season in the Mojave Desert News from 1994 to 1997 and served as an AAFES Community Correspondent during the same period.
Family Life: Dee is married to Michael Sufnar, and together, they form a close-knit and loving family. They are proud parents to two children, Aaron and Amber Sufnar, and doting grandparents to two baby girls, Adelynn and Gwendolyn. Their family is completed by a cherished golden retriever, Chester. Dee's life story exemplifies her unwavering commitment to both her thriving professional career and her vibrant local community, alongside a rich and fulfilling family life.
Dee Sufnar’s journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment, exceptional work ethic, and dedication to both her profession and her community. Her achievements and contributions make her a Realtor who stands out as a shining example of excellence and service.
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