07/30/2025
11 am PT / 12 pm MT / 1 pm CT / 2 pm ET
*approximate length: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Presenters:
Ted Thurn, Senior Director, Government Affairs, IREM
Hillary Vrba, Government Affairs Liaison, IREM
As a new member to IREM, we would like to cordially invite you to an engaging and informative webinar designed specifically for new members! This webinar orientation will introduce you to the core principles of advocacy, our mission, and how your voice can help drive real change. You’ll learn about key issues we’re working on, discover ways to get involved, and connect with fellow advocates who share your passion.
Join us and take the first step in your advocacy journey!
Learning Objectives:
- Overview of our advocacy mission, goals, and policy positions
- Current initiatives and how you can contribute
- Tips for engaging with policymakers and your community
- Q&A with experienced advocates and staff

Ted Thurn is IREM’s Senior Director of Government Affairs.
Ted Thurn has worked in the association field for over 20 years. During his time in government affairs, Ted has led all aspects of federal and state legislative advocacy efforts and has served as a key advisor on emerging federal and state legislative agendas. At IREM, Ted is responsible for a number of government affairs initiatives and provides strategic support and recommendation of actions to executive leadership.
Ted holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Saint Xavier University and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from DePaul University.

Hillary Vrba is IREM’s Government Affairs Liaison, Government Affairs
Hillary Vrba is IREM’s Government Affairs Liaison and is responsible for supporting the Senior Director in the successful execution of all advocacy-based initiatives and chapter services. Before joining the IREM team, Hillary worked in constituent services for an Illinois state Senator and as a senior staff member on several political campaigns.
Hillary has a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from Purdue University and a Master of Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University.