Tom Canning of Comey & Shepherd as recently honored at the 2024 Circle of Excellence event for achieving 50 consecutive years in the Circle of Excellence, a milestone that reflects his decades of dedication, perseverance, and success in the real estate industry. During the event, he delivered a heartfelt speech, sharing his journey, challenges, and gratitude for the people who have supported him along the way.
Below is his full speech:
When I was first to receive my 25-year award, I was asked to say a few words. I wasn’t prepared, so I said a few words!
I must admit, I’m a bit humbled to be standing here before you today. I became licensed in 1971 with nothing but hard work, determination, and the support of my family and friends. Those were the only tools I had—along with a pocket full of dimes for phone booths. I grew up on the other side of the tracks, with eight brothers and sisters and a learning disability to boot. To help with family expenses, the boys all caddied at Clovernook Country Club. Heck, I even caddied for Scott Olyer’s grandfather and his partner, Bill Parchman, a.k.a. P&O Realtors.
I never imagined I’d be standing here, celebrating 50 consecutive years in the Circle of Excellence. But I will tell you—it was my career goal!
This accomplishment is not just mine; it’s a reflection of the people who supported me along the way—my family, my clients, my colleagues, and everyone who trusted me throughout the years. I may be the first, but it’s not about being first—it’s about showing up every day, giving your best, and helping people with their real estate needs. In my mind, my clients have always come first.
There are many success stories in this room. I belong to an industry filled with so many talented and driven individuals. While I’m not the most successful, I am proud to be part of this incredible Alliance community and the Circle of Excellence!
As I reflect on these 54 years (yes, it took me four years to qualify for the Club), I am reminded that success is built on the foundation of hard work, honesty, and dedication. I hope my story can inspire others—especially those who may not come from privilege—to believe that anything is possible in this great country of ours with persistence and a positive attitude.
Over the years, I often said that someday this business would be “the death of me,” but I want you to know that there were 98 recipients the first year I qualified in 1975, and I’m the only agent still in the business. Most of the others are gone. I truly am the last man standing! I sold 41 houses that year and earned $21,000—barely qualifying for what was then called The Million Dollar Club. Today, it’s not unusual to make that much on one deal!
It has been my honor and privilege to be married to Sharon Canning for 51 years. She worked alongside me every day and survived three bouts of cancer—two of which were breast cancer. She’s my rock, inspiration, and motivator! When times were tight over the years, she would kick me out of the house and say, ‘Just go sell another house!’ I truly am a lucky guy! Thank you, and I love you, Shar!
A special thanks to Julie, who became a Realtor right after graduating college and is celebrating her 26th year in business. She has been with me through all the ups and downs. Many of you know Julie—she’s well-liked in the business.
Our other daughter, Amy, is a senior researcher at Children’s Hospital and helps us on weekends. She is also here today.
And a big thank you to Christian Salazar, our other team member, who speaks four languages but can’t read thank-you notes from clients when written in cursive. He’s a Millennial!
I also need to thank my mother, who got her real estate license in the 1950s while raising nine kids and encouraged my brother Ron and me to pursue real estate careers. We did, and the rest is history. Ron recently retired—many of you knew him. He may have even taught you real estate courses! At one time, he was National President of the CRS Council.
And… thank you to the Alliance for this recognition and to everyone here who has been part of my journey.
A big thank you to the Comey & Shepherd Wolfer family, our VP of Sales Karen Schlosser, our Manager Lauren Brann, my associates, and the incredible staff at the Comey & Shepherd Symmes office. I’ve been associated with this wonderful group for 33 years!
I am incredibly grateful and would love to do another 25 years—but I’m sure this business will be the death of me before I turn 103!
Most importantly, I want to thank God, my Creator, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and my Guardian Angel for my professional ability and for protecting me throughout the years. I’ve had a number of close calls, and I am, and will always be, eternally grateful.
God bless all of you here today! Thank you again!
This incredible milestone is a testament to Tom’s dedication, perseverance, and the relationships he has built over the years. His story serves as an inspiration to both new and seasoned real estate professionals.